Sinus

Sinus Supplements

A sinus is a sac or cavity in an organ or tissue and there are many sinus supplements that can support them. Most people use the word "sinus" to refer to the paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled extensions of the nasal cavity in the cranial bones. They are named after the bones that provide their structure. Most people have four paranasal sinuses:

• Ethmoid sinus cavities – located between the eyes
• Frontal sinus cavities – located above the eyes in the forehead region
• Maxillary sinus cavities – located on either side of the nostrils
• Sphenoid sinuses – located behind the eyes in the deeper recesses of the skull

Sinus Functions

The paranasal sinuses are part of the nose and respiratory system and connect to the nasal passages in a complex network of airflow and drainage passages. The sinuses make thin mucus that drains out of the channels of the nose and that helps keep the nose clean and free of bacteria and there are many supplements that support their health. Paranasal sinuses are responsible for:

• Helping to filter and add moisture to air that is inhaled through the nasal passages
• Removing unwanted particles from the sinus cavities
• Lightening the weight of the skull
• Supporting immune defence of the nasal cavity
• Allowing for voice resonance
• Allowing space to accommodate for growth
• Providing shock absorption upon trauma

Common Sinus Conditions

Sinus infections are common and may be caused by different factors including, more often than not, upper respiratory tract infections which can easily spread to the sinuses. Of these, the most common is sinusitis or rhinosinusitis. Sinusitis may be acute, recurrent, or become chronic as a result of a bacterial infection, asthma, abnormal bone structure, growths in the sinuses (nasal polyps), and nasal allergies. Symptoms of sinusitis/rhinosinusitis can be extremely debilitating and include headaches, heavy mucus buildup, post-nasal drip, severe nasal blockage or congestion, bad breath, pressure in the cheeks, forehead, temple, and eye regions (sinuses), as well as fever, and tiredness. Although rare, untreated sinus infections can become life-threatening by infecting the brain, eyes, or nearby bone so should always be addressed, thankfully there are many sinus supplements and medications to help with overall health and infections.

Sinus Supporting Supplements

Conventional approaches to treating sinusitis include decongestants, saline nasal irrigation, OTC allergy medications including antihistamines, steroid sprays, and antibiotics. However, most of these are known to predispose to recurrent infections. There is also a range of safe and effective natural supplements that can help treat sinus infections. Some of the most common are listed below.

Black Seed Oil

A powerful free-radical scavenger, black seed oil supplements can inhibit the inflammation of sinuses and respiratory airways, microbial infections, and as well as help tame the symptoms of sinusitis such as post-nasal drip, nasal congestion, headache, neck pain, earache, and toothache.

Echinacea

A potent natural antibacterial and antiviral, echinacea not only helps fight infections but also helps mitigate and calm inflammation, making it an excellent treatment to treat both the cause and symptoms of sinus infections.

Garlic

Naturally antibacterial, anti-inflammatory garlic has been shown to help bolster the immune system to fight off infections. Allicin, a powerful active compound in garlic has not only been shown to help fight sinus infections but also to quell associated symptoms, including sinus congestion.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

A powerful antibiotic and antiviral, grapefruit seed extract supplements are used extensively for nasal and throat conditions, perhaps most notably, for sinus infections. It can be used orally, mixed liquid with salt and sterilized water to flush the sinuses, or added to a Neti pot and used as a sinus rinse.

Oregano Oil

Contains two powerful naturally occurring compounds, carvacrol and thymol, that have scientifically demonstrated anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

Turmeric, A Sinus Supplement

A scientifically proven natural anti-inflammatory, turmeric is ideal to help address the inflammatory nature of sinusitis by reducing cellular inflammation, and vascular congestion.

Vitamin C

A natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrient that strengthens the immune system, Vitamin C supplements naturally helps bolster the body’s defences against sinus infections. In addition, it has been shown to help prevent asthma, as well as reduce wheezing, improve lung function, and protect against bronchitis and sinusitis.

Zinc

Zinc supplements are effective at supporting the sinuses and rhinovirus (a common upper respiratory tract infection) from multiplying and preventing it from lodging in the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.

Other Sinus Supplements To Consider:

• Bromelain
• Quercetin
• Probiotics
• N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
• Select essential oils, including eucalyptus, and peppermint.

Final Thoughts On Sinus Supporting Supplements

Shop for quality supplements that are made of pure ingredients and organic when possible. It's also advised to choose a supplement with little excipients and that's made by a reputable brand. If you need further help, speak with your health care practitioner or qualified team member at National Nutrition.

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