Sinus Connection

Daily exposure to dust, allergens and pollutants, can inflame and block the sinus cavities and congest the lymph glands, Many people suffer from sinus pressure and headaches. This treatment massages the muscles of the face, neck and scalp to drain the sinuses and lymph glands. This tones and relaxes the face and neck muscles and increases local circulation.

An important step in remedying the chronic sinus aggravation  is external massage. This massage will soften the structures that have been distorted by the imbalance. Head massage is considered very important  and it is used to prevent toxins from accumulating in the head (among other things, used for common cold, sinusitis, and headaches). For sinus disorders, the massage is carried out by applying aromatherapy oil.

Sinus congestion is a sign that our bodies are trying to protect us from an invasion. It results from release of histamines, one of the body's defense mechanisms against penetration by germs or allergens.

Taking anti-histamines can dry up that extra mucous, but it isn't always necessary or healthy to do so. Here are some steps that you can take at the first sign of congestion to help your immune system protect itself naturally.

PROTECT YOUR ENVIRONMENT

The first step is to remove yourself from an atmosphere that might be triggering an attack of sinusitis--smoky rooms, people wearing cologne or perfume, animal hair or dander. Stay away from folks who are sneezing and coughing, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly, especially during the winter cold and flu season.

Don't let yourself get chilled; the body uses a tremendous amount of energy to re-warm itself, energy that could be better put to use by the immune system.

DRINK HERBAL TEA

Herbal teas, especially ginger, Echinacea, lemon and mint not only taste wonderful but give the body's immune system a natural boost. Add honey to taste if you'd like it sweetened.

USE STEAM

Steam helps to relieve congestion, so if you're suffering from a mild allergic reaction, it might clear up just with a hot shower. If that's not feasible or doesn't quite do the trick, the old-fashioned remedy of a facial steam bath might work. This can be done with a personal sauna from the home appliance department, or you can make your own.

Bring a large kettle of water to a boil and remove it from the heat--this is important! Do NOT leave it on the stove, boiling, while you proceed. Drape a large bath towel over your head, lean over the kettle, and inhale through your nose. Continue for about five minutes. If your face begins to feel too warm for comfort or your breathing becomes labored, lift the towel for a second or two to catch your breath.

The steam baths available at spas help to open skin pores and to relieve nasal congestion, so you might want to use your stuffy sinuses as an excuse to pamper yourself with an appointment at a sauna or steam bath facility.

ESSENTIAL OILS

You can increase the effectiveness of steam, either in the shower or in a facial sauna, by adding essential oils. Eucalyptus is known for its clearing powers, as is peppermint. Just a teaspoon in the hot water will help, or you can put a few drops on a sponge and leave it in your tub while you shower.

According to Dr. Andrew Weil, one of the leaders in the integrative health movement, a handful of dry sage and/or eucalyptus leaves (or a few drops of the essential oils of either) steeped in the hot water not only soothes congested sinuses, it can help to prevent bacterial growth.

Other essential oils recommended by aromatherapy professionals for relieving sinusitis are rosemary, thyme, peppermint, geranium, tea tree (sometimes spelled ti tree) basil, juniper, oregano, and pine.

Use a single oil, or a combination of 3-5, in the inhalation steam or put a drop on a tissue to sniff as you need to. You might also burn candles permeated with these oils at your desk or in your home.

AVOID PROBLEM FOODS

Avoid any foods you have known allergies to, especially if you are fighting off cold symptoms. Dairy products are notorious for stimulating mucous, so they should be off your menu if you're suffering from sinusitis.