Possible Sinusitis Herbs

Are you looking for some possible sinusitis herbs? Here are some that come from the University of Maryland Medical Center’s (UMM) Herbs and Supplements for Sinusitis.



Echinacea



This is one of the most popular herbs in America today. It is a Native American medicinal herb originally used as a "cure-all". Today it is used in many ways including shortening the length of a cold, help with coughs, and help with sinusitis.



Although the jury is still out on the true efficacy of this herb, several laboratory tests and studies have shown it to be effective in helping the body’s immune system, reducing pain and inflammation, and helping against viral infections, all related to sinus problems.



According to the UMM, there are ways to use this herb for both adults and children. For adults you can use 1-2 grams of dried root or herb as tea, 2-3 ml of standardized tincture extract, 6-9 ml of expressed juice (succus), 300 mg of standardized powdered extract containing 4% phenolics, a tincture (1:5): 1 - 3 mL (20 - 90 drops), or stabilized fresh extract: 0.75 mL (15 - 23 drops). Choose one of these and take it 3 times a day for a week or 10 days.



For children, you have to adjust the adult dosage for the weight of the child. The dosages for adults are meant for a 150 lb adult. If your child weighs 50 lb, the appropriate dose would be 1/3 of the adult dose.



Of course, you should always consult your doctor before using this herb. Although it is generally safe, there are some reports of allergic reactions or drug interactions that can lead to unwanted complications.



Barberry



Another old herb, dating back to almost 2,500 years, Barberry is an Indian folk medicine traditionally used for diarrhea. Today it is used to ease inflammation and infection of several parts of the body including the respiratory tract (which would include the sinuses).



Barberry is available in capsules, fluid extracts, tinctures and as topical ointments.



The UMM does not recommend using this herb on children as the evidence is still insufficient to determine proper dosing for children. For adults, you can try it in a tea of about 2 - 4 grams of dried root steeped or 1 - 2 tsp of whole or crushed berries steeped in approximately 2/3 of a cup of boiling water for 10 - 15 minutes 3 times daily. You can also take in a tincture of 1/2 to 1 1/2 tsp 3 times daily or as dry extracts of about 250 - 500 milligrams 3 times daily.



Again, there are certain precautions that you have to take into consideration. This drug has known issues when used with antibiotics, antihistamines, anticoagulants, blood pressure medications, diuretics, and medications for diabetes among others. Be sure to tell your doctor before attempting any of the suggested doses.



Goldenseal



Another Native American herb, goldenseal was originally used for skin problems, digestive disorders, and sore eyes. It has many medical uses today including uses as an antibiotic, immune booster, and as treatment for upper respiratory problems (which include sinus problems).



Again there is no recommendation for this herb to be used on children. For adults you can try capsules or tablets at 500 - 1,000 mg, up to 3 times daily, standardized extract at 30 - 120 mg, up to 3 times daily, or as tinctures of (1:5): 2 - 3 mL, three times daily.



Do not use this if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have high blood pressure, liver, or heart conditions without the approval of your doctor. It is also known to interact with anticoagulants. Again, it is very important to keep your doctor informed if you plan to use this herb.



Eucalyptus



This Australian and Tasmanian native is widely used today as an alternative herb. It has antibacterial properties and acts as an expectorant which loosens the mucus in the body.



Again, take care when using this with children. Children should never eat the leaves or oil. Only use the cough drops using eucalyptus on children older than 6 years of age.



For adults you can try eucalyptus leaf as an infusion or tea of about 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon per cup of hot water, 3 times daily. Steep it for about 10 - 15 minutes, and drink as recommended.



Be sure to consult your doctor before using any of these. All of these suggestions can be found on the UMM website.





Joseph Martinez was a long time sinus sufferer until he discovered amazing natural cures. After many years of research he shares everything. For more information about sinusitis herbs , Visit Sinus Relief Center.