Sinusitis is an inflammation of the tissue lining the sinuses, or swelling. They fill safe sinuses with air. But germs can develop and cause an infection when they become blocked and filled with fluid.

Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include:

  • The common cold
  • Allergic rhinitis, which is swelling of the lining of the nose caused by allergens
  • Small growths in the lining of the nose called nasal polyps
  • A deviated septum, which is a shift in the nasal cavity

Types

You may hear your doctor use these terms:

  • Acute sinusitis usually starts with cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain. It may start suddenly and last 2-4 weeks.
  • Subacute sinusitus usually lasts 4 to 12 weeks.
  • Chronic sinusitus symptoms last 12 weeks or longer.
  • Recurrent sinusitis happens several times a year.

Treat sinusitis with essential oils

There are three methods that could be used. For the steam inhalation method, use the following combination of essential oils:

Basic blend – steam inhalation

Rosemary 3 drops
Thyme linalol1 drop
Peppermint1 drop
Geranium1 drop

Blend the essential oils together, place 3 drops in a bowl of hot water, and inhale the steam through the nose. Keep the eyes tightly closed.

Basic blend – tissue inhalation

Rosemary2 drops
Geranium1 drop
Eucalyptus radiata1 drop

Blend the essential oils using these proportions, put 1 drop of the blend on a tissue, and inhale as needed.

Basic blend – massage

Rosemary 5 drops
Geranium5 drops
Eucalyptus radiata2 drops
Peppermint1 drop

Blend the oils together, then dilute 3–5 drops to each teaspoon (5 mL) of carrier oil. Massage starting around the neck and moving behind and in front of the ears. Then, using no more than 1 drop of the blend, massage over the cheekbone, the nose, and the forehead. Be very careful to avoid the eye area. Remove any excess with a tissue.

Other Essential Oils That Could Be Used to Treat This Condition: tea tree, *basil linalol (Ocimum basilicum ct. linalool), *juniper berry (Juniperus communis), *benzoin (Styrax benzoin), *niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia), *pine (Pinus sylvestris), *cajuput (Melaleuca cajuputi), *ravintsara (Cinnamomum camphora ct. cineole)

Can I Prevent Sinusitis?

There is no sure-fire way to prevent sinusitis. But there are some things that might help.

  • Don’t smoke, and avoid other people’s smoke. 
  • Wash your hands often, especially during cold and flu season, and try not to touch your face.
  • Stay away from things you know you’re allergic to.

What Happens if Sinusitis Isn’t Treated?

You’ll have pain and discomfort until it starts to clear up. In rare cases, untreated sinusitis can lead to meningitis, a brain abscess, or an infection of the bone. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.

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