DESCRIPTION

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal nasal sinuses. This inflammation may or may not be as a result of infection from bacterial, fungal, viral, allergic or autoimmune issues. Newer classifications of sinusitis refer to it as rhinosinusitis, taking into account the thought that inflammation of the sinuses cannot occur without some inflammation of the nose as well (rhinitis).

The paranasal sinuses consist of 4 pairs of cavities, or sinuses, located within the skull or bones of the head surrounding the nose:

• Frontal Sinuses: Above the eyes in the brow area.
• Maxillary Sinuses: To either side of the nose, inside the cheekbones.
• Sphenoid Sinuses: Behind the Ethnoids in the upper region of the nose and behind the eyes.
• Ethnoid Sinuses: In the upper nose, just behind the bridge of the nose and between the eyes.

Sinuses are air-filled pockets in the skull that are connected to the nose and throat by passages designed to drain away mucus. The sinuses are the first line of defense in protecting the lungs against infection.



Each sinus has an opening into the nose for the free exchange of air and mucus, and each is joined with the nasal passages by a continuous mucous membrane lining. Therefore, anything that causes a swelling in the nose - an infection, an allergic reaction, or another type of immune reaction - also can affect your sinuses.

Air trapped within a blocked sinus, along with pus or other secretions (liquid material) may cause pressure on the sinus wall. The result is the sometimes intense pain of a sinus attack. Similarly, when air is prevented from entering a paranasal sinus by a swollen membrane at the opening, a vacuum can be created that also causes pain.

Most cases of sinusitis affect the frontal and/or maxillary sinuses, but any or all of the sinuses may be involved, and each individual tends to have problems with a particular set of sinuses. If the sinuses are too small or poorly positioned to handle the volume of mucus produced, they can become clogged. Pressure in the sinuses increases, causing pain. Sinuses that are clogged for a long time seem to invite infection.

Sinusitis means your sinuses are infected or inflamed. But this gives little indication of the misery and pain this condition can cause. Health experts usually divide sinusitis cases into:

• Acute cases, which last for 4 weeks or less.
• Subacute cases, which last 4 to 12 weeks.
• Chronic cases, which last more than 12 weeks and can continue for months or even years.
• Recurrent cases, which involve several acute attacks within a year.

Sinusitis can also be classified by the type of inflammation (either infectious or non-infectious). Infectious sinusitis is usually caused by uncomplicated virus infection. Far less frequently bacterial growth causes sinus infection. Non-infectious sinusitis can be caused by irritants and allergic conditions. Subacute and chronic forms of sinus infection usually are the result of incomplete treatment of an acute sinus infection.

Health experts estimate 37 million Americans are affected by sinusitis every year. Health care providers report nearly 32 million cases of chronic sinusitis to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention annually. Americans spend $5.8 billion each year on healthcare costs related to sinusitis.

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CAUSES

Sinusitis can be either acute or chronic.

• Acute sinusitis is frequently caused by bacterial or viral infections of the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract, such as the common cold. More than 50 percent of all cases of sinusitis are caused by bacteria. Air travel also can lead to acute inflammation of the sinuses, because of changes in air pressure.



• Chronic sinusitis problems may be caused by small growths in the nose, injury of the nasal bones, air pollution, dental complications, emotional stress, smoking, and exposure to irritant fumes and smells.



• Allergic sinusitis may be caused by hay fever or food allergies, especially allergies to milk and dairy products. People with compromised immune systems are susceptible to fungal sinusitis, a potentially dangerous condition that requires aggressive treatment.

Sinus infection may be caused by anything that interferes with airflow into the sinuses and the drainage of mucous out of the sinuses. The sinus openings may be obstructed by anything which causes swelling of the tissue lining and adjacent nasal passage tissue, for example colds, allergies, and tissue irritants (OTC nasal sprays, cocaine, cigarette smoke). Sinuses can also become obstructed by tumors or growths which are in the proximity of the sinus ostia. The drainage of mucous from the sinuses can be impaired by thickening of the mucous secretions, by decrease in hydration (water content) of the mucous brought on by disease (cystic fibrosis), drying medications (antihistamines), and lack of sufficient humidity in the air. The mucous producing cells have small hair-like fibers, called cilia, which move back and forth to help the mucous move out of the sinuses. These small cilia may be damaged by many irritants, especially smoke, which then prevents them from assisting the mucous from draining from the sinuses. Stagnated mucous then provides a perfect environment for bacteria and in some circumstances (i.e.: AIDS) fungus to grow in the sinus cavities.

ACUTE SINUSITIS

Acute sinusitis is usually precipitated by an earlier upper respiratory tract infection, generally of viral origin. Most cases of acute sinusitis start with a common cold, which is caused by a virus. Colds can inflame your sinuses and cause symptoms of sinusitis. Both the cold and the sinus inflammation usually go away without treatment within 2 weeks. If the inflammation produced by the cold leads to a bacterial infection, however, then this infection is what health experts call acute sinusitis.

The inflammation caused by the cold results in swelling of the mucous membranes (linings) of your sinuses, and this can lead to air and mucus becoming trapped behind the narrowed openings of the sinuses. When mucus stays inside your sinuses and is unable to drain into your nose, it can become the source of nutrients (material that gives nourishment) for bacteria. Virally damaged surface tissues are then colonized by bacteria, most commonly Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Other bacterial pathogens include other Staphylococcus aureus and other streptococci species, anaerobic bacteria and, less commonly, gram negative bacteria.

Viral sinusitis typically lasts for 7 to 10 days, whereas bacterial sinusitis is more persistent. Approximately 0.5-2 percent of viral sinusitis extends into bacterial sinusitis. One hypothesis postulates that the bacterial infection begins with nose blowing.

Most healthy people harbor bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, in the nose and throat, and the bacteria cause no problems. But when you have a cold, you tend to sniff or to blow your nose, and these actions cause pressure changes that can send bacteria inside the sinuses. If your sinuses then stop draining properly, bacteria that may have been living harmlessly in your nose or throat can begin to multiply in your sinuses, causing acute sinusitis.

People who suffer from allergies that affect the nose (like pollen allergy, also called hay fever), as well as people who may have chronic nasal symptoms not caused by allergy, are also prone to develop episodes of acute sinusitis. The chronic nasal problems cause the nasal membranes to swell, and the sinus passages become blocked in a manner similar to that described above for the common cold. The normally harmless bacteria in the nose and throat again lead to acute sinusitis.

Rarely, fungal infections can cause acute sinusitis. Although fungi are abundant in the environment, they usually are harmless to healthy people because the human body has a natural resistance to fungus. However, in people whose immune system is not functioning properly, fungus, such as Aspergillus, can cause acute sinusitis. (Aspergillus is commonly found growing on dead leaves, stored grain, compost piles, or in other decaying vegetation.)

In general, these infections are most often seen in people with diabetes or people who have reduced immune function (AIDS / HIV infection or transplant patients on anti-rejection medications) and can be life threatening. In type I diabetes, ketoacidosis causes sinusitis by mucormycosis. Mucormycosis is an aggressive, opportunistic infection caused by fungi in the class of Phycomycetes, first described in 1885 by Paltauf. The genera most commonly responsible for mucormycosis usually are Mucor or Rhizopus. Orbitorhinocerebral mucormycosis, the most common type, generally occurs in conjunction with sinus or nasal involvement. Mucormycosis also may affect other parts of the body, including the lungs, GI tract, or skin. Most cases of mucormycosis are acute surgical emergencies; however, several cases of a more chronic, indolent form have been reported, with signs and symptoms developing over 4 weeks.

People with abnormalities in mucus secretion or mucus movement (such as those with cystic fibrosis) are more likely to suffer from sinusitis. Rarely, it may be caused by a tooth infection.

CHRONIC SINUSITIS

In chronic sinusitis, the membranes of both the paranasal sinuses and the nose are thickened because they are constantly inflamed. Most experts now use the term "chronic rhinosinusitis" to describe this condition, and they also recommend that the condition be divided into rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps. Nasal polyps are grape-like growths of the sinus membranes that protrude into the sinuses or into the nasal passages. Polyps make it even more difficult for the sinuses to drain and for air to pass through the nose.

The causes of chronic sinusitis are largely unknown. The condition often occurs in people with asthma, the majority of whom have allergies. It is possible that constant exposure to inhaled allergens that are present year-round, such as house dust mites, pets, mold (a kind of fungus), and cockroaches cause chronic inflammation of the nose and the sinuses.

An allergic reaction to certain fungi may be responsible for at least some cases of chronic sinusitis; this condition is called "allergic fungal sinusitis." At least half of all people with chronic rhinosinusitis do not have allergies, however.

For many decades health care providers thought that most cases of sinusitis in its chronic form were the result of persistent infection. Today, most health experts believe that chronic rhinosinusitis, as it is better termed, is not an infectious disease (like acute sinusitis). If you suffer frequent episodes of acute sinusitis, however, you may be prone to develop chronic rhinosinusitis.

Chronic rhinosinusitis exists in at least two forms. The first considers the disorder to be a systemic problem due to a malfunction of the immune system (immune deficiency disorder). This condition often accompanies asthma, primary immune deficiency disease or HIV infection, or an abnormality in the quality of mucus produced by the respiratory system (cystic fibrosis).

Many diseases are associated with chronic rhinosinusitis. However, the detection of a specific cause is often a daunting task in a particular patient. The most commonly assumed factors that perpetuate the sinusitis are allergies, bacterial infections and fungal infection or contamination. Other important factors include anatomic deformities of the nose and sinuses, malfunctions of the flow of mucus, endocrine disorders such as thyroid disease and diabetes, reduced immunity, injuries, medication effects, chemical irritation of the nasal lining and previous surgery. Although there is good reason to believe that infections and allergies play some role, it may be in form of strengthening the inflammation, rather than originating it. This concept is reinforced by the fact that appropriate and prolonged antibiotics and allergy immunotherapy do not cure the majority of cases of chronic sinusitis.



In the second form, there are local factors that lead to recurrent or persistent sinus infections. A group of people who may develop chronic sinusitis are those with significant anatomic (structure) variations inside the nose, such as a deviated septum, that lead to blockage of mucus.

A special subset of chronic rhinosinusitis is that form accompanied by severe polyps extending into and sometimes filling the nasal cavity. Polyps represent severely swollen lining from the sinus and nasal wall that obstructs, sometimes completely, the nose and sinuses. Chronic allergic aspergillosis (a fungal overgrowth) of the sinuses as well as aspirin hypersensitivity asthma (Samter's triad) are both associated with extensive polyps, indicating that disturbances in regulation of inflammation are capable of causing polyps. The fact that complete surgical removal of the polyps and infection often is followed by the rapid return of polyps would indicate that some sort of malfunction in the control of inflammation, rather that the mere presence of bacteria or anatomic factors, underlies the development of chronic polypoid rhinosinusitis. This is further strengthened by the complete suppression of polyp formation with high dose systemic cortisone.

Biofilms are complex aggregates of extracellular matrix and inter-dependent microorganisms from multiple species, many of which may be difficult or impossible to isolate using standard clinical laboratory techniques. Bacteria found in biofilms may show increased antibiotic resistance when compared to free-living bacteria of the same species. It has been hypothesized that biofilm-type infections may account for many cases of antibiotic-refractory chronic sinusitis. A recent study found that biofilms were present on the mucosa of 3/4 of patients undergoing surgery for chronic sinusitis.



ALLERGIC SINUSITIS

Allergic sinusitis occurs when there is pain in forehead, cheeks, around eyes and nose. It blocks the nasal cavities and does not let the mucus to drain freely. It occurs in spring season when flowers are at full bloom. The main causes are pollen of flowers, dust, pollution, rage wood etc. These particles are transported by air and enter into human body while inhaling air for breathing. These airborne substances unclog the nasal passages and sinuses resulting in sinusitis. A person experiences the symptoms which include bad breath, watery eyes, sore teeth and excessive sneezing. Postnasal drip, loss of taste and smell are some other problems that are being faced by the sufferers.

It is important to note that the allergic sinusitis should be healed as early as possible. If one does not take immediate steps to cure, then one has to handle the other allergies also. Allergic sinusitis can be lessened with natural irrigation method. Neti or saline nasal spray is very much effective and provides an astounding relief too. It cleans the sinus passages and reduces the inflammation. This neti has been one of the effective treatments for many years and cured sufferers who had experienced this allergic sinusitis for a long time.

If the allergic sinusitis is severe, then it is better to consult a health care provider for treatment. Some people take cold as a synonym of allergic sinusitis. They are wrong at this. An allergic sinusitis patients have to suffer from congestion, itchy eyes and runny nose and that usually are not symptoms in cold.

Various precautions must be taken to keep distance from allergic sinusitis. A person can use air purifier filler for keeping the house neat and clean. Use filter vacuums to collect dust because vacuums release 60 percent of collected dust. Also, one should keep the family pets out of the bedroom because animal's hair is also one of the prime causes of allergic sinusitis.

If you have allergic sinusitis it is important to drink liquids as much as possible. Liquid intakes make your body hydrate and also provide the balanced functioning of mucous membrane and sinuses. Moreover, take immediate bath after gardening for removing the pollen from the body.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Allergies

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hay Fever

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SYMPTOMS

Many people do not see their health care provider for sinusitis because they believe they are suffering from allergies or a cold. While the symptoms are similar, unlike allergies or colds, sinusitis requires a health care provider's diagnosis and may warrant treatment with an antibiotic to cure the infection and prevent future complications. Sinusitis is one of the most common health problems all over the world. Sinusitis affects people of all ages, males and females.

Symptoms of sinusitis include:

• Fever (usually low-grade, but higher in some cases). As few as 25 percent of patients may have fever associated with acute sinus infection. Chills.
• Cloudy, discolored (yellow or greenish) nasal drainage. Runny nose.
• Cough, often more severe at night, often non-productive.
• Headache that worsen in the morning or when bending forward.
• Feeling of facial fullness or tightness, which worsens on bending over.
• Earache.
• Fatigue, a general feeling of tiredness, general malaise.
• Toothache or cheek pain that resembles a toothache.
• Vertigo, lightheadedness.
• Blurred vision.
• Facial pain.
• Cranial pressure.
• Nasal congestion. Difficulty breathing through the nose, nasal stuffiness
• Loss of sense of smell or detect odors (anosmia).
• Tenderness over the forehead and cheekbones. If tapping the forehead just over the eyes, the cheekbones, or the area around the bridge of the nose causes pain, the sinuses may be infected.
• Sometimes facial swelling followed by stuffy nose and thick mucus discharge.

The symptoms of those with sinusitis can have other unpleasant effects. Postnasal drip can cause:

• A sore throat.
• Nausea.
• Bad breath (halitosis).
• Difficulty breathing can cause snoring and loss of sleep.

In allergic sinusitis other associated allergy symptoms of itching eyes and sneezing may be common.

SINUSITIS PAIN

One of the most common symptoms of sinusitis is pain, and the location depends on which sinus is affected.

• If you have a pain in your forehead over the frontal sinuses when you are touched, your frontal sinuses may be inflamed.



• If your upper jaw and teeth ache, and your cheeks become tender to the touch, you may have an infection in the maxillary sinuses.



• If you have swelling of the eyelids and tissues around your eyes, and pain between your eyes, you may have inflammation of the ethmoid sinuses that are near the tear ducts in the corner of your eyes. Ethmoid inflammation also can cause a stuffy nose, a loss of smell, and tenderness when you touch the sides of your nose.



• If you have earaches, neck pain, and deep achiness at the top of your head, you may have infection in the sphenoid sinuses, although these sinuses are less frequently affected.

Most people with sinusitis have pain or tenderness in several locations, and their symptoms usually do not clearly indicate which sinuses are inflamed.

