Winters are here and so are the problems related to this season. Sinusitis is one of the disorders which brings extreme discomfort and painful symptoms. But before, knowing the right treatment one must understand what actually the disease is ?

So, the following sections will cover the topics related to Sinusitis and how Ayurveda helps in overcoming the disorder.

What are sinuses?

The sinuses are the air pockets or the air sacs which are present in the skull. These are present behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheekbones, and eyes.

  1. Usually, the sinuses are free from the germ, bacteria, viruses, and other foreign pathogens. The main functions of the sinuses are mentioned below:
  2. It lightens the weight of the skull as the spaces help decrease the skull's mass.
  3. It humidifies and maintains the temperature of the inhaled air.
  4. The resonance of speech is also enhanced with the help of these sinuses.

More importantly, they serve as a crumple zone, meaning they help with the protection of vital structures in case of facial trauma.

What is Sinusitis?

It means inflammation. So, sinusitis clearly means when there is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses. When the sinuses are blocked, the fluid is filled within them. The main cause is cold and allergies.

Triggers of sinusitis:

  1. Intake of excess food items which are dry, oily, spicy, and too cold.
  2. Exposure to dry, dusty and cold weather.
  3. Recurrent respiratory disorders.
  4. Nasal polyps and a deviated septum can also sometimes be the reason for blocked sinuses.
  5. Pollen, dust, and pet dander allergies.

Why does it trigger in winter?

Colds: The flu viruses and the cold viruses are common in the months of the winter season. These viruses attack the nasal passage membranes which cause inflammation and blockage leading to sinusitis.

Dry air: The winters possess dry weather which causes the mucus linings to dry out. This increases the risk of congestion and infections.

Indoor heating: Electric heaters can worsen the symptoms of sinusitis, the air becomes dry in the presence of heaters which becomes another causative factor.

Ayurveda perspective of sinusitis

The Ayurvedic term for sinusitis is ‘Pinas’.The nasal cavity is referred to as shirodwar. When any kind of obstruction occurs it results in sinusitis.

The imbalance of tridoshas (Vata Dosha, Pitta Dosha, Kapha Dosha) is responsible for sinusitis.

The main responsible Dosha is Kapha Dosha as the aggravation blocks the passage of Vata (air) in the nasal region.

When there is imbalanced Pitta Dosha it results in inflammation (shoth) and irritation in the nasal cavity region. The tissues and inner lining of the sinuses are affected the most. 

Ayurvedic treatment for sinus is considered the safest as with all the natural ways, Ayurveda delivers the best and most effective result.

Ayurvedic treatment for sinusitis

Ayurvedic treatment is a holistic way that combines the usage of herbs, and dietary and lifestyle changes to heal the disorders. The herbs are derived from nature and give no side effects and heal the body wonderfully!

Herbs for Sinusitis

Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

It is referred to as ardrakam/shuntha in the Sanskrit language. Ayurveda considers it as vishwabhesaj, which means universal medicine.

Ginger is considered the most sattvic of the species and herb. Sattvic must be understood as something which is infused with clarity, compassion, wisdom, lightness, and intelligence. This herb is combined with other herbs and is used perfectly for sinusitis treatment in ayurveda.

Consumption of ginger helps in balancing the Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha. It may also elevate the level of low Pitta Dosha. It helps wonderfully in treating sinusitis problems. As it helps with Agni and strong digestion results in boosting the immune system which means more Ojas. This will eventually help with more strength, vigor, and energy.

Mode of consumption:

  • Ginger tea reduces inflammation as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Add ginger to the tea to help the body with sinusitis symptoms.
  • Dried ginger can also be used to find relief from congestion, nasal blockage, and headache. The powder can be consumed as well.
  • The third way is by sauteing the vegetable with raw ginger or consuming raw ginger which will benefit in ayurvedic treatment for sinusitis.
  • The ginger can be grated to extract its juice and honey can be added to the juice.

Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn:

Holy basil is antitussive in nature which means it helps in reducing the cough. It highly helps with expelling phlegm from the chest (expectorant) and strengthens the immune system.

Additionally, with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, tulsi helps in fighting off infections.

Not only tulsi has high sattva it also helps in maintaining the normal body temperature which is referred to as prabhava in Ayurveda. It has a strong heating virya (energy) and balances the Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha not only in the lungs but in the head and nerves too.

Mode of consumption:

  • You can have raw leaves daily. They can be washed and simply put inside the mouth. Do not chew them as they contain mercury which might degrade the tooth enamel.
  • Tulsi tea also helps a lot with sinusitis symptoms. So along with ginger, clove and other herbs tulsi can be added which will help in the ayurvedic treatment of sinusitis
  • Tulsi powder and supplements are also available in the market. You can also add the tulsi leaves to water and take steam.
  • Decoction of tulsi leaves can also be prepared by adding honey, ginger, cloves, and cow’s ghee to relieve sinusitis's discomforting symptoms.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra):

In the Sanskrit language, licorice is called yasthimadhu and commonly called mulethi in households. It means sweet stick.

This herb is best for balancing the Kapha Dosha and Vata Dosha.  It also has Sattvic quality, which calms the mind and soothes the nervous system.

The taste (Rasa) of this herb is sweet which is referred to as madhura. It acts as a decongestant which clears the blockages and drains the sinuses. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-viral properties which not only prevent bacterial, and viral infections but also put a great fight to the symptoms of sinusitis.

Due to its sheetal (cooling) virya (action) it increases Kapha Dosha when taken in large quantities. So, before consuming consult the Ayurvedic expert for the right dosage.

This stands for all the herbs as Ayurvedic practitioners will analyze the Prakriti of the patient before prescribing the dosage and the right herb which is suitable for the respective health condition.

Mode of consumption:

  • Mulethi sticks can be chewed upon as they will help with bacterial, viral, and other related infections. The lozenges can be sucked for finding relief from sore throat.
  • Mulethi tea can also be prepared by adding ginger and tulsi to it. It will help with the blockages and will provide relief from the headache.
  • A decoction can also be prepared of licorice root. Add the root into boiling water and strain it after 10-15 mins of boiling.
  • The licorice tablets and capsules can also be consumed.
  • The licorice powder can be used by mixing it with water and milk. Adding cow’s ghee will help immensely help with sinusitis symptoms.

For the quick, right, and effective Sinusitis Treatment in Ayurveda, one must ensure he/she consults the experts, it is okay to take the herbs, but the tridoshas are well analyzed by the doctors. So, take care of your health and your loved ones with Ayurveda.