Sinusitis: Sniffing Out a Cure

Best Single Herb: Thyme

Best Combinations: Fenugreek, thyme; burdock, golden seal, parsley, althea, ephedra, capsicum, horehound, yerba santa; bee pollen; bayberry

Other Helpful Supplements: Vitamin A or beta carotene; vitamin C; pantothenic acid

Possible Causes: Old catarrh; lowered immune system; body trying to cleanse old bacteria

Complementary Help: Cleanse bowel; take golden seal “snuff”; avoid dairy and sugar; use self-help with reflexology, squeeze the toes and fingers firmly

Sinusitis is the inflammation of the sinus passages. Symptoms include headache, clogged nose, inability to breathe through the nose, pressure in the sinuses, a runny or dripping nose, and post nasal drip, causing an irritated throat.

Sinusitis is usually caused by an allergy, which causes the sinuses to react by sneezing and producing mucus. The allergy can then lead to a localized infection, causing more irritation to the sinus passages that can then be called sinusitis. Make sure you boost your immune system when dealing with sinusitis, and be sure to read the post “Allergies Bee Gone,” for more. Until then, you can use a little thyme to clear your head. Let’s talk about the best use of thyme next.

Thyme for a Solution

Thyme (pronounced time) (Thymus vulgaris) is an excellent herb that has been used in a variety of herbal combinations for boosting the immune system. This herb has been especially helpful in ailments of the respiratory system (sinuses, lungs, and bronchials). Thyme is used as a spice in soups, stews, chili, and other foods and helps you digest fats. This herb is not recommended in high doses for pregnant women, but having some as a spice in your food should be safe for you. A little bit is also an excellent and safe remedy for children with colds and the flu.

Warnings about the use of herbs

Thyme should not be taken in large doses if you are pregnant Also, it is better to acquire your thyme from a reputable manufacturer because picking your own can be dangerous — the different species of thyme can vary in potency by 10,000 times.

I have seen fenugreek and thyme stop a runny nose within 20 minutes after ingestion, so thyme’s anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties might be just the thing your body needs to kill off your sinus infection. Don’t be surprised, however, if you experience a temporary increase in mucus leaving your sinus cavities or lungs; thyme is an expectorant and will help your body rid itself of excess mucus through the lungs. Thyme may also be useful for combating shingles because it helps boost the immune system.

Herb Lore: information related to holistic health

Thyme is interesting in that its effects will change depending on how much you take. For example, taking tiny amounts of the herb will create a sedating effect and can relax you and help you get the rest you need when you are sick. However, larger doses act as a stimulant and may make you feel more energetic to pull you through the day. Thyme has also been used for bronchitis, colds, colic, digestion, fevers, gas, hysteria, infections, menstrual cramps, nightmares, skin conditions, toothaches, and whooping cough.

Sinus Up for More Herbs

Other herbs useful to the respiratory system and sinuses include golden seal, yerba santa, and ephedra. See the table at the end of this chapter for a good combination of herbs and some vitamins that will aid your recovery.

When suffering from a sinus infection, stop eating or drinking products that create more mucus in your body. Eliminate wheat, dairy, and sugar while fighting your infection, and avoid any foods that cause mucus for you. Also, bowel cleansing can help eliminate respiratory congestion — see the post “Constipation: All Dressed Up and Nowhere to Go” for a great cleansing drink.

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