Natural Remedies for Sinus Infection
Natural remedies to relieve sinus pressure, congestion, and sinus infection symptoms. Below you'll find evidence-based remedies that grandmothers have used for generations, now verified by modern medical research.
1. Eucalyptus Oil
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How It Helps
Eucalyptus oil's 1,8-cineole opens sinus passages, thins mucus, and has antimicrobial properties against bacteria that cause sinus infections.
🔬 What the Research Says
A 2010 randomized trial in Respiratory Medicine found cineole (eucalyptus main component) significantly improved sinus symptoms and nasal airflow compared to placebo in acute sinusitis.
[1] Cineole treatment for acute sinusitis - Respiratory Medicine (2010)
📋 How to Use
Steam inhalation: add 5-7 drops to a bowl of hot water, tent a towel over head, and breathe deeply for 10 minutes. Repeat 2-3 times daily.
💊 Dosage
5-7 drops eucalyptus oil in steam inhalation, 2-3 times daily. Or use in a diffuser throughout the day.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
Do not ingest essential oil. Avoid near faces of infants. May cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
🛒 Recommended Products
NOW Essential Oils Eucalyptus
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2. Bromelain
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How It Helps
Bromelain reduces sinus mucosal swelling and thins mucus, improving drainage. It is approved in Germany as a treatment for sinus inflammation.
🔬 What the Research Says
Studies in Alternative Therapies found bromelain reduces nasal mucosal inflammation, improves breathing difficulty, and speeds recovery from sinusitis when added to standard treatment.
[1] Bromelain for sinusitis and nasal inflammation - Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine (2013)
📋 How to Use
Take bromelain supplements between meals for anti-inflammatory effect (with meals it acts as a digestive enzyme instead).
💊 Dosage
500mg bromelain 3 times daily between meals for sinus relief.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
May cause GI upset. Avoid if allergic to pineapple. Caution with blood thinners.
🛒 Recommended Products
NOW Bromelain 500mg
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3. Garlic
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How It Helps
Allicin in garlic has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties that fight sinus infection pathogens. It also boosts immune function to speed recovery.
🔬 What the Research Says
Research demonstrates garlic's broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and viruses that commonly cause sinus infections, including Staphylococcus aureus.
[1] Antimicrobial properties of garlic against pathogens - Pertanika Journal (2015)
📋 How to Use
Eat 2-3 cloves of raw garlic daily during infection. Crush and let sit 10 minutes first. Add to soup or broth - the steam also helps clear sinuses.
💊 Dosage
2-3 raw garlic cloves daily, or 600-1200mg aged garlic extract.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
Garlic breath and odor. May cause heartburn. Caution with blood thinners.
🛒 Recommended Products
Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract
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4. Honey
Did this remedy work for you?
How It Helps
Honey, especially Manuka honey, has potent antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties. It can help fight chronic sinus infections where bacteria form resistant biofilms.
🔬 What the Research Says
A 2020 BMJ systematic review confirmed honey's broad antimicrobial activity. Additional research shows Manuka honey is effective against biofilm-forming bacteria common in chronic sinusitis.
[1] Honey for respiratory tract infections - BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine (2020)
📋 How to Use
Take 1-2 tablespoons raw honey orally for immune support. Can also add to warm water for a soothing sinus steam drink.
💊 Dosage
1-2 tablespoons raw honey 2-3 times daily during sinus infection.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
Safe for adults. Never give to children under 12 months.
🛒 Recommended Products
Wedderspoon Raw Manuka Honey
★★★★★ 4.6 · $18-28
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Browse All ConditionsLast reviewed: February 2026