10 Best Home Remedies For Sinus Infection

a sick woman about to take one of the home remedies for sinus infection

Starting to feel raw in the back of your throat? Getting some killer headaches? Blowing your nose more often? You know it’s coming, another sinus infection. If you’ve used every product on the pharmacy shelves and still found no relief, it might be time to check out some home remedies for sinus infections. You might be surprised at how effective these remedies can be for fighting sinus infection symptoms.

Best Home Remedies for Sinus Infection Comparison Table 

[amazon box=”B00O8ZJ0PO,B0000TN7MY,B071D58ZY5,B01787L6QY,B0725FPBWT,B003ZLFI08,B004L48PNA,B07GSJBLJV,B07GVPS9H9,B014BBM1KU,B06XP3B13K” template=”table”]

Sinus Infection FAQ

​1. What Are Sinus Infections?

​The sinuses are a group of cavities in the space behind the nose, forehead, and mouth. These cavities create the mucus that’s needed to keep the nose healthy. The nose filters dust, pollen, and other irritants out of the air so that they don’t enter the lungs. When this filtering system becomes weak, the throat and nasal cavities are affected as well.Sinus infections, also called sinusitis, are brought on when the sinuses are irritated and become inflamed. The inflammation creates pressure that brings about sinus pain. An excess of mucus causes a post-nasal drip, which irritates the throat. Before you know it, your head is throbbing and stuffy.

​2. How Do You Get a Sinus Infection?

​The list of sinus infection causes is long. They are most often caused by viruses though some are caused by bacterial infections. If you suffer from allergies, exposure to pollen, smoke, or another irritant, they can bring on sinusitis. Poor air quality—such as exposure to traffic in cities or other pollution — is another frequent cause of sinus infections. People with asthma and weak immune systems are more likely to get sinus infections than other people.

​3. When Should You Use Home Remedies for Sinus Infections?

a woman experiencing symptoms of sinus infection

Image Source: Pixabay.com

​There are many home remedies for sinus infections. These remedies can treat the immediate symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, and they can help reduce nasal inflammation in the future.If you have a sinus infection, the first thing you should do is visit your doctor. The infection could be related to a serious condition such as nasal polyps.When you visit your doctor, ask her or him about using home remedies for sinus infections. Many doctors today understand the benefits of home remedies. If you’d like to start taking vitamin supplements or using essential oils, get your doctor’s approval first because some supplements can interact with some medicines.We’ve reviewed some products designed to treat and prevent sinus infections. These products make it easy for you to use home remedies for sinus infections.

​How We Reviewed

sliced lemon and mug with herbal tea, one of the home remedies for sinus infection

Image Source: Unsplash.com

The following products were reviewed based on the following parameters: Type of Natural Remedy, Ease of Use, Features, Pros & Cons, and Price, Overall Price Range of This Product (and Similar Products)

Price

​Our reviews covered a wide price range, with products priced from below $12 to above $100. Because we looked at a range of natural remedies, some of the more complex products (such as an air purifier) were priced higher than other products (such as an herbal tea). This range in prices should provide natural remedies for any budget.

​What We Reviewed

  • ​Inhale steam    
  • ​Air purifier
  • ​Irrigate your sinuses
  • ​Cleansing diet
  • ​Garlic and onions
  • ​Herbal teas
  • ​Vitamin C
  • ​Zinc
  • ​Essential oils
  • ​Vitamin D

[amazon link=”B00O8ZJ0PO” title=”Personal Steam Inhaler” /]

[amazon box=”B00O8ZJ0PO”]

Description

​Steam is one of the best home remedies for sinus infections. Dry air irritates the sinuses. The steam inhaler that we’ve reviewed has a soft hood to cradle the face. It comes with inhalant pads that add a congestion-relieving scent to the steam.

PROS

  • Directs steam right in the nasal passages
  • ​Provides a powerful amount of steam

​CONS

  • ​A little uncomfortable
  • ​Must use their brand of scented pads
  • ​Plastic is somewhat flimsy

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

Highly effective

Ease of Use

Contains boiling water; users must be careful that the inhaler doesn’t tip over.

