If you’re one of the millions of people who suffer from sinus infections, you’ve experienced the misery they can bring. Congestion, headaches, and fatigue are just a few of the common symptoms that can keep you from doing the things you enjoy.
Thankfully, some foods can help ease symptoms and speed up recovery. Try reaching for one of these foods for sinus infection relief the next time you’re feeling stuffy.
1. Garlic
Garlic has long been used as a natural remedy for sinus infections and other respiratory ailments. It’s thought to work by thinning out mucus, making it easier to drain from your sinuses. It’s also a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation. You can add garlic to your diet by eating it raw, cooked, or in supplement form.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Like garlic, cayenne pepper is thought to help by thinning out mucus and reducing inflammation. It may also help reduce congestion by opening up your nasal passages. Cayenne pepper can be added to food or taken in supplement form. Just be careful not to overdo it, as cayenne pepper can be pretty spicy.
3. Ginger
Ginger helps with sinus infections by reducing inflammation and easing congestion. Ginger can be consumed in many ways, including fresh, dried, or supplement form.
4. Antioxidant-Rich Foods
Antioxidants are nutrients that help protect your cells from damage. They’re found in many different foods, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Eating foods rich in antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and speed up your recovery from a sinus infection. Some good options include blueberries, strawberries, kale, and broccoli.
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of healthy fat shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. They’re found in fish, such as salmon and tuna, and in particular plant oils. Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your diet may help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms of a sinus infection.
6. Honey
Honey is often used as a natural cough remedy. It’s thought to work by coating the throat and relieving irritation. Honey may also help reduce inflammation and ease congestion. Add a spoonful of honey to your tea, or take it straight by the spoonful.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another ingredient that’s often used in home remedies. It’s thought to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight off infection and reduce swelling. Apple cider vinegar can be consumed in small amounts or used as a compress.
8. Horseradish
Horseradish is a pungent root vegetable often used as a natural remedy for sinus infections. Like other foods on this list, it’s thought to help by thinning out mucus and reducing inflammation. Horseradish can be consumed in small amounts, added to food, or taken in supplement form.
9. Herbal Teas
Herbal teas can be a natural and effective way to treat sinus infections and seasonal allergies. Many herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and irritation in the sinuses. Additionally, herbal teas can help thin mucus and promote drainage, making breathing easier. When brewed with fresh ginger or peppermint, these teas can also help to soothe a scratchy throat.
While there’s no cure for sinus infections, these foods may help ease your symptoms and speed up your recovery. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and get rest while you’re fighting off an infection. If your symptoms persist for more than a week or get worse, be sure to see your doctor.