Headache/facial pain of a dull, constant, aching sort over the affected frontal or sphenoid sinus area is a general symptom of either acute or chronic stages of sinusitis. Sinusitis is characterized by a tender face, nasal congestion, and a post nasal drip. This pain is typically localized to the involved sinus and worsens when the affected person bends over or when in supine position. Rarely, sphenoid or ethmoid sinusitis causes severe frontal or retro-orbital pain and advanced frontal sinusitis can present as Pott's puffy tumor.

Migraine Misdiagnosis: Recent studies suggest that up to 90 percent of "sinus headaches" are migraines. The confusion occurs in part because migraine involves activation of the trigeminal nerves which innervate both the sinus region but also the meninges which surround the brain. As a result, direct determination of the site of pain origination can be confused on a cortical level. Additionally, nasal congestion is not an uncommon result of migraine headaches. A study found that patients with "sinus headache" respond to triptan migraine medications, and state dissatisfaction with their treatment when they are treated with decongestants or antibiotics.

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Migraine

MUCUS DISCHARGE

In addition to the pain, people with sinusitis frequently have thick nasal secretions that are yellow, green, or blood-tinged. Sometimes these secretions, referred to as post-nasal drip, drain in the back of the throat and are difficult to get rid of. Also, acute and chronic sinusitis are strongly associated with nasal symptoms such as a stuffy nose, as well as with a general feeling of fullness over the entire face. In later stages, discharge is usually blocked, leading to an increase of pain.

WEAKNESS, FEVER OR CHILLS & OTHER SYMPTOMS

A general feeling of weakness and fever or chills suggests that the infection has spread beyond the sinuses. On rare occasions, acute sinusitis can result in brain infection and serious complications.

Acute bacterial sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavities caused by bacteria. It is usually preceded by a cold, allergy attack, or irritation by environmental pollutants. Unlike a cold, or allergy, bacterial sinusitis requires a health care provider's diagnosis and treatment to cure the infection and prevent future complications.

When patients have frequent sinusitis, or the infection lasts three months or more, it could be chronic sinusitis. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis may be less severe than those of acute; however, untreated chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses and cheekbones that sometimes requires surgery to repair.

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RISK FACTORS

Factors which may predispose to developing sinusitis include: allergies; structural problems such as a deviated septum or small sinus ostia; smoking; nasal polyps; carrying the cystic fibrosis gene (research is still tentative); prior bouts of sinusitis as each instance may result in increased inflammation of the nasal or sinus mucosa and potentially further narrow the openings.

Many of the risk factors are associated with exposure to contaminants, or activities that could lead to potential vulnerabilities in the immune system.

• Smoking.
• Exposure to others in public places.
• Illness that has lowered resistance.
• Exposure to cold, damp weather outdoors or dry heat indoors.
• Excessive nose blowing during an upper-respiratory infection.
• Hard sneezing with the mouth closed.
• Swimming in contaminated water, especially jumping into the water without holding the nose.
• Abscess in an upper tooth.
• Immunosuppression, as in people who have organ transplants and are taking drugs to suppress the immune function to prevent rejection.
• Continuous positive airway pressure - used in obstructive sleep apnea to keep the upper airways open during sleep.
• Air travel during upper respiratory infection.

It is important to stay aware of the environmental and behavioral triggers that can lead to this condition in order to prevent the recurrence of sinusitis.

Children have immature immune systems and are more prone to infections of the nose, sinus, and ears, especially in the first several years of life. These are most frequently caused by viral infections (colds), and they may be aggravated by allergies. Infection of the adenoid tissue, called adenoiditis, could cause obstruction of the back of the nose and can cause many of the symptoms that are similar to sinusitis, namely, runny nose, stuffy nose, post-nasal drip, bad breath, cough, and headache. If the child remains ill beyond the usual week to ten days, a serious sinus infection is likely.

The risk of sinus infections could be reduced by reducing the exposure of children to known environmental allergies and pollutants such as tobacco smoke, reducing his/her time at day care, and treating stomach acid reflux disease.

By distinguishing whether sinusitis is acute, recurrent, or chronic, the health care provider can determine the predisposing causes. Acute sinusitis is a frequent complication of a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract while recurrent and chronic sinusitis can result from anatomic abnormalities (some of which were previously described) and Immunological problems, most frequently allergic rhinitis. Other disorders such as humoral immunodeficiency are infrequently the cause, although they must be considered in the presence of other systemic infections or in patients whose condition fails to improve despite adequate therapy. Immotile cilia syndrome and cystic fibrosis are other possible etiologic factors.

COMMON ETIOLOGICAL FACTORS OF SINUSITIS

Viral infection, such as the common cold, flu: In these cases the body reacts by producing mucus and sending whit blood cells to the lining of the nose, which congest and swell the nasal passages. When this swelling involves the adjacent mucous membranes of the sinuses, air and mucus are trapped behind the narrowed opening of the sinuses.

Bacteria infection: Some bacterial strains are normal inhabitant of the upper respiratory tract e.g. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. These bacteria have no ill effects until the body's defenses are weakened or drainage from the sinuses is blocked by a cold or other viral infection then they start to be virulent and cause infection of the upper respiratory tract and secondary sinusitis.

Fungal infections: Although fungi are abundant in the environment, they are usually harmless to healthy people, indicating that the human body has a natural resistance to them. Fungi, such as Aspergillus, cause serious illness in people whose immune systems are not functioning properly. Some people with fungal sinusitis have an allergic-type reaction to the fungi.

Allergic rhinitis: Inhalation of airborne allergens (substances that provoke an allergic reaction), such as dust, mold, and pollen, often set off allergic reactions (allergic rhinitis) that, in turn, may contribute to sinusitis. Hay fever may also be complicated by episodes of acute sinusitis. Patients with allergic rhinitis also often have chronic sinusitis.

Vasomotor rhinitis, caused by humidity, cold air, alcohol, perfumes, and other environmental conditions, also may be complicated by sinus infections.

Immune deficiencies and HIV infection: Those patients are more susceptible to develop acute sinusitis than general population.

Cystic fibrosis and diseases of abnormal cilia: Acute and chronic sinusitis could happen as a result of abnormal mucus secretion or cilia movement.

Deviated nasal septum or other obstruction of the nose due to nasal polyps may trap fluid in the sinuses.

Aging rhinitis: As one ages, the nasal mucus loses its water content and becomes increasingly thick and sticky. Patients complain of post-nasal drip, cough, and hoarseness; the condition is best treated with nasal irrigation and increased hydration.

Tumors: The presence of tumors in the sinuses is relatively uncommon. They are discovered with a nasal obstruction, often with heavy nosebleeds.

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PREVENTION

Sinusitis causes the linings of the sinuses (mucus membranes) to become swollen through contact with an allergen, virus, bacteria, or fungus. This swelling obstructs drainage and leads to a blockage that feeds bacteria, which then leads to an infection. Sinusitis may be short-lived and acute, or a long-standing, chronic condition. The duration and severity of sinusitis depends on the cause, or causes, and the predisposition of the individual.

There are no methods that have been scientifically tested and proven to prevent acute or chronic sinusitis. However, your health care provider may recommend a variety of measures that may provide you with some benefit.

TIPS TO HELP AVOID SINUSITIS

Some tips to help avoid developing sinusitis during a cold or allergy flare up include the following:

• Use an oral decongestant following the instructions of your health care provider and the manufacturer.



• Blow the nose gently, blocking one nostril while blowing through the other.



• Drink plenty of fluids to keep nasal discharge thin.



• Keep your nose as moist as possible with frequent use of saline (salt) sprays. Use salt water rinses once or twice a daily.



• Avoid very dry indoor environments and use a humidifier, if necessary. But be aware that if you have allergies to molds, house dust mites, or cockroaches, a humid environment may also create problems.



• Avoid air travel. You may find that air travel poses a problem if you are suffering from acute or chronic sinusitis. As air pressure in a plane is reduced, pressure can build up in your head, blocking your sinuses or the eustachian tubes in your ears. As a result, you might feel discomfort in your sinuses or middle ear during the plane's ascent or descent. Some health experts recommend using decongestant nose drops or sprays before a flight to avoid this problem. If it is necessary to fly, use an oral decongestant one hour before take-off to prevent blockage of the sinuses.



• Avoid contact with allergy triggers, or use prescription antihistamines and a nasal steroid spray to control allergy attacks. Avoid exposure to anything you are allergic to. If you have not been tested for allergies and you are getting frequent sinus infections, ask your health care provider to give you an allergy evaluation or to refer you to an allergy specialist.



• Avoid exposure to irritants, such as cigarette and cigar smoke or strong odors from chemicals.



• Avoid long periods of swimming in pools treated with chlorine, which irritates the lining of the nose and sinuses.



• Avoid water diving, which forces water into the sinuses from the nasal passages.

Note: Please read all directions and instructions accompanying over-the-counter medications. Consult your health care provider with any questions.

INFECTION CONTROL

Wash your hands often. Nasal secretions containing cold viruses contaminate the hands of people with colds as a result of nose blowing, covering sneezes, and touching the nose. Cold viruses can survive for several hours on hands, tissues, or hard surfaces. A healthy person can contract the virus by touching a contaminated surface, then touching his or her own mouth or nose. Virus on the fingers can also be transferred into the eye in a finger-to-eye contact. Virus deposited in the eye promptly goes down the tear duct into the nose. Once in the nose, a cold virus is transported by mucociliary action to the adenoid area where it starts a cold.

Using an antibiotic soap may prevent you from reinfecting yourself, but these soaps can also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, so it is best to use them only when necessary.

MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Handwashing Tips - Infection Control

Try not to spread the cold to your family or colleagues. Young children are the major reservoir of cold viruses and a particularly good source of virus containing nasal secretions. Refrain from close contact with loved ones. Even shaking hands is out; hand contact can spread the virus. Experiments have demonstrated that a cold virus readily transfers from the skin and hands of a cold sufferer to the hands and fingers of another person during periods of brief contact.

Flush tissues after they have been used. Because they harbor the virus, tissues can pass on the virus or cause you to reinfect yourself.

Avoid traveling (commuting) on congested trains, buses, subways, and other public transportation as much as possible. When people are cramped into tight places and have a cold, it is very possible to infect everyone around them. Well used transportation (like taxis) are full of infectious viruses and bacteria. You really don't know who was in the taxi just before you and what, if any, kind of infection they may have had. Carry portable, disposable wet wipes with you that can be used to clean hands and face if necessary. If you have a cold, cover your nose when you sneeze and cover your mouth when you cough, especially around other people.

Eat a well balanced diet and keep your immune system healthy.

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COMPLICATIONS

On rare occasions, acute sinusitis can result in brain infection and other serious complications. This creates a life-threatening emergency.

• Paranasal sinusitis can have devastating intracranial sequelae on rare conditions. Involvement of the adjacent pituitary gland and cavernous sinuses can result in serious neurological morbidity or mortality, and retrograde spread of infection through the basal venous system can result in subdural or parenchymal brain involvement. A high index of suspicion and aggressive medical and surgical treatment are crucial for patient survival, but the morbidity rate remains high.



• Intractable meningitis, intracranial abscess or cavernous sinus thrombosis could happen as a complication in a diabetic patient, arising from sphenoid sinusitis.

TREATMENT

CONVENTIONAL MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS

Because your nose can get stuffy when you have a condition like the common cold, you may confuse simple nasal congestion with sinusitis. A cold, however, usually lasts about 7 to 14 days and goes away without treatment. Acute sinusitis often lasts longer and typically causes more symptoms than a cold.

PHYSICAL EXAM

Your health care provider can usually diagnose acute sinusitis by noting your history, symptoms and doing a physical examination, which includes examining your nasal tissues. If your symptoms are vague or persist, your healthcare provider may order a computed tomography (CT) scan, a form of X-ray, to confirm that you have sinusitis. Because plain x-ray studies of the sinuses may be misleading and procedures such as CT scans and MRI scans, which are much more sensitive in their ability to diagnose sinus infection, are so expensive, most cases of sinus infection are initially diagnosed and treated based on clinical findings on examination.

These physical findings may include redness and swelling of the nasal passages, purulent (pus-like) drainage from the nasal passages, tenderness to percussion (tapping) over the cheeks or forehead region of the sinuses, and swelling about the eyes and cheeks. If sinus infection fails to respond to the initial treatment prescribed, then more in-depth studies such as the above scans may be performed.

Rhinoscopy, a procedure for directly looking in the back of the nasal passages with a small flexible fiber optic tube, may be used to directly look at the sinus openings and check for obstruction of these openings by either swelling or growths. It may sometimes be necessary to perform a needle aspiration of a sinus to confirm the diagnosis of sinus infection, and to get infected material to culture to determine what bacteria is actually causing the sinus infection.

Cultures of the nasal passages are rarely helpful in determining what bacteria or fungus is causing a sinus infection.

TESTS

Laboratory tests your healthcare provider may use to diagnose chronic sinusitis include:

• Blood tests to rule out conditions associated with sinusitis, like an immune deficiency disorder.



• A sweat test or a blood test to rule out cystic fibrosis.



• Tests on the material that is inside your sinuses to detect bacterial or fungal infection.



• Biopsy of the membranes (linings) of the nose or sinuses to determine the health of the cells lining these cavities.

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CONVENTIONAL MEDICAL TREATMENT

After diagnosing sinusitis and identifying a possible cause, your health care provider can suggest various treatments.

ACUTE SINUSITIS

If you have acute sinusitis, your healthcare provider may recommend

• Antibiotics to control a bacterial infection, if present. Even if you have acute sinusitis, your provider may choose not to use an antibiotic because many cases of acute sinusitis will end on their own. But if you do not feel better after a few days you should contact your provider again.



• Pain relievers to reduce any pain.



• Decongestants to reduce congestion. You should use over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription decongestant nose drops and sprays only for few days. If you use these medicines for longer periods, they can lead to even more congestion and swelling of your nasal passages.

If you have an allergic disease along with sinusitis, you may also need medicine to control allergies. This may include a nasal steroid spray that reduces the swelling around the sinus passages and allows the sinuses to drain. If you already have asthma and then get sinusitis, your asthma may worsen. You should stay in close touch with your health care provider to modify your asthma treatment if needed.

CHRONIC SINUSITIS

Health care providers often find it difficult to treat chronic sinusitis successfully. The two main forms of treatment that are used, nasal steroid sprays and long courses of oral antibiotics, alone or in combination, have not been rigorously tested in chronic sinusitis. Scientists need to do more research to determine what the best treatment is.

Many health care providers also recommend using saline (saltwater) washes or sprays in the nose to help remove thick secretions and allow the sinuses to drain.

If you have severe chronic sinusitis, your healthcare provider may prescribe oral steroids, such as prednisone. Because oral steroids are powerful medicines and can have significant side effects, you should take them only when other medicines have not worked.

SURGERY

When medicine fails, surgery may be the only alternative for treating chronic sinusitis. The goal of surgery is to improve sinus drainage and reduce blockage of the nasal passages. During surgery, which is usually done through the nose, the surgeon:

• Enlarges the natural opening of the sinuses.
• Removes any polyps.
• Corrects significant anatomic deformities that contribute to the obstruction.

Most people have fewer symptoms and better quality of life after surgery. In a substantial number of people, however, problems can recur after surgery, sometimes even after a short period of time.

In children, surgeons can sometimes eliminate sinus problems by removing adenoids (tissue in the back of the throat) that obstruct the nasal-sinus passages.

A relatively recent advance in the treatment of sinusitis is a type of surgery called functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS), whereby normal clearance from the sinuses is restored by removing the anatomical and pathological obstructive variations that predispose to sinusitis. This replaces prior open techniques requiring facial or oral incisions and refocuses the technique to the natural openings of the sinuses instead of promoting drainage by gravity, the idea upon which the Caldwell-Luc surgery was based.



Another recently developed treatment is balloon sinuplasty. This method, similar to balloon angioplasty used to "unclog" arteries of the heart, utilizes balloons in an attempt to expand the openings of the sinuses in a less invasive manner.

