Sinusitis is one of the commonest health concerns worldwide. It causes the sinuses – the air-filled cavities in the bones of the face – to become congested, and the mucus linings in the nasal passages to become inflamed.

Symptoms of sinus infection can vary greatly; headaches and migraines are common, as are tight facial muscles, sore eyes and nasal dryness. Many people experience thick discharges which can be yellow, green or watery. Others suffer nosebleeds, nose infection or swelling of the face and eyes, and dark circles may form under the eyes. Left untreated the problem can worsen to affect the eyes, ears, throat or lungs. Orthodox medicine has never been able to provide a cure for sinusitis. The use of antibiotics has been largely put aside in favour of steroidal ‘puffers’ but these only serve at best to control the symptoms to some extent. Often the sufferer is resigned to continued dependency on these drugs, having been told that they will just have to live with the problem. So how can Ayurveda do any better?

Sinus infection treatment with Ayurveda provides an excellent example of a truly holistic approach, but it is essential to address all the contributory factors.

First, nasal irrigation is a technique that many people have found to help greatly, but if used on its own it is unlikely to produce a lasting sinus cure. The Neti pot, when used correctly with the right type of salt, can be very beneficial, but it is important that all water is removed from the nasal passages after use and they then need to be lubricated with a specially prepared herbal oil to seal the membrane. Care also needs to be taken to treat any other affected organs, such as the eyes, ears or lungs with appropriate medicines.

However, the nasal membranes are not themselves the cause of the problem. The digestive system is a major target for treatment. Ayurveda recognises that most sinus problems have their root in this system. When digestion is incomplete there is a resulting accumulation of waste (ama) which leads to an increase in unhealthy mucus, often affecting the sinuses. Low pitta leads to increased kapha, so it is essential to embark on a kapha reducing diet.

Yogic postures and breathing exercises are also employed as these help to improve the blood circulation in the nasal passages and the brain; a 20 minute program greatly assists in increasing energy, eventually leading to long-standing sinus relief.

Finally, the immune system requires boosting to avoid any over-reaction to allergens such as pollen or dust-mites.

A holistic approach of this kind can be expected to lead to a gradual but sure release from the grips of this debilitating condition of sinus pain.