​When to Use

​Use for painful sinus pressure.

[amazon link=”B071D58ZY5″ title=”LEVOIT Air” /]

[amazon box=”B071D58ZY5″]

Description

​This air purifier works in three steps: pre-filter, HEPA filter, and then a carbon filter. It will filter air in spaces up to 90 square feet. It is designed to blend into most décor and contains a nightlight to soothe children.

PROS

  • Stylish design
  • ​Nightlight is a nice touch

​CONS

  • ​A little noisy
  • ​Only purifies a small space

Where to Buy

Amazon

Effectiveness

​Effects won’t be immediate. Instead, the benefits of an air filter will come about over time.

Ease of Use

​Some of the reviewers found the controls on the air filter difficult to use.

​When to Use

​Use on a daily basis to keep the air free of sinus infection causing irritants.

[amazon link=”B01787L6QY” title=”Naväge Nasal” /]

[amazon box=”B01787L6QY”]

Description

​Sinus irrigation is a popular home remedy for sinus infections. It can be quite powerful and provide quick relief. This “nose cleaner” functions as a vacuum to remove mucus. It is very popular with some reviewers.

PROS

  • ​Some reviewers called it “life-changing”
  • ​Very effective

​CONS

  • ​Sinus irrigation is an intense experience; some reviewers disliked it
  • Irrigator requires special salt pods, an added expense

Where to Buy

Amazon

Effectiveness

​Some reviewers claimed it was the best sinus infection treatment they’d ever experienced.

Ease of Use

​This device was a little difficult to assemble. 

​When to Use

​Useful for treating mucus build up.

[amazon link=”B0725FPBWT” title=”Kitchen Basics” /]

[amazon box=”B0725FPBWT”]

Description

​Warm soup and beverages are ideal treatments for sinus infections. This product is a high protein bone broth. Along with its 10 grams of protein per serving, it contains turmeric, lemongrass, and ginger.

PROS

  • ​Many reviewers found it very tasty
  • ​Can be used in cooking as well as a hot beverage

​CONS

  • ​Strong smell
  • High sodium (380 mg)

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

Turmeric and ginger temporarily relieved some symptoms. It is not effective as a long-lasting remedy.

Ease of Use

​Very easy to use: just pop it in the microwave!

​When to Use

​Use when you’re craving hot soup or tea. This will satisfy the need for a warm beverage while giving you a strong dose of protein.

[amazon link=”B003ZLFI08″ title=”Kyolic Aged” /]

[amazon box=”B003ZLFI08″]

Description

​Garlic and onions are well known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-viral qualities. They’re easily accessible in your local grocery store. Some people eat the garlic cloves and onions whole. Garlic and onion can also be chopped up and added to a neti pot or consumed in pill form.

PROS

  • ​Can be taken in several ways, including pills
  • Cheap and widely available

​CONS

  • ​Very strong odor
  • Powerful taste

Where to Buy

​Check out your local grocery store or pharmacy.

Effectiveness

​This has mixed reviews. Eating onions and garlic for their health benefits is an old-fashioned remedy that some people swear by.

Ease of Use

​Very easy to use, though many people will find the strong smell and taste of whole garlic cloves and onions puts them off.

​When to Use

​The pill form is easy to take. However, if you’re consuming whole garlic cloves and onions, try to avoid other people for a little while or have some strong mouthwash on hand.

[amazon link=”B004L48PNA” title=”Smith Teamaker” /]

[amazon box=”B004L48PNA”]

​Ingredients

​This tea contains pure peppermint leaves.

Description

​Many people find herbal tea an essential beverage and one of the best home remedies for sinus infections. Many herbal teas are available. We reviewed a peppermint tea; peppermint will help clear up stuffy nasal passages. This tea has a unique creamy consistency and mild chocolate taste.

PROS

  • ​Smells wonderful
  • Larger than average tea bags

​CONS

  • ​Very expensive for tea
  • Slightly bitter taste

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

Herbal tea treats sinusitis symptoms mildly.  It provides relief, but don’t expect it to blast your sinus clear.

