Drain Sinuses and Clear a Stuffy Nose with This Technique
Optionally, use essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint in the bathroom as well, which have shown promise in their natural decongestant properties. Eucalyptus oil has been shown to have decongestant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, which will help to clear your sinuses and aid in prevention of a sinus infection.[2] To use, drop 5 to 10 drops of the oil in the tub or bowl of water.
Keep essential oils away from children. They can cause serious problems and possibly death if ingested or used in the wrong wayDry sinuses compound sinus congestion. Humidifiers help much in the same way as steam. Keep a humidifier on while you are around the house or while you sleep in order to increase the moisture level in your nose and help loosen nasal secretions.[4]Optionally, apply around 5 drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint into your humidifier water to help with your congestion. Eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial, decongestant, and anti-inflammatory properties that helps clear sinusesUse a warm compress. Heat also helps your nasal congestion and drains your sinuses. To make a warm compress, place a moist washcloth in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes. After, check that the temperature of the cloth is hot but tolerable. Place the cloth across your nose and allow it to sit until the heat is gone. Repeat this as needed tMake and administer saline spray. Saline spray is beneficial in loosening nasal congestion. To make your own, mix 8 oz (~30 mL) of warm water with ½ tsp (~3 g) of salt in a bowl. Place the long end of a nasal bulb in the bowl of solution, squeeze it to release air, then release to fill the bulb with water. Next, place the small end in your nose and administer 2 squeezes into each nostril to add the liquid to your nasal secretions, which will facilitate blowing.[7]Alternatively, use nasal saline sprays every few hours. Nasal saline drops are very safe and effective even for babieso loosen secretions and permit clearance from your nose with blownStay hydrated and drink or eat hot substances. Warm drinks and food also help relieve your sinus issues. Try hot soups or hot tea, which will have a similar effect to steam. The heat from the tea will heat up your sinus passages and help them drain. Any type of tea you prefer is fine, though peppermint and lavender often provide additional benefits with sinus congestion.[9]Also change up the way you eat. Try hot salsa, hot peppers, hot wings, or any food you prefer that has a spicy kick to it. The added heat to your system will help heat up your sinuses and get your secretions running.
Be sure to drink plenty of water, even if it’s not a hot fluid. Sinus issues are often accompanied by dehydration, and rehydrating your body helps thin the mucus in your sinuses, promoting drainageExercise for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Although you may not feel like exercising when you have sinus congestion, physical activity helps increase the flow of the mucus in your sinuses, which will help with the clearance of nasal secretions. Try some aerobic exercises for 15 to 20 minutes to help relieve your sinus trouble.[11]If you’re allergic to pollen or other outside substances, try exercising inside at a gym or at home to avoid increased exposure to irritating allergens.