A new procedure lets health care providers snake a balloon up the noses of chronic sinusitis sufferers, stretching their sinus passages to help them breathe easier with less pain than the standard sinus surgery that 350,000 Americans undergo each year. No one yet knows if balloon sinuplasty works as well as a surgical fix. Only about 100 practitioners around the country are trained to offer it, and research is just beginning to track its effectiveness and determine who is a good candidate. But if sinuplasty proves itself, it promises a long-awaited middle ground between medications and surgery for thousands of patients seeking relief from the misery of repeated sinus infections. Sinuplasty will not replace surgery for every patient but there appears to be a large number of people who could benefit from this procedure.

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MEDICATIONS

There is a growing consensus that the control of the inflammation is the prime critical element in the treatment of sinusitis. Infections from bacterial or fungal organisms, allergy and other inflammatory conditions, such as autoimmune disease, may play a role in the majority of cases.

ANALGESICS

Analgesics (such as aspirin, paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen) can be used, but caution must be employed to make sure the patient does not suffer from aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) as this could lead to anaphylaxis.

The vast majority of cases resolve without antibiotics,[3] but antibiotics are often prescribed. Amoxicillin is a reasonable first choice[3] ANTIBIOTIC THERAPY

For sinusitis caused by virus infection, no antibiotic treatment is required. Frequently recommended treatments include pain and fever medications (such as acetaminophen/Tylenol) and decongestants.

Bacterial infection of the sinuses is suspected when facial pain, pus nasal discharge and symptoms persist for longer than a week and are not responding to over-the-counter nasal medications. Acute sinus infection from bacteria is usually treated with antibiotic therapy aimed at treating the most common bacteria known to cause sinus infection, since it is unusual to be able to get a reliable culture without aspirating the sinuses.

The five most common bacteria causing sinus infections are:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae.
• Haemophilus influenzae.
• Moraxella catarrhalis.
• Staphylococcus aureus.
• Streptococcus pyogenes.

The antibiotics that are effective treatment for sinus infection must be able to kill these bacterial types.

• Amoxicillin (Amoxil) is an acceptable first antibiotic for an uncomplicated acute sinus infection.



• In the penicillin allergic patient, cefaclor (Ceclor), loracarbef (Lorabid), clarithromycin (Biaxin), azithromycin (Zithromax), sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra) may be used as first choices.



• If a patient is not improving after five days of treatment with amoxicillin, the patient may be switched to one of the above drugs or amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin).

Generally an effective antibiotic needs to be continued for a minimum of 10-14 days. It is however not unusual to need to treat sinus infection for 14-21 days.

DECONGESTANTS, ANTIHISTAMINES & ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS

Taking decongestants (pseudoephedrine) and mucolytics (guaifenesin) orally may be helpful in assisting drainage of sinus infection. In general, antihistamines should be avoided unless it is felt that the sinus infection is due to allergy, such as from pollens, dander, or other environmental causes. It is likely that the use of a topical nasal steroid spray will help reduce swelling in the allergic individual without the drying that is caused by using antihistamines.

The treatment of chronic forms of sinus infection require longer courses of drugs such as Augmentin and may require a sinus drainage procedure. This drainage typically requires a surgical operation to open the blocked sinus under general anesthesia.

Oral (pills), nasally injected (with a needle) and topical (inhaled) cortisone like medicines are the most commonly utilized anti-inflammatory drugs.

Topical decongestants (like Afrin) can be used for short durations, and systemic decongestants (like Sudafed) may be employed for longer periods with some slight benefit to drainage.

Antihistamines are helpful in "drying up" allergies, but their contribution is hampered by the fact that thick, dry secretions are more likely to become colonized by bacteria, which leads to even more inflammation.

Other medicines, such as Singulair, are appealing because of their interference with known inflammatory mediators; however, since there are many other signals that sustain inflammation, these drugs have not had a major impact on chronic rhinosinusitis.

Biofilm formation by microorganisms in the mucus blanket allows organisms to flaunt the efforts of the immune system and antibiotics to eliminate them. Biofilms are a state of bacterial life characterized by the formation of a starch-like barrier to protect the encased organisms, which slow down their metabolic and growth behavior as well. Most sinus infections are associated with biofilm formation. Ehrle Antiadhesion substances, such as xylitol, show promise in preventing the attachment of organisms before they can form biofilms.

Washing out the nose with various salt water solutions is used to clean out thick or crusted secretions contaminated with organisms.

Do not give aspirin, or any product containing aspirin, to a child with symptoms of any viral infection, including a cold. This has been associated with Reye's Syndrome.

There are many over-the-counter cold medications available. None of them can actually cure a cold, although they may sometimes be helpful for alleviating symptoms (see below).

It is unlikely that a vaccine will ever be developed to prevent the common cold because the viruses responsible have the ability to change in size and shape, and have hundreds of different forms. However, research being conducted in Britain may provide hope for cold sufferers. An experimental drug, tremacamra, appears to block cold viruses from finding a docking site in the nasal passages. So far, the drug's success rate has been impressive, cutting the risk of infection by 33 percent and symptoms by 45 percent.

Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, but many people still ask their health care providers to prescribe them. It is important to understand that penicillin and most other antibiotics work only against bacterial infections. Viruses and bacteria may produce similar symptoms, but they are very different kinds of microbes and do not respond to the same treatment. In fact, because antibiotics kill off "good" bacteria together with the bad, antibiotics actually inhibit the body's efforts to defend itself against viral invasion.

If you become infected with bacterial sinusitis as a result of a common cold, this requires antibiotic treatment to reduce the duration of infection and illness and to prevent serious complications such as infection around the eye, bacterial meningitis, and brain abscess. Chronic sinus disease is thought to be another complication of untreated or inadequately treated acute bacterial sinusitis. Antibiotic treatment selected for acute sinusitis should be effective against most strains of pneumococcus and hemophilus. The recommended course of antibody treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis is 10-14 days. With proper antibiotic treatment, over 90 percent of cases of acute bacterial sinusitis are cured.

A 5-week study of 75 young adults deliberately infected with a cold virus revealed that those given the drug Naproxen (Naprosyn), which is commonly prescribed for arthritis, suffered almost a third fewer cold symptoms, such as headache and coughing, than those given a placebo.

COMMON COLD REMEDIES Americans spend more than $1 billion every year on non-prescription treatments for coughs and colds. At best, these products can offer only temporary relief. The following is a list of some of the most common types of cold remedies, and what they can and cannot do: ANALGESICS, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen, help to relieve aches and pains and to reduce fever. By themselves, cold do not usually cause significant fever. Allowing a low-grade fever to run its course may actually be beneficial; an elevated temperature is one of the body's ways of fighting infection. If you have a fever that reaches 102°F or higher, chances are something other than the cold is causing it. It may be a sign of a developing bacterial infection somewhere in the body that requires treatment. By reducing fever, analgesics may mask this sign. ANTIHISTAMINES decrease nasal secretions by blocking the action of histamine, a body chemical that causes the swelling of small blood vessels, which results in sneezing and runny nose. These products may make you drowsy. In addition, it is better to allow the secretions that contain the virus flow out of the body rather than trying to block them. COUGH MEDICATIONS come in two basic types: expectorants and antitussives. Expectorants make coughs more productive by increasing the amount of phlegm and decreasing its thickness. This helps remove irritants from respiratory airways. Guaifenesin, an expectorant found in many popular over-the-counter cough medicines, can be effective. The effectiveness of other over-the-counter expectorants is questionable. Antitussives reduce the frequency of coughing. An antitussive called dextromethorphan is generally considered reasonably safe and effective. It is often denoted by the initials "DM" on product labels. However, because coughing is the body's mechanism for clearing secretions from the lungs, it is probably best not to suppress it unless coughing is unusually severe or persistent, or is interfering with sleep. DECONGESTANTS shrink nasal blood vessels to relieve swelling and congestion. These medications can cause side effects including jitteriness, insomnia, and fatigue. Most over-the-counter cold remedies contain some combination of acetaminophen and various decongestants, antihistamines, and cough suppressants. Some experts believe that these ingredients may work against one another. For example, acetaminophen may increase nasal congestion, while the decongestant decreases it. If a cold is making you extremely uncomfortable and you feel you must take something for it, it is better to take a single-ingredient product appropriate for the particular symptom you are treating.

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RESEARCH

According to the National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases, at least two-thirds of sinusitis cases are caused by two bacteria, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. These bacteria also can cause otitis media (middle ear infection) in children as well as pneumonia and acute worsening of chronic bronchitis in people of all ages. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is supporting many studies to better understand how these bacteria infect as well as to identify potential candidates for future vaccine strategies that could eliminate these diseases.

A project supported by NIAID is developing an advanced "sinuscope" that will permit improved airway evaluation during a medical examination, especially when a doctor is considering surgical intervention.

Scientific studies have shown a close relationship between having asthma and sinusitis. For example, the vast majority of people with moderate to severe asthma also have chronic sinusitis. Health experts have suggested that chronic sinusitis and asthma may be the same disease manifested in two parts of the respiratory system: upper and lower.

NIAID conducts and supports research on asthma that will lead to a better understanding of the causes behind chronic bronchial inflammation in asthma. This will advance our understanding of the causes of chronic sinusitis and lead to the development of more effective treatments and ways to prevent the disease.

Scientists supported by NIAID and other institutions are also investigating whether chronic sinusitis has genetic causes. They have found that certain alterations in the gene that causes cystic fibrosis may increase the likelihood of developing chronic sinusitis. This research is giving scientists new insights into the cause of the disease in some people and points to new strategies for diagnosis and treatment.

Other NIAID-supported research is examining whether chronic sinusitis can be caused by an unusual reaction to fungi normally found inside the nose and the sinuses. One study has recently shown that when blood cells from people with chronic sinusitis are exposed to fungal material, those cells make chemicals that produce inflammation. This raises the possibility that fungi may play a role in some cases of chronic sinusitis. NIAID is supporting trials of antifungal drugs to determine whether, and for whom, this new treatment strategy holds promise.

For more information about clinical trials, see Clinical Trials for more information.

RELATED LINKS

National Library of Medicine
MedlinePlus
8600 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20894
1-888-FIND-NLM (1-888-346-3656) or 301-594-5983

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
555 East Wells Street, Suite 1100
Milwaukee, WI 53202-3823
1-800-822-ASMA (1-800-822-2762)

American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Inc.
One Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-3357
703-836-4444

American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology
85 West Algonquin Road, Suite 550
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
847-427-1200

National Jewish Medical and Research Center
1400 Jackson Street
Denver, CO 80206
1-800-222-LUNG (1-800-222-5864)

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SINUSITIS CONSIDERATION

If nasal secretions turn clear after a week, you probably do not have an infection. If the mucus is greenish or yellowish, you probably do. If secretions are clear and you have no other symptoms of a cold, you probably have allergies.

Antibiotics may be necessary to clear a bacterial infection. Always take antibiotics for the full course prescribed, even if symptoms seem to improve earlier. Stopping prematurely can lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria and a worse infection.

Sometimes health care providers prescribe antibiotics even if they cannot confirm a bacterial infection. The reasoning behind this is that it is very difficult to ascertain whether bacteria are causing sinusitis, and that it may be worth it to prevent a bacterial infection from appearing later. As with any medication, it is important to know the benefits, risks, and costs of using and of not using an antibiotic.

If sinus trouble is chronic and severe, and medication fails to relieve it, surgery may be needed to drain the sinuses, not only to relieve the discomfort, but to guard against serious consequences.

Endoscopic surgery, a treatment sometimes recommended for chronic, severe sinusitis, clears nasal passages without external incisions or scars. The procedure can be performed using local anesthesia and results in minimal pain and swelling.

While they are uncommon, polyps and benign cysts that retain mucus can develop in the sinuses, especially in the large maxillary or frontal sinuses. Intrusive or malignant growths require surgical removal.

Anyone suffering from unremitting sinusitis should consult a health care provider to rule out an underlying immune dysfunction. In a University of Miami study, 50 percent of chronic sinusitis patients were found to be suffering from immunologic disorders.

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HOLISTIC, NUTRITIONAL & HERBAL THERAPY

Holistic, nutritional and herbal therapy is not meant to replace conventional medical treatment but it can be used to help build up the body and the immune system to prevent infections or to lessen their impact on the body, including the sinuses. Consult with your health care provider or herbalist if you have questions about which complementary therapies can be beneficial for your particular situation. Keep in mind, some of these therapies may not be compatible with medications you may be taking. Again, consult your health care provider if you are on drug therapy for any health condition before using these recommendations.

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HERBS

COMMON SENSE INFECTION CONTROL

As it continues to get colder and wetter outside, it is good to have some warming herbs and roots available and some healing herbal teas to soothe the symptoms of colds and flu. Often at this time of year, a lot of people tend to get a bit run down, partly caused by over extending yourself during the Holidays, and partly due to being in and out of bad weather. This is a good time to start building yourself up with some natural remedies and work on building your immune system with a herbs, supplements, and good, healthy diet.

Hygiene Tip: A simple hygiene tip is if you are around people with colds, wash your hands often and try not to touch your nose, mouth, or eyes. Viruses travel readily along this contact route.

Enhance Immunity: If you have a weak immune system or your colds tend to lead to sinusitis or bronchitis, or if you have sinusitis, try these herbs and therapies:

Anise, Fenugreek, Marshmallow and Red Clover help to loosen phlegm and clear congestion.

Herbal Remedies: Anise Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Fenugreek Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Marshmallow Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Supplements & Products

Astragalus, like Echinacea, stimulates (promotes) the multiplication of the white blood cells and their activity. Astragalus is native to Mongolia and China. Echinacea boosts the immune system and fights viral infections.

Herbal Remedies: Astragalus Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Supplements & Products

Bayberry is a decongestant and astringent.

Herbal Remedies: Bayberry Supplements & Products

Bitter Orange Oil (Neroli Oil) can be used to swab nasal passage for local relief.

Herbal Remedies: Bitter Orange (Neroli) Supplements & Products

Cat's Claw is useful for easing the symptoms of a cold. Cat's Claw Defense Complex contains a combination of herbs designed to strengthen the body and help the body deal with outside elements. Caution: Do not use Cat's Claw during pregnancy.

Herbal Remedies: Cat's Claw Supplements & Products

Chuan Xin Lian, a Chinese herbal remedy also known as Andrographis Anti-Inflammatory Tablets, clears the mucus from the respiratory tract.

Clear Lungs formula contains Chinese herbal ingredients to restore free breathing, ease mucus accumulation, and enhance tissue repair.

Eucalyptus Oil is helpful for relieving congestion. Put 5 drops in a hot bath, or put 6 drops in a cup of boiling water and inhale the fumes.

ESSENTIAL OILS Pine-Needle, Peppermint, Eucalyptus and Thyme Oils have proven effective in the treatment of viral infections. Inhaling the vapors opens a stuffy nose, easing breathing; this is soothing to inflamed mucous membranes, as well. Pine needles and thyme also encourage expectoration. To get these beneficial effects, place a few drops of one of the essential oils (above) on a handkerchief and inhale the aroma as deeply as possible. You can also profit from the antiseptic effects of these oils by bathing in them or by using steam inhalations; be sure to dilute first.

Fenugreek Seeds and Thyme is an herbal remedy that helps to rid nasal passages of mucus. These can be ground and put into Gel Caps. Take 2 capsules 3 times daily.

Fenu-Thyme Formula supplement relieves nasal and sinus congestion. Take 2 capsules 3 times daily.

Herbal Remedies: Fenu-Thyme, Fenugreek Supplement, Nature's Way, 350 mg, 100 Caps

Licorice, an antiviral herb soothes respiratory passages.