Ease of Use

​It is easy to use. Boil water, let the tea bag steep for about five minutes, and enjoy!

​When to Use

​Herbal tea has no caffeine, so it won’t make you jittery. Drink it throughout the day for continuous relief.

[amazon link=”B07GSJBLJV” title=”Vitamin C+ Gummies” /]

[amazon box=”B07GSJBLJV”]

Description

​Vitamin C supports the immune system. It contains bioflavonoids, an antioxidant that reduces inflammation. These supplements come in gummies to make them easy and fun to take.

PROS

  • ​Reviewers loved chewing the gummies
  • Company is well known and trusted for its high quality

​CONS

  • ​Bottle only contains a month’s worth of gummies
  • Very expensive for just 30 gummies

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

​Effectiveness is difficult to test since vitamins show their benefits over time.

Ease of Use

​Gummies make it easy to take this supplement every day.

​When to Use

​Check with your doctor before taking this (or any) vitamin supplement. With his or her approval, take two per day.

[amazon link=”B07GVPS9H9″ title=”Elder-Mune” /]

[amazon box=”B07GVPS9H9″]

Description

​This zinc pill also contains vitamin C. Combined with elderberries, this tasty supplement is designed to provide immune system support.

PROS

  • ​A convenient combo of vitamin C and zinc
  • Gummies are a great alternative to pills

​CONS

  • ​Expensive for the number of gummies
  • High sugar content for a supplement

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

Effectiveness can’t be gauged.  

Ease of Use

​These are easy to take; just chew the gummies.

​When to Use

​With a doctors approval, take two per day.

[amazon link=”B014BBM1KU” title=”Essential Oil” /]

[amazon box=”B014BBM1KU”]

Description

Essential oils are some of the most popular home remedies for sinus infections. This roll-on essential oil combines peppermint, sage, ginger, and fennel for a unique scent that clears sinuses and soothes headaches.

PROS

  • ​Convenient roll-on bottle
  • A nice combination of essential oils

​CONS

  • ​Strong scent
  • Some reviewers had allergic reactions

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

Some reviewers found this essential oil roll-on effective in relieving their headaches, while others claimed it gave them a headache. Some people will have negative reactions to essential oils.

Ease of Use

​Roll-on is easy to toss in a purse and use whenever necessary.

​When to Use

​Use this product (and all essential oil products) after consultation with your doctor. Essential oils can be powerful home remedies for sinus infections, but they can also cause allergic reactions. Some people, such as pregnant women, should avoid some essential oils.

[amazon link=”B06XP3B13K” title=”Vitamin D” /]

[amazon box=”B06XP3B13K”]

De​​​scription

​Vitamin D acts as an anti-inflammatory; taking it daily should help to cut down inflamed nasal passages. It also helps bones absorb calcium. It is also thought to improve mood and overall energy.

PROS

  • ​Pills are small and easy to swallow
  • Single pill with many health benefits

​CONS

  • ​Contains corn syrup and malotextrin, which some people avoid

Where to Buy

​Amazon

Effectiveness

Effectiveness will vary with each person.

Ease of Use

​Small pills are easy to swallow.

​When t​​​o Use

​With a doctor’s permission, this supplement should be taken daily.

​The Verdict

fresh slice of orange and Vitamin C supplement, good sources of vitamins and

Image Source: Pixabay.com

​Our review of home remedies for sinus infections explored a number of products and approaches to treatment. In our review, the most effective product, by far, was the Navage Nose Cleaner. Many reviewers loved this sinus irrigation device. For someone with frequent sinus infections, this product might be a great investment. The downside of the Nose Cleaner is that some people, no matter how effective the device, will be put off by having their nasal passages “vacuumed” out. For those people, we recommend the Vicks Personal Steam Inhaler. A blast of steam provides soothing relief to sinuses. It’s a simple remedy that can be used even without a steam inhaler: boil water, pour it into a bowl, and add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil. Throw a towel over your head to make a little tent and put your face over the bowl. Inhale the steam and let your sinuses breathe!