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Sinusitis - Naturopathic approach

According to Dr. Lanalle Chapman-Dunn, Naturopathic Physician, it is necessary to first determine whether the sinus problem is acute or reoccurring (chronic). "Twenty-five per cent of acute maxillary (or upper jaw) sinusitis is caused by dental infections so this needs to be first ruled out. Generally acute sinusitis responds well to herbs and nutritional supplements."

"Dairy products should be avoided as should fats, caffeine, refined or processed foods, sugar and catarrh forming foods such as tofu, tomatoes, oranges, grains, rice, ice cream, shellfish and meat. Instead increase food containing vitamin A and C and drink plenty of fluids including tea made with mint, basil and ginger; or magnolia flowers, basil, ginger and green onion. While boiling the tea inhale the steam through the nose. A salt water nasal lavage is also helpful."

Since up to 70 per cent of chronic sinusitis is due to food intolerance or allergies, it is fundamental to treat the cause of chronic sinusitis in addition to symptoms or the problem will continue to reoccur. "For chronic sinusitis the remedies are the same as with acute, with the addition of a hypoallergenic or rotation diet to identify possible allergies. Dr. Lanalle also suggests an increase in manganese foods (such as buckwheat, nuts, beans, peas and blueberries)."

"Eat plenty of pungent foods such as garlic, onions, citrus, horseradish, ginger, green onions, magnolia flower, bananas, black mushrooms, chrysanthemum flower and apricot kernels. Supplements helpful in increasing the immune function for both acute and chronic sinusitis include vitamin A, B-5, B-6, C, zinc and bioflavonoids. Botanicals I may prescribe include Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal) and Echinacea."

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dr. Lanalle also utilises acupuncture to treat sinus conditions. "In Chinese medicine there are five main causes of sinusitis: wind-heat in the lung channel, mainly caused by weather changes, the second reason is the stagnation in the gallbladder channel, which can be attributed to emotions."

"Greasy, spicy foods can cause damp heat in the spleen or stomach and the last may be a spleen Qi deficiency caused by food intolerances or allergies, fatigue or over-thinking. Acupuncture works for sinusitis by opening the nasal passages and allowing the sinus passages to drain. It also boosts immunity and helps clear infection."

In addition, Chapman-Dunn also recommends acupressure. "Massaging certain acupuncture points on the nose, face and hands for up to five minutes three times a day can help to open the nasal passages and reduce the pressure and thus the pain in the sinuses."