Sinusitis that recurrent and troublesome to make the sufferer look for-search various solutions to overcome this, including use herbal medicines. But in fact, effectivenessMost of the sinusitis herbal remedies have not been medically proven.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the walls of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities behind the cheekbones and forehead. Viral and bacterial infections are the two main factors that can cause this condition.
The main treatment for sinusitis is medical treatment, both surgical and non-surgical. Treatment of nonsurgical sinusitis usually consists of medical drugs and supportive therapy. Mild sinusitis can be treated with decongestants or pain relievers, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, if sinusitis causes headaches or facial pain.
If sinusitis does not improve within a few weeks, you will need a prescription antibiotic. And if sinusitis symptoms don't improve or get worse with regular treatment, you may need surgery or surgery. An ENT specialist will determine the type of treatment that suits your condition.
Sinusitis Herbal Medicine
Several recent studies have shown that there are several types of herbal remedies that can help relieve sinusitis symptoms. Sinusitis herbal remedies can be categorized as supportive therapy to relieve symptoms that arise, such as nasal congestion or coughing. Some sinusitis herbal remedies that are believed to be able to overcome these symptoms, namely:
- Ginger
This herbal plant which is known for its spicy taste has properties as an antimicrobial, antiseptic, pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, and nausea reliever. Consuming warm tea mixed with ginger can help relieve respiratory tract and nasal congestion due to colds and sinusitis. However, the benefits of ginger as a sinusitis herbal remedy are still not supported by accurate scientific facts.
- Pineapple
There are also some people who use bromelain, which is a protein found in pineapple stems to relieve swelling in the respiratory tract, help suppress coughs, and loosen mucus in the throat. Bromelain is believed to have properties for treating sinusitis. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support this assumption. In addition, the ingredients available in this supplement form can cause interactions with drugs that are currently being consumed.
- Honey
Honey is believed to be effective in overcoming a sore throat which is usually also experienced by sinusitis sufferers. According to a study, honey can relieve coughs more effectively than medicines containing dextromethorphan (DMP).
- Sambiloto
Latin name plant Andrographis paniculata This is believed to be useful as a sinusitis herbal remedy. The content of substances that are antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory in bitter, is thought to be able to help relieve the respiratory tract and relieve symptoms of sinusitis. However, research on the effects of sambiloto as a remedy for sinusitis is still limited to laboratory studies and has not been clinically tested.
But keep in mind, these various sinusitis herbal remedies can only relieve the symptoms and have not been scientifically proven to cure sinusitis. You still need medical care for treatment.
Treating Sinusitis at Home
If sinusitis herbal medicine is not reliable, then how effective can it be done? In addition to seeing a doctor and getting the right treatment, here are ways that can be done independently.
- Sufficient fluid needs
Drink enough fluids, such as juices and mineral water, to help meet the body's fluid needs and thin mucus. However, avoid consuming alcoholic beverages and caffeine because they risk causing dehydration and exacerbating swelling of the walls of the nose and sinuses.
- Rest
Get enough rest to speed up recovery and help the body fight inflammation.
- Maintain moisture
Keep the sinus cavities moist to relieve pain and reduce mucus, including soaking in warm water, or inhaling steam from a bowl full of warm water while placing a towel over your head. You can also place a warm compress on your face to relieve pain.
- Raise your head
Another way to help relieve sinusitis symptoms is to sleep with an extra pillow so that the head is slightly elevated, to relieve pain. This method can help improve circulation and flow of mucus in the sinuses.
- Rinsing nose
Rinse the nose using a special bottle called nasal lavage. If you want to do a nose rinse yourself, make sure the water you use is completely free of contamination. You can make a nasal rinse solution by mixing 4 cups of clean water plus 1 teaspoon of baking soda and salt. Stir, then rinse your nose with the solution.
- Using drugs
Pain relievers, such as paracetamol, can be taken to relieve fever and pain. However, avoid giving aspirin to children under 16 years of age. You can also use over-the-counter nasal sprays or drops to clear your airways.
One more thing to remember, avoid taking too many over-the-counter medicines before consulting a doctor, because there is a risk of causing symptoms to worsen.
How to Prevent Sinusitis
There are several things you can do every day to prevent sinusitis, including:
- Check with your ENT doctor regularly, especially if you have allergies.
- Upper respiratory tract infections will cause a recurrence of sinusitis. As much as possible minimize contact with patients
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and handling food.
- As much as possible make your room as soft as possible
- Avoid air pollution and cigarette smoke which can cause irritation to the lungs and respiratory tract.
Some of the symptoms of sinusitis can indeed be treated at home. But sometimes, sinusitis symptoms can become more severe and last longer than they should. Immediately consult a doctor if this condition occurs.