Garlic. Vampires and colds beware, the silver bullet has arrived. Garlic is one of the few herbs found useful for ALL disorders of the human body and there is no other herb with Garlic's' powerful antiseptic-antibiotic properties. It protects against all infectious ailments, expels all toxic elements, and kills harmful bacteria. It is helpful in lowering blood pressure. Garlic is really this good, the catch is that it is most effective eaten raw. It is good for you in soups and sauces, on breads, and in salad dressings. But eaten raw, it provides a total healing, detoxifying, purification. It slightly burns the mouth, but it is certainly not repulsive. Try it over a weekend when you do not have a lot of social plans if you are worried about smelling like garlic. Eating fresh parsley and mint afterwards will help, but it does tend to seep out in your perspiration (my daughter always knows when I am coming down with a cold or the flu because I smell like garlic... but it works great, regardless of the smell!). However, even knowing the scented side effects, if you ate raw garlic at the onset of any illness, you would save yourself a multitude of money, suffering, and misery, by way of health care provider visits, prescription drugs, and missed work.

Herbal Remedies: Garlic Supplements & Products

Ginger Root can be crushed and applied as a poultice to the forehead and nose to stimulate circulation and drainage.

Herbal Remedies: Ginger Supplements & Products

Goldenseal is effective in combating sinusitis. Its benefits can be enhanced by combining it with 250 to 500 mg of Bromelain, an enzyme present in fresh pineapple. Goldenseal can be taken as a tea, or the tea can be used as a intranasal douche. Or put a dropperful of alcohol-free goldenseal extract in your mouth, swish it around for a few minutes, then swallow. Do this 3 times daily. Caution: Do not take goldenseal internally on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, do not use it during pregnancy, and use it with caution if you are allergic to ragweed.

Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Supplements & Products

Hyssop , an evergreen that can be taken as a tea, acts as an expectorant and has antiviral properties.

Herbal Remedies: Hyssop Supplements & Products

Mullein is useful for coughs and congestion. Mullein reduces inflammation and soothes irritation.

Herbal Remedies: Mullein Supplements & Products

Nettle is good for all types of allergies and respiratory problems.

Herbal Remedies: Nettle Supplements & Products

Olive Leaf extract has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Herbal Remedies: Olive Leaf Herb, Nature's Way, 470 mg, 100 Caps

Peppermint herb or a drop or two of Peppermint Oil or Peppermint Extract Tincture added to a hot cup of water will help open sinuses and help breathing congestion. Drink hot and several times a day.

Herbal Remedies: Peppermint, Mint, Menthol Supplements & Products

Red Clover helps clear accumulated toxins in the lymphatic system that may cause congestion and inflammation.

Herbal Remedies: Red Clover Supplements & Products

Rose Hips are an excellent source of Vitamin C and other valuable nutrients.

Herbal Remedies: Rose Hips Supplements & Products

Tea Tree Oil. For a sore throat, add 3 to 6 drops of pure Tea Tree Oil to warm water and gargle. Repeat this up to 3 times daily. Take up to 2 tea tree oil lozenges and allow them to dissolve slowly in your mouth. Repeat this treatment as often as required, alternating it with Goldenseal Root Extract Tincture.

Herbal Remedies: Tea Tree Essential Oil, 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.

Wild Cherry bark soothes a cough.

Herbal Remedies: Wild Cherry Extract Tincture, Herbal Remedies USA, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Wild Cherry Bark, Old Indian Syrup With Echinacea, Planetary Herbals, 4 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Wild Cherry Bark, Old Indian Syrup With Echinacea, Planetary Herbals, 8 fl. oz.

MORE HERBAL RECOMMENDATIONS TO FIGHT COLDS AND OTHER UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS

At the first sign of a cold, use an Alcohol-free Echinacea and Goldenseal Combination Extract Tincture to boost your immune system and keep the virus from multiplying. For adults, place 1 dropperful in the mouth, hold it for 5 minutes, then swallow. Do this every 3 hours for 3 days. For children, place 8 to 10 drips in the mouth, hold it for a few minutes (or as long as the child can manage), then swallow. Do this every 2 hours for 3 days. Then take 8 to 10 drops in liquid daily until symptoms are gone. Besides beating colds, flu, bronchitis, and other upper respiratory infections, Echinacea is good for clearing up strep throat. Caution: Do not take Goldenseal on a daily basis for more than one week at a time, and do not use during pregnancy. If you have a history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or glaucoma, use it only under a health care provider's supervision.

Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Supplements & Products

The polysaccharides found in the herb Echinacea have been shown to enhance the immune system. Use Echinacea Extract or make Echinacea Tea from the herb.

Herbal Remedies: Echinacea Supplements & Products

For fever, take Catnip tea enemas and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of Lobelia Tincture every 3 to 4 hours until fever drops. This dosage can be used for children also.

MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Catnip Tea Enema

Herbal Remedies: Catnip Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Lobelia Supplements & Products

Ephedra (ma huang) is helpful for congestion and coughing. Caution: Do not use this herb if you suffer from anxiety, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, or insomnia, or if you are taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor drug for depression.

Drink antiviral teas. Eyebright, Elder-Flower, Linden-Blossom and Lemon Balm teas are all antiviral and sweat-inducing, helping to activate the body's own powers of resistance. Try drinking one of these teas at the very first sign of cold symptoms. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herbs and allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink 1 cup, very hot, several times daily.

Herbal Remedies: Eyebright Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Linden Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Lemon Balm Supplements & Products

Ginger, Pau D'Arco, Slippery Elm, and Yarrow tea can help the common cold. Known world wide as a digestive aid, Ginger is one of the finest treatments available. Its roots are readily available in all stores this time of year and it is not expensive. A mild ginger tea can be used as an overall nerve tonic and digestive aid. In case you haven't noticed, usually when you are nervous or stressed, your stomach does not work properly. Ginger is the treatment of choice. For a persistent cough, cut about an inch of ginger root, and chop, steep for four hours in four cups of off boil water with a little lemon and honey to taste. Drink a half cup of this tea three times a day, particularly before going to bed. Ginger tea is known to stimulate digestive juices, expel worms, and cure colds, sore throats, diarrhea, and nausea. I also enjoy making ginger-milk just before bed. Warm the milk with the fresh cut ginger root in it and let it steep and then drink it down. If feels good on my stomach and heats my body up. The warm milk acts as a nice sedative.

Herbal Remedies: Ginger Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Slippery Elm Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Yarrow Supplements & Products

Sweat therapy helps the body produce a temporary fever that will destroy microbes, including viruses. Increased sweating flushes out waste products, lowering the risk of secondary bacterial infections and relieving congestion and headaches. One good sweat treatment: While in a hot bath, drink several cups of ginger tea with honey and lemon.

Herbal Remedies: Ginger Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Honey Supplements & Products

Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annuum). Its name comes from the Greek work kapto, meaning I Bite! But because it is an antispasmodic as well as a stimulant, it is known to be intensely helpful in treating heart attacks. Most naturopathic physicians carry a cayenne tincture in their medical kit at all times. In Mexico it is frequently used as a seasoning because of its antibacterial qualities. Cayenne water to drink is great for sinus infections. Take it three times a day and within two days you should be feeling better. Cayenne is a potent stimulant and increases blood flow throughout the body making it an excellent remedy for colds and flu. As your circulation becomes more stimulated, you will notice a tendency to perspire, literally forcing the invading organisms out of your system. My favorite cold-flu remedy is a cayenne cocktail. This involves taking tomato or a blended vegetable juice (V-8-Like), preferably fresh prepared using a juicer, but canned will work in a pinch, and heat it until it is warm, like tea. Put it in a coffee mug and add about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper to the juice. Stir well and drink. It will be very warm and spicy to taste. Drink it while hot. You should begin to feel your congestion beginning to break up (such as your nose running) and it actually feels good on a sore throat. It will warm you stomach and your body, making you sweat. Drink several cups full during the day and before bed. It is a good remedy for when you are chilled from being outside (such as shoveling your sidewalk during a snow-storm) and you need to warm up on the inside quickly.

Cayenne is fairly hearty and easy to grow. Just put the little plants out in partial sun and keep them watered. As your peppers ripen you can tie them together on a long string and hang them in your kitchen for a nice decoration as they dry. When dry, you can use them one at a time as a seasoning or as a medicine. Just remove the seeds, chop the skins up in the blender and sprinkle a little of the powder in your chili or rice dishes , or mix with water and make a very dilute solution of pepper water and drink at the onset of any cold or flu. A word of caution must be given about handling these hot peppers (or any hot peppers, such as Jalapenos), once you touch them you need to scrub your hands, preferably with hot water and soap, to remove the pepper oils off of your fingers. Do not rub your eyes or any delicate skin tissue until you are sure you hands are clean. They can burn and irritate your eyes and other sensitive body parts. Also when you chop them in a blender, DO NOT BREATHE IN THE POWDER! Let the dust settle before you open the lid.

Herbal Remedies: Cayenne / Capsicum Supplements & Products

For throat infections, teas made from Sage, Myrrh, Thyme or Goldenseal soothe and tighten swollen mucus-secreting tissues in the mouth and throat and inhibit the growth of viruses and bacteria. Pour 1 cup of hot water over one of these herbs. Steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Gargle several times daily with the warm tea.

Herbal Remedies: Sage Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Myrrh Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Thyme Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Supplements & Products

Sage (Salvia Officinalis). Sage takes its name from the Latin, meaning 'to be well', or 'to save'. Sage is considered a cure-all, especially for throat and lung disorders. It is a remarkable remedy for the mind and is known as a memory enhancing Herb. The elderly would benefit very well from a cup of sage tea twice a day to keep the mind and memory sharp. Sage tea is also a wonder for all digestive ailments including obesity. The Bedouins were known to scrub their teeth with a sage leaf every day to remove stains and keep the gums in good health. Sage should not be used if you are breastfeeding since it can help dry up your milk supply.

Sage likes the sun and a little bit drier conditions; however it is hearty in the Herb garden and pest resistant. You can place your leaves flat, in a basket, place them in a well ventilated moderately sunny, window and use them all winter long as needed for teas, (one teaspoon per cup of water.) Use for seasoning turkey stuffing, or savory broths, and soups. Use for a gargle with warm water for a sore throat. Trying to loose a few pounds? Try adding to your water bottle some sage and fennel water, it will help. Just make a tonic by putting water in the sun for several hours with sage and fennel leaves, or pour hot, not boiling water over the leaves and let it steep just for an hour. You will have a lovely, gentle weight loss tonic.

Herbal Remedies: Sage Supplements & Products

Extra Tip - Cider vinegar, Horseradish and Honey are proven remedies for colds. They contain expectorant components that inhibit the growth of bacteria, fight infection and speed healing. Mix 1 teaspoon of freshly ground horseradish with 1 tablespoon each of cider vinegar and honey. Take 1 teaspoon of the mixture, 4 times daily.

Shaman Shop: Starwest Botanicals Horseradish Root Powder, 1 lb. Bulk Herbs

Herbal Remedies: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (Mother), Organic, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Honey Supplements & Products

Wild Pansy (Viola Tricolor) grows wild in Europe, North Africa, the Near East, and parts of North America. When prepared as a tea or cough syrup, it is a good remedy for the common cold accompanied by fever, and for upper respiratory congestion. This is especially true if you have a dry cough along with the congestion. It has a high concentration of rutin, which strengthens capillary walls, and may have some beneficial effect in reducing arteriosclerosis. To make tea, pour 2 cups of hot water over 2 teaspoons of wild pansy and steep for 10 minutes. Strain. Drink a cup of the tea every 2 or 3 times a day after meals for a period of 8 weeks. As a cough syrup, make an infusion by adding 1-1/2 tablespoons of tea to 3/4 cup of water and 1-1/2 tablespoons of syrup. Take 1 tablespoon of this mixture 3 times daily.

Shaman Shop: Violet Leaf / Wild Pansy (Viola Tricolor), Cut & Sifted, 1 lb. Bulk Herbs

Shaman Shop: Herbal Extracts, Violet Leaf / Wild Pansy (Viola Tricolor), Powdered, 1/2 lb. Bulk Herbs

Boneset, a Native American herb, may be used to treat a fever.

Herbal Remedies: Boneset Supplements & Products

COMMON COLD REMEDY

The following is a recipe from Omaha Pagans to cure the common cold. Mix equal parts of the following herbs and place the mixture in capsules. Normal dosage is 2 or 3 capsules, 2 to 3 times per day. Caution: Do not mix this in a blender.

• Cayenne Pepper (Powdered)
• Goldenseal Root (Powdered)
• Burdock Root (Powdered)
• Marshmallow Root (Powdered)

Herbal Remedies: Cayenne Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Goldenseal Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Burdock Supplements & Products

Herbal Remedies: Marshmallow Supplements & Products

HOT LEMON TEA

If you are awake because you are coming down with a cold we recommend a steaming mug of hot lemonade. It's easy to make - you simply pour boiling water into a mug that contains the juice of half a fresh lemon along with a teaspoon of honey. It is quite delicious and soothing besides.

HOT CITRUS & LIQUOR/LIQUEUR COLD REMEDY

Take the juice of one grapefruit, one orange and one lemon. Bring to a boil, stir in a teaspoon of honey and a jigger of your favorite liquor - or liqueur. Absolutely delicious and effective for a nasty cold.

Herbal Remedies: Honey Supplements & Products

ELDERBERRY COLD REMEDY

Pure Elderberry Juice or Elderberry Extract added to water, heated it up, with added lemon juice and honey. Drink two cups before retiring. The hot tea from the flowers and/or juice from the berries promotes sweating, preferable adding on lemon juice and honey and is soothing for the upper respiratory infections, also considered to be anti-rheumatic, laxative and detoxifying. Twenty percent of flu sufferers who used it showed significant relief of fever, muscle aches, sore throat, inflammation, coughing and other symptoms within 24 hours, and another 73 percent felt better after the second day.

Elderberry is recommended for upper respiratory infections and headaches associated with colds. It promotes sweating and can help to break a fever. Research has found that elderberry is effective against colds because it contains antioxidant flavonoids that protect cell walls against foreign substances.

Herbal Remedies: Elderberry Supplements & Products

BLACK CURRANT TEA

Pour boiling water over black currant fruit jam. Black Currant tea should be taken at the first sniff or cough of a cold.

Herbal Remedies: Black Currant Oil, 500 mg, NOW Foods, 100 SoftGels

Shaman Shop: Starwest Botanicals Black Currant Tea, Certified Organic, 1 lb. Herbal Teas

HOME COLD REMEDIES RECOMMENDED BY OUR NOMADIC FRIENDS (Gypsies & Others)

Nomadic tribes, with their migratory way of life, are more exposed to the elements than those of us who live in solid houses. This has made them experts in treating colds and the flu, sore throats, bronchitis, and illnesses triggered by hypothermia. These are good remedies for those of us who have to be out in the winter elements in our jobs or even shoveling snow.

If someone comes down with one of the many symptoms of a cold, do not look at the runny nose or the sore throat. Symptoms are a sign of a general ailment and we must realize that they are part of a whole. We must give the organism of the sick person the support it needs to fight the infection effectively from the inside.

Nomadic people do not take a cold lightly. They make sure that even such a trivial illness, like a runny nose, is well treated and properly cured. Most important is absolute bedrest! Although for us, with our fast and busy paced days, absolute bedrest will be considered a nuisance; but only in bed, where warmth supports perspiration, can a cold be treated successfully. Sometimes it might take only a few hours.

Wrap the patient in a "Spanish coat". The wrap can be a robe-like garment made from pure linen. It aids perspiration, which opens the pores and helps the body rid itself of illness-causing germs. Start right away with one helping of Thyme-Iodine Tonic and Acid Air Remedy. Drink plenty of fresh orange juice or any other freshly squeezed fruit juice with lots of vitamin A and C. Fresh Carrot juice is absolutely recommended. Drink lots of liquids to flush out toxins through the kidneys. These can be herb teas, water or warm broths. To increase kidney activity, drink a Dog Rose (Rosa Canina) & Chamomile tea blend. To generate new energy take Heal-Everything Tonic.

