Made by fermenting crushed apples, apple cider vinegar contains various minerals, dietary fiber, and vitamins. The fermented juice also contains acetic acid as well as citric acid. Majorly used as a flavoring agent, apple cider vinegar can also be used for obesity, diabetes, problems related to hair and skin. Due to its anti-inflammatory benefits, it can also treat sinusitis.
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Benefits of apple cider vinegar for sinus
Boosting up immunity
There is a substance in organic, cold-pressed apple cider vinegar known as “must”. These are the pieces of apple fermenting in the juice. They also contain a colony of bacteria that act as probiotics when you consume them. The probiotics give a boost to ward off the infection in the sinuses.
Loosening of mucus
The acidity of apple cider vinegar helps in loosening phlegm from the throat. It thins out the mucus from the respiratory system and triggers a fast recovery. In addition to this, the vinegar also kills various pathogens responsible for the infection.
Rich in nutrients
Apple cider vinegar is rich in various nutrients. Some of the nutrients that are found in apple cider vinegar are-
- Potassium
- Vitamin C
- Antioxidants
- Vitamin E
How to take apple cider vinegar for treating sinus
Apple cider vinegar with honey
For better results in treating sinusitis, mix apple cider vinegar with honey. This is an age-old remedy that can treat the common cold, sore throat, and even sinus congestion.
Gargling with apple cider vinegar
If you are out of honey, use apple cider vinegar as a substitute for gargling. Mix 1/4th of warm water with 1/4th cup of vinegar. Gargle with this mixture for 2 minutes to alleviate sinus pressure.
Rubbing throat with apple cider vinegar
You can rub a little bit of apple cider vinegar on the throat and around the sinuses to get relief from the stuffy nose. The pungent smell of apple cider vinegar can loosen out nasal congestion and aid in breathing more easily. Moreover, it also boosts up immunity to fight infection.
Taking apple cider vinegar pills
If you are someone who doesn’t like the taste of apple cider vinegar, then you can take apple cider vinegar pills as an alternative. However, the pills don’t contain the same amount of vitamin C as available in raw apple cider vinegar.
Side effects of using apple cider vinegar for sinus
Owing to its acidic properties, the vinegar can cause some side effects. Some of the side effects reported so far after taking apple cider vinegar are-
- Irritating the stomach and esophagus lining
- Erosion of tooth enamel over time
People suffering from stomach ulcers, or acid reflux should avoid apple cider vinegar.
8 Home Remedies for Treating Sinus Infection
Apply hot compress
An effective method to treat sinus infection is to drain out the clogged mucus by applying a hot compress. To make a warm compress, dip a clean towel in hot water, squeeze out the extra water and place it on the cheeks and forehead to alleviate sinus pressure.
Inhale steam
Another useful home remedy for treating sinus infection at home is inhaling steam. Inhale steam for 10-15 minutes that loosens the thickened mucus. In the hot water, add a few drops of essential oil such as eucalyptus or peppermint oil for better results.
Drink plenty of warm fluids
Ensure to incorporate plenty of fluids in the diet such as warm broths, soup and clear liquids to reduce inflammation and pain in the sinuses. These not only lubricate mucus membranes but also prevents the thickening of the mucus.
Massage gently on sinus pressure points
Gently massage on the cheeks or forehead with oil to get relief from sinus pressure and reduce inflammation.Use a neti pot
Irrigate the nasal passages and flush out the nasal cavity with neti pot. In addition to this, this also clears out bacteria and viruses accumulated in the nasal airways.
Inhale moist air
Dry nasal airways can lead to chronic sinusitis. Hence, inhale moist air as it provides moisture and humidity within the nose.
Add spices
In your daily diet, add spicy foods, such as cayenne pepper, to reduce sinusitis symptoms. This will also help to decongest the nose and prevent mucus development.
Consume ginger
To treat nasal problems, take ginger. Renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it can alleviate sinus congestion instantly. Take ginger tea or juice regularly to get relief.
Also Read: Home remedies to cure sinus headache
Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar is an effective remedy that can provide relief from sinusitis. However, people suffering from chronic sinusitis due to a deformed septum or development of nasal polyps may have to go undergo surgery.
Generally, ENT doctors recommend Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) for treating nasal polyps and a septoplasty for a deviated septum. If you are looking to know more about these surgeries, get in touch with our ENT specialists or visit our website.
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