Draining Sinuses

The human skull comprises holes which are known as sinuses. Though the head has various sinuses, the largest among them are the maxillary sinuses and the frontal sinuses. The maxillary sinuses are those that are present inside the cheekbones and the frontal sinuses are the ones which are present just above the eyes. These sinuses are lined with cells or membranes which secrete mucus to protect the respiratory system from dust, germs, etc. This mucus is then drained through the sinus openings. However, sometimes, the sinuses become inflamed because of cold or due to allergies caused by pollen, dust, cigarette smoke, pet dander, rug shampoo and some other outdoor air pollutants.

Sometimes, excessive dryness in the environment can also cause the inflammation of the sinuses. When this happens, the sinuses are not able to drain the mucous and they become clogged. This condition is called sinus infection or sinusitis and cause symptoms like nasal congestion, sinus headache, post nasal drip, etc. The best way of curing this problem is by sinus drainage. Here are some methods being mentioned for treating sinus infection.

Sinus Drainage Method

One of the methods which is used by health practitioners for sinus draining or treating sinusitis is the surgical method. Though this surgery is very effective and does not cause any complications, it is a good idea to try some home remedies for sinus drainage first. As these natural methods do not have any side effects, you are not going to lose anything by trying them. Hence, take a look at some of the natural ways to drain sinuses.

Steam Treatment
The oldest and the best sinus infection home remedy is the steam method. For this, you have to boil water in a large vessel or kettle. When the water reaches boiling point, take it off the stove and pour it in a large bowl. Take a large bath towel and wrap it on your head. In the same position, go near the bowl of hot water and inhale through your nose. Continue this process for 5 - 7 minutes. If you begin to feel too warm or may have difficulty in breathing, take your face out of the towel for a few seconds to breathe properly. Adding a 1 - 2 drops of peppermint oil, thyme oil and rosemary oil in the bowl of water will also be a good idea. This is definitely the best way of sinus drainage.

Facial Massage
Another natural way for sinus drainage is by massaging your face. Massaging some of the sinus pressure points on the face and the head can help in relieving chest congestion. The main pressure points which you have to massage are forehead and the cheeks. With your fingers gently massage these areas in a small circular motion. In the same way, you have to massage the outer edges of the nose, top of the nose (between the eyebrows) and also on the sides of the cheekbones. You should also do the same thing on your jawbone, on the top of your head as well as in the area around the neck.

Scented Handkerchiefs
One of the natural ways to relieve clogged sinus is by inhaling a scented handkerchief. For this, take one drop of geranium oil, one drop of eucalyptus oil and two drops of rosemary oil in a bowl. Take a cotton handkerchief and soak it in the bowl containing the essential oils for a few minutes. Take the handkerchief out of the bowl and allow it to dry normally. Then, hold the handkerchief to your face and inhale deeply.

Apart from these home remedies, drinking herbal teas made of herbs like lemon, ginger, echinacea, mint, etc. will also help to get rid of sinus infection. Some experts also recommend the consumption of horseradish for sinus congestion relief. However, if these natural remedies do not work for you, consult your medical practitioner who will suggest certain medical treatments which will help in draining your sinus completely.