Natural Remedies for Sinus Infection Relief: What Works and What Doesn’t (2024)

FAQs

What is the strongest natural antibiotic for sinus infection? ›

Take oil of oregano: This essential oil has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight off sinus infections. Place a few drops under your tongue twice daily or add oregano oil to a bowl of recently boiled water to enhance your steam inhalation treatment.

Several home remedies and treatments that you can try are nasal irrigation, steam therapy, drinking lots of water, warm compresses, rest, sleeping elevated, and humidifiers.

“Sinusitis often goes away by itself,” Dr. Sindwani says, “but if it hangs on, you want to see your doctor.” Pay attention to the length of your sinus infection and whether it seems to be getting worse. If you can't shake it within seven to 10 days, make an appointment with a healthcare provider.

Best Antibiotics for Sinusitis

Amoxicillin (Amoxil) or amoxicillin clavulanate (Augmentin) are typically the first recommendations for people not allergic to penicillin. Amoxicillin is a penicillin-like antibiotic used to treat all kinds of infections, including chest, ear, and sinus infections.

About 70% of sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics.

In addition to medication, if needed, certain foods and drinks can help relieve symptoms. Hot liquids like tea and broth can help open the nasal passages, allowing you to breathe easier. They also contain nutrients linked to better immunity. Try to avoid foods that cause inflammation when you have a sinus infection.

Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial and antifungal properties and is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, calcium, and magnesium which aids in treating sinus infection. It works by loosening up the mucous and clearing nasal passages.

A chronic sinus infection, sometimes called chronic sinusitis, some can last for 12 weeks or longer. They can be caused by fungal infections or untreated bacterial infections, the constant infection and inflammation of chronic sinusitis won't go away on its own.

What can make sinusitis worse? ›

Amphotericin B may be the first drug of choice in the treatment of invasive fungal sinusitis because of its broad coverage of Mucor species and Aspergillus. The use of some azole antifungals could also be beneficial, but concurrent management by an infectious disease specialist is warranted.

What happens at the end of a sinus infection? Toward the end of a sinus infection, symptoms will improve and start going away. People may notice symptoms easing, such as less congestion, less postnatal drip, or easing pressure in the face.

Vitamin C supports your immune system and can help you fight off your sinus infection faster. Vitamin C can also help reduce inflammation, which can ease congestion. Oranges are naturally rich in vitamin C, or you can take vitamin C supplements which come in a variety of forms from powders to capsules.

Hot liquids like tea and broth can help open the nasal passages, allowing you to breathe easier. They also contain nutrients linked to better immunity. Try to avoid foods that cause inflammation when you have a sinus infection. Examples include sugar-sweetened beverages, processed meat, and alcohol.