MoonDragon's Nutrition Therapy: Juicing

Herbal Remedies: Elderberry Supplements & Products

Shaman Shop: Starwest Botanicals, Rosa Canina Rose Hips, Cut & Sifted, 1 lb. Bulk Herbs

ROSE HIP SYRUP

The recipe distributed by The British Ministry of Food, 1943: 'The Hedgerow Harvest' for 2 pounds (900gm) of rose hips (Rosa Canina is recommended):

• Boil 3 pints (1.7 liters) of boiling water.
• Mince hips in a course mincer (food processor) and put immediately into the boiling water.
• Bring to boil and then place aside for 15 minutes.
• Pour into a flannel or linen crash jelly bag and allow to drip until the bulk of the liquid has come through.
• Return the residue to the saucepan, add 1-1/2 pints (852 ml) of boiling water, stir and allow to stand for 10 minutes.
• Pour back into the jelly bag and allow to drip.
• To make sure all the sharp hairs are removed put back the first half cupful of liquid and allow to drip through again.
• Put the mixed juice into a clean saucepan and boil down until the juice measures about 1-1/2 pints (852 ml), then add 1-1/4 (560 grams) of sugar and boil for a further 5 minutes.
• Pour into hot sterile bottles and seal at once.

The resulting syrup can be used as a flavoring for milk puddings, ice-cream or almost any sweet, or diluted as a drink.

Hints:

If corks are used these should have been boiled for 1/4 hour just previously and after insertion coated with melted paraffin wax.

It is advisable to use small bottles as the syrup will not keep for more than a week or two once the bottle is opened.

Store in a dark cupboard.

Shaman Shop: Health & Herbs, Rosa Canina Rose Hips Extract, 2 fl. oz.

Shaman Shop: Starwest Botanicals, Rosa Canina Rose Hips, Cut & Sifted, 1 lb. Bulk Herbs

Shaman Shop: Starwest Botanicals, Rosa Canina Rose Hips Powder, Certified Organic, 1 lb. Bulk Herbs

An illness, like a cold, will take a different course for different people. However, it will always take the route through a person's weak spot (for me it is my lungs). This is why one remedy is more effective for one person than another. It is also recommended to switch between remedies, teas, inhalations, liniments, because this will stimulate the body's immune system.

ACID AIR REMEDY

Mix apple or wine vinegar with water at a ratio of one to two (1 part vinegar with 2 parts water). Bring mixture to a boil and let it evaporate in the bedroom.

COLDS & CHILLS, BRONCHITIS RECIPES

Thyme-Iodine Tonic
Pine Resin Milk
Anise-Willow Bark Tea
Onion Milk
Dog Rose-Chamomile Tea
Yarrow-Elderberry Tea


COUGH & SORE THROAT RECIPES

Cough Remedy Tea
Lemon-Salt Gargle
Cough Salve
Honey Candy
Eucalyptus Facial Steam

SINUS INFECTIONS & LARYNGITIS RECIPES

Thyme Steam
Lemon Oil
Heal Everything Tonic

THYME-IODINE TONIC

Use 1 tablespoon of Thyme per cup of water. Pour boiling water over thyme. Steep for 13 minutes. Let cool to lukewarm, and add 2 drops of iodine.
This tonic should be taken only once!Caution:People with hyperthyroidism should not take this remedy.

This is truly a magical tonic. It sets a wave in motion that may stop infectious germs in their tracks. But do not delay taking this tonic even for just an hour...as in all things, timing must be right.



ANISE-WILLOW BARK TEA

• Anise
• Linden blossoms
• Black Elderberry blossoms
• Rosemary
• Willow bark, ground

Mix 1 handful of anise, linden blossom, black elderberry blossoms, and rosemary with 1 tablespoon of ground willow bark. Use one tablespoon per cup of tea. Cover mixture with boiling water. Steep for 13 minutes. Sip one cup of tea two or three times a day. This tea will make you sweat/perspire. Therefore, the patient must remain in bed. After the sweating has subsided, quickly rub the patient with a sponge dipped in cold water and wrap him or her in a previously warmed towel.

DOG ROSE-CHAMOMILE TEA

• Dog Rosehips
• Chamomile blossoms
• Juniper berries
• Italian Parsley Root

Mix 1 handful of dog rose hips with 1/4 handful of parsley root and cut into small pieces. Add one handful each of the blossoms and the berries. For one cup of tea, cover 1 tablespoon of the mixture with boiling water. Steep for 13 minutes. Drink 1 to 3 cups of tea daily. This tea stimulates the kidneys.

YARROW-ELDERBERRY TEA

• Yarrow, leaves and flower tops
• Elderberry Flowers
• Peppermint

Mix yarrow, elderberry and peppermint and cover mixture with boiling water. Steep for 13 minutes. Drink tea frequently with absolute bedrest!

ONION MILK

• Onions
• Clove
• Brown sugar
• Thyme twig
• Milk

Slice three large onions, discarding only the very outer skin, and layer them in a pot. Add 1 clove, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 twig of thyme. Cover with water and simmer at least 2 hours. Strain and squeeze out the onion juice through a cheese cloth. Mix 1/2 cup of onion juice to 1/2 cup of hot milk. Drink 2 to 3 cups daily.

PINE RESIN MILK

• Pine Resin ( Frankincense Resin)
• Lavender Oil
• Honey
• Milk

Dissolve 1 teaspoon of pine resin, 1 drop of lavender oil, and 1 spoonful of honey in 1 cup of warm milk. Drink 1 cup three times daily.

Frankincense resin powder added to water or a tea is traditionally used to treat coughs. Modern research confirms that it contains phytochemicals that stop the production of leukotrienes that cause constricted airways and inflammation. Frankincense is often described as a stimulant, but its action are only similar to those of stimulants in relieving the symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, colds, and flu. For asthma, bronchitis, coughs, colds, flu, and laryngitis, use 2-3 drops of essential oil or tincture in 1 ounce of carrier oil. Rub the mixture or use as a plaster on chest for asthma, bronchitis, coughs, and cold, and on throat for laryngitis. You can also add 2-3 drops to vaporizer water for use in steam inhalation.

COUGH TEA REMEDY

• Thyme
• Eucalyptus leaves
• Sage
• Black Elderberry Blossoms

Mix one handful of thyme and eucalyptus leaves and 1/2 handful sage and black elderberry blossoms. Steep in boiling water for 13 minutes. Drink one cup three to six times daily.

COUGH SALVE

Mix 1/2 cup each of Pine Resin (Frankincense Resin) and cold-pressed Olive Oil to a creamy consistency. Add 7 drops of Thyme Oil. Smooth the salve onto the chest and back, cover with cotton padding, and wrap the upper body warmly.

EUCALYPTUS OIL INHALATION THERAPY

Eucalyptus oil is helpful for relieving congestion. Put 5 drops in a hot bath, or put 6 drops in 2 cups of boiling water and inhale the steam. It is best to remove the boiling water from the stove, then place a towel over your head and inhaled deeply through your nose for 3 to 5 minutes (be careful not to get too close to the source of the hot steam - it can cause burns). Rosemary and Sage Oils can be added to the Eucalyptus Oil to aid in breaking up congestion.

EUCALYPTUS-CYPRESS FACIAL STEAM

Grind 1 handful of Cypress Fruits (Cupressus sempervirens) or use a few drops of Cypress Oil with a wooden mortar and pestle. Cut up 1 handful of Eucalyptus Leaves (or Eucalyptus Oil) and mix. Add 2 quarts of cold water. Bring to boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain.
Hold your face over the steam and inhale deeply. Cover your head with a towel so the steam cannot escape.

Cypress Oil, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz.

LEMON-SALT GARGLE

Mix the juice of a lemon with 1 pinch of Sea Salt. Add 1 tablespoon of the mixture to a glass of water. Gargle a few times daily.

HONEY CANDY

Chew on a thumb-size piece of honeycomb as long as possible. Discard leftover wax from the comb. Use the Lemon-Salt Gargle and Honey Candy together.



THYME STEAM

Make a thyme tea with 1 handful of Thyme; let boil for three minutes. Remove from flame, strain, and add 5 drops of Bergamot Oil. With a towel covering your head, inhale the steam.

GARLIC-LEMON OIL

Crush 2 garlic cloves in a small bowl, add two tablespoons of olive oil, and mix well. Add juice of one lemon to the oil in small drops. Take 1 teaspoon three times a day. This remedy has been well tested by people who use their voices with gusto - laughing, singing, & talking.

HEAL EVERYTHING TONIC

This tonic is assigned to the Sun. It gets its power from the mistletoe that grows on oak trees. About two thousand years ago, Druids, as the white-clad priests of the Celtic tribes were called, worshipped this unusual evergreen plant with its pale berries. They considered them to possess magical powers. Harvesting the plant must be exactly timed to the night of the full moon that follows the winter solstice. It is important to harvest the plant on this particular night, since the best energies are then available to the plant. This tonic is a preventative. Take it even in the absence of any problems, because it strengthens the heart and the circulatory system. It also stimulates the metabolism. If your blood-pressure is too high, it will help to lower it, if it is too low, it will help to raise it. Heal Everything Tonic activates the body's immune system, increases the strength of body and mind, gives us courage and health, and helps us defend ourselves against diseases. Belief in the mistletoe plant's magical powers runs through European folklore. In Germany it is known by various names - witch bride - thunder-broom - evergreen - wintergreen - wood-of-the-cross - and healing-all-ailments. In English it is sometimes called heal-all and devil's fugue.

Caution: Mistletoe berries are poisonous; do not eat them.

HEAL-EVERYTHING TONIC RECIPE

2 handfuls European Mistletoe leaves

7 Garlic Cloves

Dry White Wine

Beeswax

Immediately after they are picked, crush two handful of mistletoe leaves by hand into small pieces and fill a dark brown bottle with them. Add 7 garlic cloves, fill the bottle with dry, white wine, close the top with a natural cork and seal with beeswax. The bottle is then buried one foot deep in the ground and left for 28 days. Point the top of the bottle towards east. After one moon cycle the tonic will have matured. Take one liqueur glass of the tonic twice daily, in the morning on an empty stomach and at night before retiring. Caution: Mistletoe berries are poisonous; do not eat them.

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Try homeopathic remedies to alleviate sinusitis symptoms.

Belladonna is good for infections accompanied by fever and pain in the face and forehead.

Herbal Remedies: Belladonna Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets

Kali Bichromicum is useful if there is an overabundance of mucus in the throat.

Herbal Remedies: Kali Bich. (Kali Bichromicum) Homeopathic, Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets

Consider using homeopathic remedies for cold symptoms. Check with a homeopathic practitioner for exact dosages.

Calcarea Carbonica is excellent for sore throats, colds and bronchitis.

Anas Barbarine (also available as Oscilococcinum from Boiron), Ferrum phosphicum (if there is a fever, and HP2 from Metagenics (a liquid homeopathic combination remedy) are also good for treating the common cold.

Bryonia 30C for chest colds with irritability and raw-feeling sinuses.

Aconitum 6C for severe symptoms at a cold's onset, dry fever, restlessness, hard pulse and thirst.

Allium Cepa 6C for profuse burning, watery nasal drip and watery eyes.

Gelsemium 6C for lethargy, headaches, fever with chills and swollen tonsils.

Take 5-10 pellets 3 times daily until the symptoms subside.

RELATED LINKS

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Common Colds

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Influenza (The Flu)

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Pneumonia

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Allergies

MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hay Fever

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RECOMMENDATIONS

When your immune system weakens from factors such as stress and a poor diet, viruses, bacteria, and fungal infections can take hold. These organisms are opportunistic and many lie dormant in the body, taking h old when the immune system is at its weakest.

Stress is often a factor in a weakened immune system. Reduce your stress as much as possible.

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet consisting of 75 percent raw fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and little, if any animal proteins, especially red meats.

Drink plenty of distilled or quality water and fresh vegetable and fruit juices. Also consume plenty of hot liquids such as soups and herbal teas. These help the mucus to flow, relieving congestion and sinus pressure. Adding Cayenne, garlic, ginger, horseradish, and raw onion to soups or teas may bring even faster relief. (see Herbs for more suggestions).

Sip hot liquids such as turkey or chicken broth. You should add lots of fresh garlic, fresh chopped onions, and cayenne pepper to your broth. These add extra cold-fighting attributes to the liquid. Drink hot herbal teas, such as echinacea tea, ginger tea (ginger root slices in hot water or hot milk) or fresh lemon juice in hot water.

Drink Potato Peeling Broth twice a day - make it fresh daily. You can add a carrot or a stalk of celery to your drink. Again, adding fresh garlic and onions with cayenne pepper will enhance it's healing capabilities.

MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Therapeutic Liquids

MoonDragon's Nutrition Therapy: Juicing

Do not eat dairy foods, except for low-fat soured products like yogurt and cottage cheese. Dairy products increase mucus formation.

MoonDragon's Nutrition Recipes: Homemade Yogurt

TO STRENGTHEN RESISTANCE High doses of vitamin C may help the body fight off incipient infections. Echinacea Extracts and zinc also boost resistance, helping to prevent and treat viral infections. Include extra C-rich foods in your diet - Rose Hips, Lemons, and Black Currants, for example. Take Vitamin C, Echinacea or Zinc as soon as you feel a cold coming on.

Zinc lozenges taken as often as every two hours at the beginning of a cold may help reduce the length of time you have the cold (from 9 days average to 4 days average). Medical researchers at Dartmouth College gave a group of 35 cold sufferers zinc lozenges, and told these individuals to take a lozenge as often as every 2 hours. Another 35 cold sufferers were given placebos. The zinc takers' colds subsided in an average of 4 days, while the control group struggled with their colds for another 9 days.

Take vitamin C and zinc lozenges at the first sign of a sore throat or stuffiness in the head or nose. This can shorten the duration of a cold, and may even stop it altogether. The possibility for real cold relief may lie in substances such as interferons, natural proteins that the body produces in response to viral infection. Interferons seen to improve the respiratory tract's ability to ward off viruses. Vitamin C promotes interferon production. Take the Zinc-Vitamin C lozenges every 2-3 hours for the first day of cold symptoms. Continue every 3 hours until symptoms subside.

Herbal Remedies: Zinc Lozenges With Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges

Bovine colostrum, taken in the cold and flu season, may help to ward off infection.

Herbal Remedies: Colostrum, 480 mg, 120 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Colostrum Chewables, Natural Vanilla Flavor, 480 mg, 90 Chewables

Herbal Remedies: Super Strength FarmFresh Colostrum Chewables, Natural Vanilla Flavor, 480 mg, 60 Chewables

Herbal Remedies: Colostrum, Bovine, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 120 Caps

Herbal Remedies: Colostrum, Bovine Supplement, 100% Pure Powder, NOW Foods, 3 oz.

To Encourage Mucous Membrane Circulation: Brush your tongue with a toothbrush 2 or 3 times daily to improve circulation in the mucous membranes. This helps defend against infection and reduces cold symptoms. also irrigate your nasal passages with salt water (gargling with salt water helps sore throats) to moisturize the membranes and loosen mucus.

Eliminate sugar as much as possible from your diet. Reduce your salt intake.

Try using a Menthol or Eucalyptus pack applied over the sinuses to relieve pain and swelling. Stop if the packs cause irritation.

Use a vaporizer to ease breathing and clear secretions.

Use steam inhalations to promote drainage and ease pressure. Boil a pot of water and add a few drops of Eucalyptus Oil
or Rosemary Oil. Remove the pot from the heat and lean your face over it at a distance of about 6 inches to inhale the steam. (Be careful not to get so close that irritation or scalding results.) Place a towel over your head to capture the steam and breathe in deeply. Do this several times a day for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Or simply take a hot shower to help relieve the pain and pressure of sinusitis.

You can use a Neti Pot, a small teapot-like device especially designed for nasal irrigation. They are available in many health food stores and online. Fill the pot with sea salt and water (2 teaspoons sea salt to one pint of water) and rinse out your nose with this solution. This should reduce inflammation and congestion.

