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Sinusitis is sinus pain that can have different causes. People can get it from changes in barometric pressure, allergies, or from head colds. The pain is caused by swollen mucous membranes which close of the sinuses' openings into the nose. If accompanied by a fever or yellow/green discharge, it means that sinusitis has turned into a sinus infection. In that case you will need to see a doctor. Other than that, there are some home remedies that work great for sinusitis.

* Steam

A hot shower, soup, or hot tea all work. You can also sit over a bowl of steaming water with a towel over your head and breathe in the vapors. This works especially well if you add some chamomile, Vicks Vapo Rub, or Eucalyptus essential oil to the water. The moisture created by the steam helps liquefy secretions that are blocking sinuses.

* Oregano

Steep one to two teaspoons of oregano herb in a cup of boiling water. Slowly sip it after it cools down. Although this tea does not have a very pleasant taste, drink it unsweetened. This tea works because oregano contains a compound that loosens phlegm.

* Salt Water

Salt Water will help if you rinse your nose with it (not drink it). For a nose bath, mix a pint of water with a half teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of witch hazel. Put the mixture into a spray bottle. To use, tip your head sideways over the sink, put the nozzle of the bottle in your upper nostril, and spray until the salty water runs out of the other (bottom) nostril for a while.

This is helpful because the saline solution washes away dried mucus, and may improve the flow of blood through the mucous membranes.

* Spices

Eating spicy foods also brings relief to many, because they increase mucous production. Red pepper works well, so does tabasco sauce. Red pepper works so well because it also triggers release of hormones which may help open nasal passages.

* Menthol

Rubs such as Ben Gay and Vicks Vapo Rub contain Menthol. You can rub these on your forehead, temples, under the cheekbones, and on the bridge of the nose. Take care not to get too close to the eyes, and wash your hands thoroughly so you don't accidentally rub any in your eyes.

For more information and more details on home remedies for sinusitis you can also check out Home Remedies - What Works by the Prevention Health Library, which was used as a source for some of the information above.

Learn more about this author, Alexandra Heep.
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