Globally we  suffer from sinus infections or sinusitis every year. Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses that leads to an infection and can result in mucus build-up and pain. Normally, sinuses are filled with air, but when sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses and fungi) can grow and cause an infection. There are two types of sinusitis: acute and chronic. While the symptoms are relatively similar, the main difference is that acute is temporary, as is seen with a cold. With chronic, two of the following signs or symptoms must be present for a diagnosis:

• Drainage of a thick, yellow or greenish discharge from the nose or down the back of the throat

• Nasal obstruction or congestion causing difficulty breathing through your nose

• Pain, tenderness and swelling around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead

• Reduced sense of smell and taste

Symptoms

Common symptoms associated with acute sinusitis include:

• Pain or pressure around the sinuses, or the cheeks and eye area of the face

• Inability to breathe through the nose due to clogged nasal passages

• Greenish or yellowish mucous discharge

• Toothache or pain in the jaw

• Fatigue or irritability

• Cough

• Bad breath (halitosis)

• Sore throat

What can trigger it and how do we get it?

Sinusitis causes include a respiratory infection, allergies and a weakened immune system.

What to Eat More Of –

Water: Adequate hydration is the key to flushing out the virus from your system. Try to drink at least 8 ounces every two hours. Also consider foods that are high in water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, jicama, beets, watermelon, carrots or celery.

Vegetable broth with vegetables: This traditional remedy helps soothe the nasal cavities and respiratory system, along with providing important minerals.

Horseradish: Anyone who has accidentally eaten too much horseradish has experienced its potent ability to clear nasal passages. Mix some horseradish with lemon to make it even more potent.

Ginger: Make a ginger tea and add raw honey to aid in recovery.

Garlic and onions: Both of these vegetables help to boost immune function and contain allicin, which destroys bad bacteria.

What to Eat Less Of / Cut Out

Sugar: Decreases white blood cells that help fight off infection.

Fruit Juices: Although orange juice contains some vitamin C, which can boost immune function, it is not as high in vitamin C as whole fruits or vegetables. If you want to drink juice, dilute it to reduce sugar content.

Dairy products: Milk and other dairy products are mucus-producing so it is best to avoid them.

Refined flour and grains: All refined grains, such as wheat and white bread and flour products, can cause more mucus production.

Salt: Without adequate water intake, salt can be dehydrating and slow the healing of the inflammation of the sinuses.

What You Can Take and Home Remedies

Oil of oregano (500 mg, four times daily for a maximum of 10 days). Has a powerful antiviral and antibacterial effect.

Grapefruit seed extract (spray, four times daily). Has antiviral properties.

Vitamin C (1,000 mg, three times daily) Boosts immune function.

Garlic (500 mg, two times daily). Helps fight infection and drain sinuses.

Echinacea (1,000 mg, two to three times daily). This herb can help your body fight off viruses and bacteria, but it is best to take it at the first sign of illness.

Recommended Essential Oils

Eucalyptus and Peppermint

How To use: These oils can naturally open up the sinuses, clear mucus and eliminate infections. You can diffuse the oils in the air or make a homemade vapor rub.

Alternatives

Nasal irrigation: Using a Neti pot, a container designed to rinse debris or mucus from your nasal cavity, can also greatly improve sinus issues and clear the nasal passageways. Use one to two times a days.