Herbal Remedies: How To Use A Neti Pot, By Warren Jefferson, Paperback

Herbal Remedies: SinuCleanse Kit With Plastic Neti-Type Pot

Herbal Remedies: Neti Pot Nasal Rinse Cup, Porcelain, Banyan Botanicals, 1 Neti Pot

Herbal Remedies: Neti Wash Plus, Varcho Veda, 2 fl. oz.

Herbal Remedies: Nasaline Salt, 8 oz. Jar

Use warm compresses or ice packs to help relieve pain (experiment to see which works best for you).

If you are taking antibiotics for a sinus infection, be sure to add an acidophilus supplement to your program. Do not take the acidophilus and the antibiotic at the same time.

Herbal Remedies: Acidophilus / Lactobacillus Supplements & Products

If you use decongestants, use them only as directed and for the prescribed amount of time. If possible, avoid using nose drops and sprays. These can become addictive and interfere with normal sinus function. In addition, drops and sprays, as well as inhalers, can shrink blood vessels in the nose, eventually causing the vessels to weaken. Moreover, withdrawal from decongestants can cause a rebound effect, in which the swelling becomes worse after use is discontinued than it was to begin with. They can cause dangerous elevations in blood pressure. Do not use these medication if you have high blood pressure or heart problems.

If sinusitis causes your eyes to become swollen, red, or itchy, or begin tearing, try a product called OcuDyne. This is a complex containing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, key amino acids, active bioflavonoids, and the herbs Bilberry and Ginkgo Biloba to protect the eyes and boost immune function.

Herbal Remedies: OcuDyne II, New & Improved Formula, Allergy Research Group/Nutricology, 200 Caps

Remain as active as possible. Not only is staying in be for ordinary sniffles unnecessary, but it will probably make you feel worse. Moving around helps to loosen built-up mucus and fluids. Unless you have a fever, a brisk walk or any other type of moderate exercise should make you feel better.

A study done between 1999 and 2000 in Florida has shown that taking antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, beta-carotene, selenium, zinc, fructooligosaccharides, and protein can significantly reduce the chance of getting an upper respiratory tract infection. This is particularly important for older adults due to their reduced efficiency of their immune systems. It has also proven to be useful in increasing the effectiveness of flu vaccine. This was originally published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

SOOTHING LEMON & HONEY HOMEMADE DRINK:

Ingredients:
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup honey
Top up with boiling water, stir well. Sip while still warm before bedtime

SALT WATER RELIEF:

Gargle: 2 teaspoons of salt in 1 glass boiling water. Cool and use as a gargle.

Relief For Congested Nose - Salt Water Nasal Rinses:
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon salt Plus 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda in 500 ml boiling water. Dissolve and cool. Pour a little into cupped hand and throw up into nostrils. Breathe in gently. Repeat 3 times. Extend head backwards and allow solution to run down the back of the throat. Repeat once more and sniff and spit out into basin. Do this 3 times daily.

Mix a solution of 1 cup of warm water, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and a pinch of bicarbonate of soda. Use a squeeze spray bottle (available over the counter in drugstores) or an eyedropper to instill the solution in the nostrils, one side at a time. Repeat this procedure 3 or 4 times a day as necessary for relief from stuffiness.

To Relieve Congested Chest - Cough: Steam Inhalation

1-1/2 liters boiling water in bowl
Add 1 teaspoon menthol (Vicks or Friar's Balsam)
Sit with head over bowl and towel over head. Breathe steam in deeply; cough up and spit out chest mucus as it comes up. Continue till there is no more steam. Do this 2 times daily.

Natural Mixture For Dry or Wet Cough:

Ingredients:
Fresh lemon juice
Honey
Medicinal Vegetable Glycerine
Mix together 1:1:1 in small bottle and shake before you use it. Take 1 teaspoon every time you cough.

Do not force when blowing your nose, as this forces mucus back into the sinus cavities. Instead, draw secretions to the back of the throat by sniffing, then expel them.

Do not smoke, and avoid second hand smoke. If you live in a smoggy area, consider getting an air purifier or moving to a less polluted area. Air Supply from Wein Products is a personal air purifier. Worn around the neck, it sets up a defensive shield against microorganisms and microparticles in the air wherever you go.

If you notice swelling around the eyes, consult your health care provider. This is a serious sign.

Have regular dental examinations. Infections in the mouth can easily spread to the sinuses.

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NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS

Unless otherwise specified, the following recommended doses are for adults over the age of 18. For a child between 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended dose. For a child between 6 and 12 years old, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under 6, use 1/4 the recommended dose. See Cold Supplements & Products for more helpful recommendations.

NUTRIENTS
Supplement	Suggested Dosage	Comments
Very Important
Acidophilus Or Kyo-Dophilus	As directed on label. Take on an empty stomach for easier access into the small intestine.	Replaces good bacteria in the colon and helps to maintain healthy intestinal flora. Important if antibiotics are prescribed. Use a non-dairy formula. Acidophilus Supplement Powder, Non Dairy, 3 oz. Bulk, Acidophilus, 3 Billion, NOW Foods, 90 Tabs, Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non Dairy, 100 Caps, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free, Apple Strawberry Flavor, Dynamic Health, 16 fl. oz.,
ACES Plus Zinc (Carlson Labs)	As directed on label.	Contains vitamins A, C, and E plus the minerals selenium and zinc.
Bee Pollen	Start with 1/2 teaspoon daily and increase slowly to 1 tablespoon daily, taken in juice.	Increases immunity and speeds healing. Caution: Bee pollen may cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Do not use if you have known severe allergies to pollen. Discontinue use if at any time a rash, wheezing, discomfort, or other symptoms occur. Bee Pollen Granules, Fresh American Bee Pollen, 16 oz., Zesta Bee Pollen Granules, 100% Natural, 8.25 oz., Bee Pollen Granules, Chinese, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 8 oz., Bee Pollen, Comvita, 500 mg, 100 Caps, Bee Pollen Blend, Nature's Way, 580 mg, 180 Caps, Bee Pollen, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps,
Essential Fatty Acids (Flaxseed Oil)	As directed on label.	Reduces pain and inflammation. Enhances all body functions. Highest Lignan Flax Oil, Organic, Barlean's, 8 fl. oz., Barlean's Flax Oil, Highest Lignan, 1000 mg, 250 Caps, Barlean's Flax Oil, 100% Highest Lignan Content, Organic, Pesticide & Herbicide Free, 16 fl. oz., Ultimate Oil, Essential Fatty Acids Supplement, Nature's Secret, 90 Softgels
Echinacea & Goldenseal Extract	For Adults: 1 dropperful Tincture in mouth, hold it for five minutes, then swallow, every 3 hours for 3 days. Children: 8-10 Drops in mouth, hold it for a few minutes (or as long as possible) and then swallow, every 2 hours for 3 days. Use non-alcoholic Tincture.	Builds immune system and fights microbes. Echinacea Goldenseal Tincture, Alcohol Free, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz., Echinacea Goldenseal Supplement, Nature's Way, 180 Caps
Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Complex	As directed on label.	To improve overall health and assure proper nutrition. All nutrients are needed in balance for healing and for immune response. Multi-Vitamin With Minerals, Hi-Tech, 90 Caps, Liquid Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Complex With Trace Minerals, Orange Mango, 32 fl. oz., Liquid Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, Strawberry-Raspberry, Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz., Multi-Vitamin Mineral Complete, Trace Minerals, 120 Tabs, Maxi Multi-Vitamin With Trace Minerals Liquid, 32 fl. oz., Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Liquid Multi-Vitamin, Trace Minerals, Citrus Flavor, Nature's Way, 30 oz., Super Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral, Pure Vital Earth, 32 fl. oz. (98% Bio-Available for Absorption), Damage Control Master Formula, High Potency, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, 60 Packets (30 Day Supply)
Quercetin	As directed on label.	Protects against allergens and increases immunity. Quercetin, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 VCaps, Quercetin With Bromelain, Hypoallergenic, Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods, 800 mg, 120 VCaps, Activated Quercetin Bioflavonoid Complex, Source Naturals, 50 Tabs
With Bromelain	As directed on label.	Enhances the effectiveness of quercetin. Bromelain 2000 GDU Supplement, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 90 Tabs, Quercetin With Bromelain, Hypoallergenic, Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods, 800 mg, 120 VCaps
Or Anti-Allergy Formula Freeda Vitamins	As directed on label.	Contains quercetin, calcium pantothenate, and calcium ascorbate to provide nutritional support and reduce allergic response.
Raw Thymus Glandular	500 mg twice daily.	Protects immune function and health of the mucous membrane cells. Thymus Organic Glandular, Hypoallergenic, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 75 Caps
SinuCheck Enzymatic Therapy	2 Capsules 4 times daily.	A natural decongestant to help clear blocked nasal passages due to colds and sinusitis.
Vitamin A	10,000 IU. If you are pregnant, do not exceed 10,000 IU daily.	Enhances the immune system, protects against colds, flu & other infections. Helps heal the inflamed mucous membranes and the health of the mucus membranes. Vitamin A, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 10,000 IU, 100 Softgels, Dry Vitamin A & D, Nature's Way, 15,000 IU / 400 IU, 100 Caps Vitamin A, Fish Liver Oil, NOW Foods, 25,000 IU, 250 Softgels
Plus Natural Beta-Carotene And Carotenoid Complex	15,000 IU daily. As directed on label.	An antioxidant and precursor of vitamin A. Antioxidant and free radical scavengers. Beta Carotene (Natural Dunaliella Salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels, Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels
Vitamin B Complex	75-100 mg of each major B Vitamin 3 times daily, with meals. (Amounts of individual vitamins in a complex will vary.)	Helps to maintain healthy nerves and reduce stress. A sublingual form is best. Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs, Liquid Yeast B Complex, Twinlab, 16 Fl oz., Vitamin B-100 Complex, W/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps, Vitamin B=50 Complex, W/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 330 mg, 100 Caps,
Plus Extra Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid)	100 mg 3 times daily, with meals.	Aids in the formation of antibodies. Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 Caps
And Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)	50 mg 3 times daily, with meals.	Aids immune system function. Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine), 100 mg, 100 Caps
Plus Vitamin B-12	1,000 mcg 3 times daily.	Decreases inflammation. Use a lozenge or sublingual form. Instant Energy B-12, 2000 mcg/Packet, NOW Foods, 25 Packets/Box, Vitamin B-12, NOW Foods, 5 oz., Vitamin B-12 Lipospray, NOW Foods, 2 oz., Vitamin B-12 (Cyanocobalamin), 2000 mcg, 100 Sublingual Lozenges
Vitamin C With Bioflavonoids	3,000-10,000 mg daily, in divided doses.	Boosts immune function and aids in preventing infection and decreasing mucus. Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs, Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps, The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 Tabs
Vitamin E	200-1,000 IU daily.	Improves circulation and speeds healing. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form. Vitamin E 1000, NOW Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels, Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels, Vitamin E Oil, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 32,000 IU, 1 oz.
Helpful
Coenzyme Q-10	60 mg daily.	Valuable immune system stimulant. Increases cellular oxygenation. CoQ10, NOW Foods, 400 mg, 60 Softgels, CoQ10, Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, 100 mg, 60 Tabs, Liquid CoQ10, NOW Foods, 4 oz.
Cold-X10 (Olympian Labs)	As directed on label.	A combination of nutrients, herbal extracts, and enzymes that boost the immune system and fight viral and bacterial infection.
Colloidal Silver	As directed on label.	A natural antibiotic. Colloidal Silver Liquid, SilvaSolution, 10 ppm, 16 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver Salve, SilvaSolution, 2 oz., Colloidal Silver, Silva Pro 50 Spray, 2 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver Liquid, Trace Minerals, 8 fl. oz., Ionic Silver Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver Pump Spray, SilvaSolution, 2 fl. oz.
Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)	As directed on label.	Relieves pain and strengthens the immune system. Use only DMSO from a health food store. DMSO Liquid, 99.9% Pure Concentrate, 16 fl. oz., DMSO Gel, 99.9% Pure, 4 oz.
Fenu-Thyme	2 Capsules 3 times daily.	Rids nasal passages of mucus. Fenu-Thyme, Fenugreek Supplement, Nature's Way, 350 mg, 100 Caps
Garlic (Kyolic Or Fresh)	Kyolic: 2 capsules 3 times daily with meals. Fresh: 3-4 cloves with meals 3 times daily.	An immune system stimulant that helps to keep infection in check and a natural antibiotic. Garlic Oil Tincture, Alcohol Free, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz., Garlic Bulb Cloves, Garlic Supplement, Nature's Way, 580 mg, 100 Caps, Odorless Garlic Supplement, NOW Foods, 50 mg, 250 Softgels, Garlic Supplement, Kwai, Triple Concentrated, 180 Tabs, Every Day Garlic Supplement, Kwai, 30 Tabs, Garlic Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Aged Garlic Extract, Cardiovascular Formula 100, Wakunaga Kyolic Supplements, 300 Caps, Kyolic Liquid Aged Garlic Extract, Cardiovascular, Vegetarian, Wakunaga Kyolic, 4 fl. oz., Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract, One-A-Day, Vegetarian, 1000 mg, Wakunaga Kyolic, 30 Caps, Aged Garlic Extract, Cholesterol Formula 104, Wakunaga Kyolic, 200 Caps
Kelp	1,800-3,600 mg daily.	A rich source of important vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Kelp Supplement, Nature's Way, Certified, 650 mg, 100 Caps, Kelp Seaweed, Norwegian, NOW Foods, 100% Natural, 550 mg, 250 Caps, Kelp Seaweed, Norwegian Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Maitake Or Shiitake Or Reishi	As directed on label. As directed on label. As directed on label.	Mushrooms that have immune-boosting and anti-viral properties. Three Mushroom Tincture, Red Reishi, Shiitake & Maitake Mushroom Extract, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Red Reishi Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Shiitake Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Maitake Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz., Reishi Mushroom, Whole, 100% Organic, 4 oz., Shiitake Mushroom, Whole, 100% Organic, 4 oz., Maitake Mushroom, Whole, 100% Organic, 4 oz.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)	As directed on label.	Use for pain relief and to reduce inflammation. MSM Liquid, Pure Lignisul Methylsulfonylmethane, 16 fl. oz., MSM Powder, Pure Lignisul Methylsulfonylmethane, 4 oz.
Olive Leaf Extract	As directed on label.	Antibiotic and antiviral properties. Olive Leaf Herb, Nature's Way, 470 mg, 100 Caps
Proteolytic Enzymes Or Wobenzyme N	As directed on label. Take with meals and between meals.	Destroys free radicals and aids in proper breakdown and absorption of foods. Also good for inflammation. MetabolicZyme (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 900 Tabs,
Pycnogenol Or Grape Seed Extract	As directed on label. As directed on label.	Potent antioxidants that readily pass the blood-brain barrier to protect brain cells from free radical damage. Pycnogenol W/ Vitamin E, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 30 Tabs, Grape Seed (Grapeseed) (Vitus vinifera), 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 16 fl. oz.
Sea Mussel	As directed on label.	Provides needed amino acids and aids in the functioning of the mucous membranes. Reduces inflammation. Sea Mussel Extract, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Zinc	75 mg daily. For Lozenges: 1 15-mg lozenge every 2 to 4 waking hours for 1 week. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements.	Enhances and stimulates immune function to fight the virus. Zinc is absorbed quickly in lozenge form. Keep these on hand and use them at the first sign of a cold. Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges, Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges, Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps

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SINUSITIS SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS

Information, products and supplements for the sinusitis, an inflammation of infection of the mucus membranes that line the inside of the nose and sinuses (hollow areas or cavities in the head.

AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound), NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 500 mg, 60 VCaps NOW Foods AHCC is a rich source of polysaccharides such as beta glucan 1,3 and activated hemicellulose produced by enzymatic modification of organic medicinal mushrooms, including shiitake.

Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin With Mineral, Nature's Way, 18 mg of Iron Added, 90 Tabs Nature's Way ALIVE multi vitamin with mineral is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands. No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than ALIVE, which is just the way it will make you feel.

