Sinusitis is an inflammatory condition caused by a viral or bacterial infection or a triggering allergen affecting the lining of the sinuses and presenting as a blocked or runny nose. Ancillary symptoms can include high temperature, headache  and facial pain.

Sinusitis is often considered either acute or chronic. Acute develops quickly over a period of a few days and clears within weeks. Chronic can persist for several months.

We each have four pairs of sinuses, one behind the forehead, one behind the eyes, one behind the cheekbones and one at either side of the bridge of the nose. The largest ones, those behind the cheekbones, are most commonly affected.

Herbal support – Sinusitis is an inflammatory condition so while antihistamines tackle the allergic reaction, try basil, rosemary, parsley, St John’s wort or mint to take down the swelling. In my book Natural Cures for common ailments I also include decongesting herbs ( pages 60–1)

Kitchen support – Both wasabi and horseradish are traditional remedies for sinus problems but their teary-eyed strength can be a bit much for some. If so, try fruit – grapefruit helps reduce salt build-up in the body and so eases swelling, but it also naturally speeds up the elimination of thick mucus. Citrus fruits full of vitamin C tackle toxins and decrease inflammation reactions. Pineapples are packed with proteolytic enzymes that break down and neutralise bradykinins and eicosanoids – the biochemical building blocks of inflammation. Try a pineapple, mango and orange sorbet or smoothie.

Dairy, sugar and processed foods can prolong sinus inflammation so dietary changes around flare-ups can speed the healing process. Anti-inflammatory herbs include turmeric, cayenne, ginger, cloves, cinnamon, rosemary and sage.

Orange foods rich in vitamin A or beta-carotene help with the production of mucopolysaccharide, the vital protective barrier component of the mucous membranes.

A natural anti-inflammatory Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found primarily in primrose oil, borage oil and vegetable oils as well as some foods. It can help build immune responses diminished in sinitius suffers and also strengthen the nasal passages.

Other home treatment – the Saline Nasal Rinse

Ingredients

• Non-iodised salt

• Baking soda

• Still water

Method:

Stir 2 teaspoons of non-iodised salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda into 1 pint of distilled or sterile/post-boiled water. Decant to a sterilised bottle with lid and store at room temperature. Best used within two weeks. Shake well before use.

How to use: a bulb syringe or neti pot is helpful in the application of saline solution. Position yourself with your head over a sink and tilted to one side. Disperse or pour the saline solution directly into the top nostril – the angle of your head will allow the solution to pass through your nasal cavity and run out the other nostril.

Some will go down the back of your throat – you can spit that out. Now gently blow your nose to clear the nasal passages of solution and any loosened catarrh. Tilt your head in the opposite direction and apply to the other nostril.

for more tips and tricks try https://www.mercierpress.ie/irish-books/the-holistic-gardener-natural-cures-for-common-ailments/