Sinusitis is most often a bacterial infection, though one usually resulting from another underlying cause. Infection occurs when inflammation or other swelling seals the normally patent sinus cavities, which quickly results in an anaerobic environment conducive to the growth of certain bacteria, often Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis. Negative pressure resulting from the depletion of oxygen in the sinus accounts for most of the associated pain, although if left untreated the infection can proceed to life-threatening complications. Sinusitis can be acute or chronic, often depending on whether the root cause is acute or chronic. The most common triggering causes are allergic inflammation of the nasal mucosa, chronic irritation (e.g., from tobacco smoke), a preceding viral upper respiratory infection (URI), an undiagnosed dental infection, or chronic obstruction due to nasal polyps. Treating sinusitis should involve reducing congestion and inflammation to allow drainage while supporting the immune system and, as necessary, addressing the root cause to prevent recurrence (you may wish to refer to the Allergies (Inhalant) section of this guide). Fungal sinusitis, while uncommon, can become a significant issue in immune-compromised patients and requires aggressive therapy.
Homeopathics
BAC HP™- (will rename to B HP) high-potency formula indicated for bacterial infections.**
Bactestat™- (will rename to Lymphastat B) homeopathic detoxifier indicated for bacterial infections.**
Dairy Antigens™- homeopathic antigen blend indicated for symptoms due to dairy sensitivity.**
Envirostat™- homeopathic detoxifier for environmental pollution, indicated for symptoms associated with smog, dust, and industrial agents.**
Fungustat II™- (will rename to Femstat C) homeopathic detoxifier indicated for symptoms associated with exposure to mold or fungi.**
Mold Antigens™- homeopathic antigen blend indicated for symptoms due to exposure to mold or fungi.**
* Sinuchron HP™- (will rename to Sinus HP) high-potency formula specifically indicated for sinusitis and chronic sinus issues.**
* Sinutone™- homeopathic tonifier for the sinuses, indicated for relief of runny nose, nasal mucus with yellow green discharge, pain and swelling of the sinus cavities, and postnasal drip.**
V HP™- high-potency formula indicated for viral infections.**
Virustat™- (will rename to Lymphastat V) homeopathic detoxifier indicated for viral infections.**
Herbals
* Allercom™- (Will rename Histacom) fortifier for the respiratory and immune systems, indicated for relief of occasional sinus congestion.
Echinacom™ or Echinacom C™–fortifier for the immune system, indicated to support lymphatic drainage and to tonify mucous membranes.
Gencom™- fortifier for the blood and general system detoxifier.
Goldenseal– this single spagyric herbal is one of the best to support and tonify mucous membranes.
Inflammacom™- (will rename to Turmericom) fortifier for the immune system, indicated to support a healthy and balanced inflammatory response.
Lapachocom™- fortifier for the immune system, indicated in lowered vitality states.
Mulleincom™- fortifier for the respiratory system, indicated to support the nose and respiratory tract.
* Myrrhcom™- fortifier for the sinuses and immune system, indicated for sinus and mucous membrane support.
Propolicom™- fortifier for the immune system, indicated to support throat and mucous membranes.
Trifolocom™- fortifier for the lymphatic system and spleen, indicated to support lymphatic drainage.
Nutritionals
C-TR 1500– time-released vitamin C to support the immune system.
Immunique™- a balanced supplement providing vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients for immune support.
Immunique™ Silver–10 parts per million of silver nanoparticles indicated for immune support.
* N-Acetyl Cysteine Plus– indicated as a detoxifier and natural mucolytic[i].
Additional Considerations
Steam inhalation, especially with relaxing essential oils such as peppermint, can help to open the airway and relieve symptoms. Herbal teas and hot homemade soups can also help keep mucus flowing, relieving sinus pressure. Sugars and dairy products may increase mucus production in certain people and should be avoided.
Keeping the home free of dust, molds, and chemicals can help in chronic cases. For many, relief can be obtained by using a vaporizer, an air conditioner, or an air purifier. The patient should not smoke and should avoid second-hand smoke.
If nasal secretions are clear after one week, it is most likely not an infection, but an allergy. Mucus that becomes greenish, purulent, or tinged with blood is strongly indicative of an infection.
[i] Sadowska AM. N-Acetylcysteine mucolysis in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ther Adv Respir Dis. 2012;6(3):127‐135. doi:10.1177/1753465812437563
*Denotes primary remedy.
**These statements are based upon traditional homeopathic practice.
**Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Revised 3/1/21