Alpha SH Homeopathic Sinus Headache & Congestion, Boericke & Tafel, 40 Tabs Alpha SH Homeopathic Sinus Headache & Congestion includes a combination of herbs recommended to alleviate minor sinus headaches, shrink nasal membranes, decongest sinus openings, and encourage sinus drainage.

Amber Glass Bottle With Nasal Spray Cap (Empty), 1 Bottle, 1/2 oz. Quality amber glass bottle with nasal spray cap, useful for treatment in sinus infections, allergies and dry nostrils.

Astragalus Extract, Standardized 0.5% Astragalosides, Nature's Way, 60 VCaps Astragalus Extract is standardized to 0.5% astragalosides, one of the most studied components.

Bee Pollen Blend, Nature's Way, 580 mg, 180 Caps Nature's Way bee Pollen capsules contain a high quality Bee Pollen blend from Europe and China and contains a wide range of nutrients.

Bee Propolis Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Bee Propolis, a resin collected from plants by bees and used in the construction of hives, is a medicinal marvel of the hive. Research shows it has antiseptic, antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal, and even antiviral properties.

Bird Flu Tincture, Alternative Health & Herbs, 2 fl. oz. Elderberry has been used in folk medicine for centuries to treat influenza, colds and sinusitis, and has been reported to have antiviral activity against influenza and herpes simplex.

Black Elderberry Extract, Premium Quality, Kosher, Dynamic Health, 8 fl. oz. Dynamic Health's Black Elderberry extract is of premium quality and kosher.

Black Seed & Honey Herbal Lozenges, Echinacea Berry, 28 Pieces, 4 oz. Enjoy the nutritional benefits of pure Black Seed Oil, Echinacea Berry, Zinc & Honey, these lozenges are sure to please the taste buds of kids & adults alike. Select from Honey-Lemon Ginger or Echinacea-Berry flavors.

Black Seed Herbal Honey, Energizing, 16 fl. oz. A sensational blend of honey and herbs in three different formulations that offer a natural boost of energy, immune support, or relaxation that's great for anyone who wants to enjoy the benefits of Black Seed without taking capsules or oil.

Black Seed Theramune Ultimate With Garlic, 100 Caps Promotes healthy circulation, useful for arthritis and cardiovascular & respiratory support. It also supports digestion and is a natural remedy for ulcers. Garlic is known to lower cholesterol naturally.

Breathe Easy Herbal Aromatherapy Face Pillow, Lavender Colored, Dreamtime DreamTime's Breathe Easy Herbal Face Pillow uses select grains, and natural herbs to urge the sinus passages to open, promoting relaxed and peaceful breathing. Moist heat and the sinus face pillow's own weight produces a delicate acupressure to soothe and alleviate overworked eye and facial muscles.

Breathe Easy Herbal Aromatherapy Face Pillow, Sage Green Colored, Dreamtime DreamTime's Breathe Easy Herbal Face Pillow uses select grains, and natural herbs to urge the sinus passages to open, promoting relaxed and peaceful breathing. Moist heat and the sinus face pillow's own weight produces a delicate acupressure to soothe and alleviate overworked eye and facial muscles.

Brigham Tea, Nature's Way, 415 mg, 100 Caps Brigham Tea was used by early settlers for energy and lung ailments. Brigham Tea was also used anciently to promote circulation.

Bronchitis & Asthma Aide, Homeopathic Asthma Treatment, Boericke & Tafel, 100 Tabs Bronchitis & Asthma Aide, Homeopathic Asthma Treatment, helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to rid bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus and drain bronchial tubes.

Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. WaterOz Ionic Calcium is a pure liquid Calcium supplement. Calcium is one of the most essential of the major biochemical elements needed in human nutrition. It is needed in every organ of the body, including the brain. Calcium is called the "knitter" because it promotes healing or knitting everywhere in the body. It is valuable for tone, power, strength, longevity, vitality, and endurance, healing of wounds, counter-acting acids, and helping regulate metabolism.

Clear Head & Neck Comfort, TCM Formula, 100% Natural, 60 Caps Clear Head & Neck Comfort formula is made of snidium, angelica root, notopterygium rhizome and root, asarum, siler, wild mint, schizonepeta and licorice, herbs for headache.

Cold Aid, 100 Tabs Research during the past ten years into medicinal plants has shown that herbal medicines offer the potential to help the immune system stave of these colds.

Cold & Flu Homeopathic Remedy, Boericke & Tafel, Alpha CF, 40 Tabs Alpha CF, Colds & Flu Homeopathic Remedy is clinically proven as an all natural cold and flu remedy that offers relief for your cold or flu in a great homeopathic remedy! Take it for runny nose, fever, chills, stuffy nose and aches.

Cold & Flu Moisture Bath & Shower Gel, Kiss My Face, 16 oz. You don't need to have a cold to be able to enjoy this popular pick-me-up and all-around soother. Kiss My Face Cold and Flu Bath and Shower Gel is the perfect day-starter or antidote for those under-the-weather blues.

Cold & Flu Tincture, Natural Cold Remedy, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Cold & Flu Tincture, Natural Cold Remedy, is 100% Organic and can be used for colds, flu, infection, and influenza.

Cold & Sinus Blaster Tincture, Cold Supplement, 2 fl. oz. Cold & Sinus Blaster Tincture, Cold Supplement promotes healthy sinus and respiratory systems. It opens the sinuses for easier breathing.

Cold Flu Virus Tincture, Elderberry Formula, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. This Herbal Cold Remedy is a combination of elderberry, echinacea and goldenseal is ideal for the cold and flu season.

Cold Season Tea, Cold Remedy, Certified Organic, Caffeine Free, 16 Tea Bags This Organic Cold Season tea is a soothing organic herbal tea that is specially formulated for use during the cold-weather season.

Cold Season Tea Sampler, Yogi Tea, Caffeine Free, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags These assorted healing herbal teas from Yogi Tea will assist you in the prevention of common ailments during the cold season and bring you balance and harmony in any type of weather.

Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, SilvaSolution, 90 Lozenges Now you can get powerful liquid silver in the most convenient form ever with new SilvaSolution Silver & Zinc Lozenges.

Colostrum Chewables, Natural Vanilla Flavor, 480 mg, 90 Chewables Colostrum known for its powerful healing factors offers optimal health. Colostrum research proves a wide spectrum of immunoglobulins, antibodies, and accessory immune factors.

Colostrum Nature's Gift To The Immune System, Revised & Updated By Beth Ley, Ph.D. Colostrum offers help for: auto-immunity (Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, Allergies, Asthma) immune deficiency, Cancer, Inflammation, etc. plus offers Growth Factors to benefit Athletes and Body Builders (speeds tissue healing).

Comfrey Leaf Powder, 100% Organic, 4 oz. Bulk One of the most well-known healing plants, especially for its ability to heal tissue and bone.

Cough & Bronchial Syrup With Zinc, Homeopathic Boericke & Tafel, 4 fl. oz. Cough & Bronchial Syrup with Zinc temporarily relieves coughs due to minor throat & bronchial irritation occurring with a cold or inhaled irritants.

Cough Syrup, Olbas, 100% Natural, Swiss Made, 4 fl. oz. Olbas natural cough syrup is a pleasant tasting and effective combination of herbal extracts, essential oils and wildflower honey.

DefendAir Immune System Supplement, Trace Minerals, 15 Packets DefendAir Immune System Supplement helps optimize your body's natural defenses by boosting your immune system with a special formula of Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, and Amino Acids.

Echinacea Immune Support Tea, Yogi Tea, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags Echinacea Immune Support tea is a superior blend of several species of Organic Echinacea Root (Echinacea angustifolia, purpurea, pallida) designed to boost your immune system.

Echinacea Root Complex, Nature's Way, 180 Caps Echinacea Root Complex helps promote general well-being during the cold and flu season and support the immune system.

Echinacea Tincture For Children, Orange Flavor, Alcohol-Free, 100% Organic, 1 fl. oz. ChildLife's great tasting Echinacea can provide extra support at the first sign of colds, flu, sore throats, upper respiratory symptoms, sinusitis, and ear infections. Periodic use, especially during the winter months, may increase the overall strength of your child's natural defense system.

Echinacea Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Echinacea Root is also known as Purple Coneflower and considered very valuable by the North American Indians.

Echinacea With Elderberry & Zinc, Nature's Way, 100 Caps Nature's Way Echinacea with Elderberry and Zinc is a synergistic combination of the latest scientific research and traditional herbal medicine to support the immune system.

Effer-C Instant Fizzy Vitamin C Drink Mix Powder, Punch Flavor, 1000 mg, 0.3 oz, 36 Packets This excellent tasting fizzy Vitamin C drink mix is for energy & immune support. Select orange, raspberry or cranberry flavor.

Elderberry Flower Powder (Sambucus Nigra), Alternative Health & Herbs, 4 oz. As a hot infusion, the flowers are sweat-inducing and in combination with yarrow and mint are specific for colds and flu. The flowers are used to treat bronchial and upper respiratory disorders as well as hayfever. A cold infusion of the flowers can be used as a compress for chilblains. (Chilblains are the inflammation of the toes, feet, or fingers, due to the presence of a cold.) The ointment of Elderflower is soothing, cooling and healing, used for irritations of the skin. Considered to have a mild laxative action and may be used for rheumatism and gout.

Elderberry Flower (Sambucus Nigra) Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. As a hot infusion, the flowers are sweat-inducing and in combination with yarrow and mint are specific for colds and flu. The flowers are used to treat bronchial and upper respiratory disorders as well as hayfever. A cold infusion of the flowers can be used as a compress for chilblains. (Chilblains are the inflammation of the toes, feet, or fingers, due to the presence of a cold.) The ointment of Elderflower is soothing, cooling and healing, used for irritations of the skin. Considered to have a mild laxative action and may be used for rheumatism and gout.

Elderberry Herb, Nature's Way, 575 mg, 100 Caps Elderberry herb is popular for health concerns during the winter season.

Elderberry Juice Concentrate, 12.5 fl. oz. Elderberry Juice Concentrate is a Non-Alcoholic source for the health benefits of Elderberries. A medically proven strong anti-viral and immune system enhancer, elderberry is recommended as part of a health maintenance program.

Elderberry Whole Powder, 4 oz. Bulk Elderberry is a purgative, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and diuretic.

Elderberry Whole Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Elderberry kills viruses and is well known as a natural cold and flu treatment. A gargle of Elderberry can be used for tonsillitis and as an herbal sore throat remedy.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil, 100% Pure, 4 fl. oz. Eucalyptus Essential Oil is a potent decongestion with strong antiseptic properties. Eucalyptus Oil is used as an inhalant for asthma, diphtheria, sore throats, sinus and respiratory problems.

First Defense Homeopathic Formula For Children, 4 fl. oz. A complete and effective natural broad spectrum anti-infective formula available for infants and children. Completely safe and non-toxic for infants and children of all ages. A homeopathic Formula.

Flu & Cold Times Tincture, Herbal Cold Supplement, NatureWorks, 1.69 fl. oz. NatureWorks Flu & Cold Times is a homeopathic herbal cold supplement that stimulates your body's natural defense mechanisms.

Garlicin CF, Cold & Flu Formula, Odor Free Garlic, Nature's Way, 404 mg, 90 Enteric Coated Tabs Garlicin CF Odor Free Garlic Immune Support Formula combines all the healthy benefits of high allicin release Garlicin with the added benefits of Echinacea, Ester-C, and OptiZinc.

Germ Defense Cold & Flu, Effervescent Tablets, Improvita, 10 Tabs Germ Defense, Like Airborne, for Cold & Flu is a Dietary Supplement that contains 7 herbal extracts, antioxidants, electrolytes, amino acids, 1,000 mg of Vitamin C and more. The effervescent technology offers 100% immediate absorption. For maximum benefit, it should be taken before entering a crowded environment.

Ginger Honey Crystals, 10 Packets Per Box Ginger Honey Crystals can help to relieve motion sickness, aids digestion and temporary nausea.

GlyMordica Bitter Melon, 100% Natural, 450 mg, 60 Caps Bitter melon is one of the few agents which has the potential to bolster a flagging pancreas. Known for it's ability to help with liver problems, Diabetes and HIV also an excellent natural common cold remedy.

Grapefruit Seed Extract, By Louise Tenney, M.H. Used for everything from the common cold to ringworm, grapefruit seed extract could represent a viable alternative to antibiotics and other medicines.

HAS (Hayfever Allergy Sinus), Hayfever Remedy, Original Formula, Nature's Way, 440 mg, 100 Caps HAS (Hayfever Allergy Sinus) Hayfever Remedy contains many herbs traditionally used to assist the body in dealing with symptoms associated with seasonal allergies.

Head & Throat Soother Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags This caffeine-free tea is an ideal drink for the cold & flu season to remove heat and maintain normal nasal and respiratory functions and sooth the head and throat.

Herbal Chest Rub, Natural Cold Medication, NatureWorks, 1.4 oz. A fresh herbal vaporizing balm, NatureWorks Herbal Chest Rub relieves bronchial congestion and alleviates coughing.

Horehound Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Horehound herb is often used to treat respiratory disorders and has 350 years of history as a soothing expectorant.

Hyland's C-Plus Cold Homeopathic Formula for Children, 125 Tabs For generations, wise mothers have used Hyland's C-Plus Cold Tablets to ease the drippy misery.

Hyland's Sinus Homeopathic Formula, 100 Tabs Hyland's Sinus is a traditional homeopathic formula for the relief of symptoms of runny nose with clear to yellow or milky discharge and nasal and sinus congestion due to cold.

Hyssop Throat Comforts, Natural Herb Comforts, 61 Lozenges Throat Soothers with natural Hyssop can be used to comfort the throat while undergoing ear candling treatments.

Hyssop Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Traditionally, Hyssop was used as a natural cold and flu remedy. Hyssop is also great for lung congestion, fevers, digestion and blood pressure regulation.

Immune-RX, Immune System Supplement, Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, 60 Tabs Immune-RX, Immune System Supplement, was formulated to strengthen your immune system because Immune-Rx offers the most powerful protection against the elements.

Immune Support Group For Infants & Children (Vitamin C, Echinacea, First Defense) The Immune Support Group stimulates natural immune responses and defends the body.

Instant Energy B-12, NOW Foods, 2000 mcg, 75 Packets NOW® Vitamin B-12 Instant Energy is the perfect way to keep alert and energized, regardless of the situation. These convenient, fast-acting packets are perfect when traveling or for convenience.

Irwin Naturals Immune Shield, Immune System Support, 100 Gelcaps Irwin Naturals multi-herb complex addresses two key areas, immune support and bacterial/viral control.

Kombucha 2000, Concentrated Kombucha Capsule, 30 Caps Concentrated Kombucha Capsules are new to the market, but Kombucha 2000 is one of the very first successful kombucha tea producers in the United States.

Kombucha Miracle Fungus, Kombucha Tea Benefits, By Harald Tietze, Paperback One time best seller, Kombucha Miracle Fungus is all about synergy and Kombucha Tea Benefits it is an easy read for those interested in the synergy Kombucha offers or Kombucha benefit 's.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non-Dairy, 100 Caps Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement taken as a dietary supplement may help to detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora.

L-Glutathione, 250 mg, 60 Caps L-Glutathione is a tripeptide amino acid produced in the liver primarily from cysteine. L-Glutathione acts as a cellular antioxidant by inhibiting free radical proliferation.

Liquid Flavored Sweetleaf Stevia, 4 Bottles, 6 ml, 60 Servings Each Flavored Sweetleaf Stevia has Four exciting All Natural, Zero Cal, Zero Carb, Zero Glycemic index - Flavored Stevia bottles at an exciting value of only one penny per drop.

Meta C Vitamin C Supplement, 1000 mg, 100 Tabs Meta C Vitamin C Supplement is a unique form of vitamin C that is absorbed faster than regular vitamin C and maintains higher serum levels for longer period of time with no intestinal discomfort.

