Sinusitis has become one of the most common lifestyle related health issues that is concerning people worldwide. Some of the major reasons that leads to sinusitis is pollution, allergies, poor lifestyle choices, improper nutrition, weak immunity and even stress. Sinusitis is not just about the nasal congestion. It also includes facial pain, headaches and difficulty in breathing.
All these things become an everyday struggle for people suffering from it. Although, the modern pharmacies offer you a number of antibiotics and decongestants that may work as quick fixes but offer only temporary relief. Ayurveda, with its age old wisdom offers sustainable and long term solutions that manager sinusitis by addressing its root causes.
Ayurveda in spite of being such an old healthcare tradition has survived centuries and been passed down through generations to stay relevant even in today’s modern times. This is because it analyses any disease by first breaking down its root causes, by the in depth analysis of the body’s unique constitution – Prakriti and the imbalance of the doshas. This in-depth analysis of the doshas, allows the patient to gain a personalized treatment with customized therapies, diet charts, herbal remedies and lifestyle modifications. This not only helps them to get relief from the symptoms. But altogether prevents the diseases’ recurrence and strengthens the body’s internal health.
How Ayurveda understands sinusitis (Pratishyaya and Peenasa)
In the ayurvedic language sinusitis is referred to as Pratishyaya and Peenasa. Usually the condition of sinus occurs when the nasal packages of the person remains blocked and excess toxins – Ama gets accumulated overtime. This is an indication of imbalanced Kapha Dosha and aggravated Vata dosha which create mucus inflammation as well as dryness in the nasal region.
In addition to this, there are other additional causes that Ayurveda identifies such as weak digestion, exposure to pollution, cold air, consumption of unhealthy fried items, suppressing the natural urges of the body such as sneezing and cuffing and also poor sleep quality as well as and chronic stress. Aggravated Kapha Dosha further thickens the sinus and blocks the nasal channels and Vata Dosha then dries the tissues and that is how inflammation and infection follow up.
Ayurvedic treatments for relief in Sinusitis
There are certain therapeutic ayurvedic therapies which not only help in getting rid of sinusitis but altogether preventing it Places such as Kerala which is also popularly known as the cradle of Ayurveda offers authentic treatments. Some of the best Ayurveda treatment in Kerala, for treating sinus are –
Nasyam Nasal treatment- the king of Sinusitis relief
Nasyam is a Sanskrit word which refers to the nose. Basically in the nasya therapy, medicated oils are administered through the nostrils along with herbal juices to clear up the congestion. This clearance helps in enhancing oxygen flow, reducing headaches, pain in the facial region as well as altogether prevents its recurrence. Some of the therapeutic oils that are used in this treatment are the Anu Thailam, Shaadbindu oil and the Ksheerbala tailam.
Swedana – Steam therapy
Swedana refers to a steam therapy where herb infused waters are used to create steam which is then inhaled to open up the nostrils and loosen the mucus. Therapeutic herbs such as eucalyptus, ajwain, tulsi and mint are infused in this steam. This treatment is highly effective in naturally draining of the sinus and providing instant relief from heaviness as well as irritation.
Shirodhara for stress led sinus
Shirodhara refers to the treatment where oil is poured on the forehead region. How this treatment affects sinus is that it helps in relaxing the nervous system, bringing down inflammation and improving sleep. It has been identified that stress and weak immunity are one of the core reasons that lead to sinus. So, Shirodhara might not be a direct treatment but it is a supportive treatment that fosters healing.
Dhoomapana, inhalation of medicated smoke
Dhoomapana is a traditional ayurvedic treatment where a herbal smoke is created and then it is recommended to the patient to inhale it for a short period of time It helps in clearing up congestion, removing mucus and also enhancing circulation in the Nasal region. It is recommended to be performed in a controlled environment and supervised by professional ayurvedic vaidyas.
Panchakarma- the ultimate detox
Panchkarma is the ultimate five step detox which has been renowned for its deep detoxification and rejuvenation effects. It is especially beneficial for recurrent and chronic sinus. The Panchakarma procedures such as Vamana which is therapeutic emesis helps in balancing the Kapha dosha and Virechna that is purgation helps in balancing the Pitta Dosha.
Again the Panchakarma might not be a direct treatment for tackling sinus other than the Nasya treatment. But it helps in boosting immunity and strengthening the body do fight infections.
Herbal remedies for sinusitis
The Ayurvedic treatments are absolutely incomplete without including therapeutic herbs. There are certain time tested herbs such as Tulsi, Ginger, Turmeric, Licorice and Triphla. These help in naturally clearing away the accumulation of toxins in the nasal area, breaking down thick mucus and bringing down information. These herbs can be consumed in powder, decoction as well as tablet and steam formats to find relief in sinus.
Easy home remedies for natural sinus relief
In addition to Ayurvedic treatments, there are certain easy ayurvedic home remedies such as gargling with warm water and salt, consuming turmeric milk, a spoonful of ginger and honey mix, consuming Kadhas – Herb infused teas and] inhaling steam infused with herbs to clear away the blocked sinusitis.
Conclusion
The sinusitis is one of the most Common chronic diseases that people globally suffer from Ayurveda happens to be an alternative sustainable and side effect free Treatment that not only helps cure sinus from the root but also altogether prevents it. The Ayurveda Therapies in Kerala, offer a therapeutic and safe way to find long term relief and enhance the quality of life in today’s stress-laden polluted world.