Multiple Effects Oil, TCM Formula Shixiang Baixiangyou, Cold, Headache & Pain Formula, 100% Natural, 0.34 fl. oz. Multiple Effects Oil, TCM Cold, Headache and Pain Formula opens stuffy noses, removes headache pain, joint pain, and drowsiness.

Multi-Vitamin Without Iron, Nature's Way, 100 Caps The vitamins and minerals in this Multi Vitamin without Iron play many important roles in the body: antioxidants to protect fats, cells and DNA, coenzyme precursors for energy production and metabolism, and cofactors for hormones and enzymes which regulate body processes.

Nasaline Salt, 8 oz. Jar This pure non-ionized salt is for use with Nasaline or possibly a Neti Pot.

Nature's Antiseptics Tea Tree Oil & Grapefruit Seed Extract, CJ Puotinen, Paperback Nature's Warfare, this book covers tea tree oil and grapefruit see extract use in safely destroying viruses, bacteria, molds, yeasts and parasites that want to live in us and on us.

Natural Cough & Bronchial Syrup, Children's Homeopathic, Boericke & Tafel, Cherry Flavor, 4 fl. oz. Temporarily relieves coughs due to minor throat & bronchial irritation occurring with a cold or inhaled irritants. Helps loosen phlegm (mucus) & thin bronchial secretions to rid the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus & drain bronchial tubes.

Natural Cough & Bronchial Syrup, Daytime, Boericke & Tafel, 4 fl. oz. Temporarily relieves coughs due to minor throat & bronchial irritation occurring with a cold or inhaled irritants.

Natural Cough & Bronchial Syrup, Nighttime, Boericke & Tafel, 4 fl. oz. Don't let a cough keep you awake! B & T Nighttime Cough & Bronchial Syrup combines an all-natural, non-narcotic sleep aid with America's favorite homeopathic cough medicine.

Neti Pot Nasal Rinse Cup, Porcelain, Banyan Botanicals, 1 Neti Pot This Neti Pot is a hygienic, non-porous, porcelain cup used for nasal and sinus rinse. Considered useful for individuals prone to nasal congestion.

Neti Wash Plus, Varcho Veda, 2 fl. oz. For use with the Neti-pot, this wash's main ingredient is zinc which helps in cleaning up the sinuses and supporting the immune system.

Nutribiotic Nasal Spray, With Grapefruit Seed Extract, 1 fl. oz. Nasal Spray is useful to aiding many conditions. During allergy season it helps to re-moisturize the nasal passages and clean them of dust, dirt, dander and other allergens. The nasal spray is also useful during a bout of sinusitis, or inflammation and infection of the sinus passages.

Odorless Garlic Supplement, NOW Foods, 50 mg, 250 SoftGels Odorless Garlic supplement is extracted from Allum sativum and is a specially made Japanese product. Our Odorless Garlic yields high amounts of Scordiin, a unique sulfur compound which may be responsible for many of garlic's renowned benefits.

Pain Formula Tincture, 2 fl. oz. Use the Pain Formula to alleviate pain naturally.

Pastilles, Olbas, 100% Natural, Swiss Made, 27 Herbal Cough Drops Olbas Herbal Cough Drops, pastilles, temporarily controls cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritations associated with the common cold or inhaled irritants.

Pelargonium, Coughs & Chest Ailments, 3 fl. oz. Pelargonium is rich in phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and amino acids that enhance the body's functioning and protects it against diseases.

Peppermint Leaf (Mentha X Piperita) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk Peppermint leaf calms the muscles of the stomach and improves the flow of bile, which the body uses to digest fats. As a result, food passes through the stomach more quickly.

ProstaClean, Prostate Herbs Balanceuticals, TCM Prostate Formula, 100% Natural, 60 Caps Chinese medicine uses this well-known formula for its diuretic and immune supporting properties to clear the prostate and eliminate heat and toxins, and to rejuvenate.

Protein From Rice Powder, Dairy Free, Vegetarian / Vegan, Hypoallergenic, Chocolate, 1 lb 6.9 oz. A great tasting vegetable protein made from non-genetically modified California grown brown rice. Free of the common food allergens from soy, milk, egg, wheat and yeast.

Protein From Rice Powder, Dairy Free, Vegetarian / Vegan, Hypoallergenic, Mixed Berry, 1 lb 5 oz. A great tasting vegetable protein made from non-genetically modified California grown brown rice. Free of the common food allergens from soy, milk, egg, wheat and yeast.

Protein From Rice, Powder, Dairy Free, Vegetarian / Vegan, Hypoallergenic, Plain, 1 lb 5 oz. A great tasting vegetable protein made from non-genetically modified California grown brown rice. Free of the common food allergens from soy, milk, egg, wheat and yeast.

Protein From Rice, Powder, Dairy Free, Vegetarian / Vegan, Hypoallergenic, Vanilla, 1 lb 5 oz. A great tasting vegetable protein made from non-genetically modified California grown brown rice. Free of the common food allergens from soy, milk, egg, wheat and yeast.

Quercetin With Bromelain, Hypoallergenic Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods, 800 mg, 120 VCaps This non-citrus Quercetin is non-allergenic, with Bromelain to enhance the absorption of Quercetin.

Rosemary Leaf (Rosmarinus Officinalis) Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Rosemary has been traditionally used for tension headaches, stimulating circulation, strengthening the nervous system. Good tonic for the heart and for high blood pressure.

Sambucol Black Elderberry Extract, Nature's Way, 7.8 fl. oz. Sambucol is used by millions of people with positive results being reported worldwide, Sambucol is especially popular for promoting good health against the Flu and Colds during the winter season.

Sambucol Elderberry & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 30 Lozenges Sambucol Lozenges contain the original formulation of the award winning black elderberry extract. Sambucol Black Elderberry extract has been used by millions of people with positive results being reported worldwide.

Sambucol For Kids, Elderberry Formula, 4 fl. oz. Sambucol for Kids supports the immune system, and is especially popular during the winter season. Sambucol black elderberry extract has been used by million of people with positive results being reported worldwide.

Sambucol Immune System Formula, 30 Lozenges Sambucol Immune System Formula Lozenges support your natural defenses, and are especially popular during the winter season. Sambucol black elderberry extract has been used by millions of people with positive results being reported worldwide.

Sambucol Immune System Formula With Elderberry & Echinacea, 7.8 fl. oz. Sambucol Immune System Elderberry Formula supports your natural defenses against the Flu, and Colds, and is especially popular during the winter season.

Selenium, 100% Natural, 200 mcg, 100 Caps Selenium is an essential component of glutathione, the body's most potent natural antioxidant system. It is a popular choice in many antioxidant regimens.

Silver Biotics Liquid, Silver Supplement, 8 fl. oz. Silver Biotics was tested by researchers and was found to kill every strain of bacteria that it was tested against and that these bacteria, many of which have become resistant to antibiotics, cause many human ailments.

Sinol Nasal Spray Allergy & Sinus Relief, Fast Decongestant, 1 oz. Sinol's all Natural Allergy and Sinus Relief and Fast Decongestant Nasal Spray relieves allergies, and even headaches fast.

SinuCleanse Kit With Plastic Neti Type Pot SinuCleanse Kit w/ Plastic Neti Type Pot is a complete sinus irrigation system for natural relief of nasal congestion.

Sinus Clikpak Tube, Nelson's Homeopathic, 84 Pellets All natural, safe and highly effective homeopathic medicine for relief of nasal congestion, sinus pressure and sinus headache associated with sinusitis or colds.

Sinus Pillow, Velvet, Color May Vary, Dreamtime Place this Sinus Pillow over your Eyes and Sinuses and breathe deeply. The refreshing aromatic fill of fresh Peppermint, Spearmint and Eucalyptus encourage the opening of the sinus passages and unencumbered breathing. Soothing warm or cool therapy helps ease away the unwelcome aches and pains of headaches and sinus congestion.

Sinus & Lung Congestion Formula Tincture, 2 fl. oz. The Sinus & Lung Congestion Formula was created to help clear the lungs and sinuses of congested matter.

Sinus & Lung Congestion Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 8 fl. oz. The Sinus & Lung Congestion Formula was created to help clear the lungs and sinuses of congested matter.

Sitopladi Churna, 450 mg, 120 VCaps Sitopladi Churna was traditionally used in respiratory affections, mild fever, acidity, and coughs.

Sitopaladi Powder, Certified Organic, Banyan Botanicals, 1/2 lb. Certified Organic Sitopaladi Powder contains cane sugar, banslochan, pippali, cardamom, cinnamon and corn starch. Traditionally used for colds, congestion and bronchial conditions.

Sympacho Tea, 20 Tea Bags Sympacho tea is a delicious, all-natural way to reduce inflammation and pain and boost immunity.

SystemWell Ultimate Multisystem Immunity Supplement, 180 Tabs SystemWell Ultimate Multisystem Immunity Supplement is the multi-system defense formula for seven essential aspects of healthy immunity.

Talisadi Churna, 450 mg, 120 VCaps Talisadi Churna is very effective in fighting common colds, cough, asthma, and helps to liquefy phlegm.

Talisadi Powder, Certified Organic, Banyan Botanicals, 1/2 lb. Certified Organic Talisadi Powder Adding talisa, black pepper and ginger to Sitopaladi's ingredients, this compound is considered useful for coughs, sore throat and bronchial conditions.

Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia), 100% Pure Oil, 2 fl. oz. Tea Tree Oil can be used for general first aid uses such as cuts, burns, abrasions, insect bites, bee stings, rashes, impetigo, boils, sinus problems, sore throat, thrush, fingernail and toenail infections.

Tea Tree Therapy, Eucalyptus Chest Rub, 2 oz. Tea Tree eucalyptus chest rub it is a 100% natural treatment to ease nasal congestion, enhance breathing and provide relief.

Throat Spray GSE, 4 fl. oz. This natural formulation is designed to promote healthy conditions in the mouth and throat. Nutribiotic Throat Spray provides protection from sore throat due to germs.

Umcka Cold & Flu Syrup, Berry Flavor, Nature's Way, 4 oz. Umcka Cold & Flu Berry Syrup combines two clinically tested natural ingredients into one complete, multi-action cold and flu formula.

Umcka Cold Care Menthol Flavor Syrup, Nature's Way, 4 fl. oz. Umcka Cold Care shortens the duration and reduces the severity of symptoms associated with the common cold and throat, sinus, and bronchial irritations.

Umcka Cold Care Menthol Syrup, Nature's Way, 8 fl. oz. Clinically tested, UMCKA Cold Care shortens the duration and reduces the severity of throat, sinus and bronchial irritations.

Umcka Cold & Flu Syrup, Orange Flavor, Nature's Way, 4 oz. Umcka Cold & Flu Orange Syrup combines two clinically tested natural ingredients into one complete, multi-action cold and flu formula.

Umcka Cold & Flu, Berry Flavor, Nature's Way, 20 Chewable Tabs Umcka Cold & Flu Berry Chewable Tablets combine two clinically tested natural ingredients into one complete, multi-action cold and flu formula.

Umcka Cold & Flu, Orange Flavor, Nature's Way, 20 Chewable Tabs Umcka Cold & Flu Orange Chewable Tablets combine two clinically tested natural medicines into one complete, multi-action cold and flu formula.

Umcka Cold Care Alcohol Free Drops, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz. Clinically tested UMCKA Cold Care with Pelargonium sidoides shortens the duration and reduces the severity of throat, sinus and bronchial irritations.

Umcka Cold Care Chewable Tablets, Cherry Flavor, Nature's Way, 20 Tabs Umcka Cold Care shortens the duration and reduces the severity of throat, sinus and bronchial irritations. Umcka Cold Care provides effective relief of upper respiratory tract irritations. Unlike other remedies that simply mask symptoms, Umcka Cold Care helps you recover faster.

Umcka Cold Care Chewable Tablets, Menthol Flavor, Nature's Way, 20 Tabs Umcka Cold Care shortens the duration and reduces the severity of throat, sinus and bronchial irritations. Umcka Cold Care provides effective relief of upper respiratory tract irritations. Unlike other remedies that simply mask symptoms, Umcka Cold Care helps you recover faster.

Umcka Cold Care, Original Formula Drops, Nature's Way, 1 fl. oz. Shortens duration and reduces severity of symptoms associated with the common cold and throat, sinus, bronchial irritations. Shortens duration & reduces severity of upper respiratory symptoms.

Umcka Cold Care, 99% Alcohol Free, Homeopathic Cherry Flavor Syrup, Nature's Way, 4 fl. oz. Shortens duration and reduces severity of symptoms associated with the common cold and throat/sinus/bronchial irritations. Umcka ColdCare is a natural cold flu remedy that will helps you recover faster.

Umcka Cold Care, 99% Alcohol Free, Sugar Free, Grape Flavor Syrup, Nature's Way, 4 fl. oz. Clinically tested UMCKA shortens the duration and reduces the severity of throat, sinus and bronchial irritations.

Umcka Cold Care Soothing Hot Drink, Cherry Menthol, Nature's Way, 10 Packets Umcka Cold Care Soothing Hot Drink shortens the duration and severity of nasty colds! Flavored with natural cherry and menthol for a soothing effect, and sweetened with Xylitol in a delicious, immune-boosting homeopathic formula from Nature's Way.

Umcka Cold Care Soothing Hot Drink, Lemon, Nature's Way, 10 Packets Try Umcka Cold Care hot drink at the first sign of cold or flu. Umcka is derived from the plant Pelargonium sidoides, a flowering herb native to Africa. For centuries, the roots of this herb have been used to combat respiratory infections; bronchitis, colds, and sore throats.

Usnea Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Usnea is an antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, antiviral, and diuretic.

Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 SoftGels Nature's Way vitamin A is 100% natural from fish liver oil. It contains no artificial ingredients or preservatives.

Vitamin B-12 Liquid Supplement, 50 mcg, & vitamin B-9 (Folic Acid), 400 mcg, 1 fl. oz. This liquid B-12 supplement with its combination of B vitamins can be a very effective revitalizer in supporting the nervous system, prenatal child health, vegetarians, and heart health.

Vitamin B-12 Complex Liquid, NOW Foods, 2 fl. oz. Vitamin B-12 Helps to maintain a healthy nervous system, and helps in the prevention of pernicious anemia. Folic Acid should be taken by all females of child bearing age to help prevent neuro-tube birth defects. Folic acid is also linked to heart health.

Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.

Vitamin C Liquid With Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz. Liquid Vitamin C with Natural Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids is an easy to swallow dietary supplement that exceeds the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.

Vitamin E, Natural D-Alpha-Tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 SoftGels Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.

Wellness Shots, California Natural, 4 oz. Created in a Malibu Juice Bar, Wellness Shots are a powerful tonic formulated from organic ginger, oregano oil; grapefruit seed extract, colloidal silver, and peppermint. It creates instant relief for colds, flu's, and allergy like symptoms.

Wellness Shots Spray, California Natural, 1 oz. Created in a Malibu Juice Bar, Wellness Shots are a powerful tonic formulated from organic ginger, oregano oil; grapefruit seed extract, colloidal silver, and peppermint. It creates instant relief for colds, flu's, and allergy like symptoms.

Zinc Lozenges With Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges Nature's Way Zinc lozenge boosts cold season defense with zinc, widely recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold season, and echinacea pupurea, clinically shown to support the immune system, and Vitamin C, a vitally important vitamin for general health maintenance.

Herbal Remedies: Sinusitis Information

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Herbal Remedies: Cold / Common Cold / Head Cold / Chest Cold Information

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NOTIFY YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...

Sinus infection, when treated in an appropriate manner early in the course of the illness, can usually be treated effectively. It is important to seek the advice and evaluation of your health care provider if you suspect that you have sinus infection. If you are prone to recurrent bouts of sinus infection it may be important for you to consider allergy testing to see if this is the underlying cause of your recurring problem.

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