According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a complete medical system practiced for over 2500 years and counting, the two common causes of sinus issues are low immunity and weak digestion. Low immunity makes our bodies more susceptible to external influences such as wind, cold, heat, dampness and dryness - once they invade a weakened body, they can cause respiratory and other problems. A by-product of a weak digestion is excess fluid and mucus which collects in our lungs, noses and sinuses. Eating foods that are easy to digest, warm and nourishing may help clear up the problem. If you would like a consultation, diagnosis and specific treatment plan for your nasal discomfort, schedule an appointment with me.
The following are some things you can do at home now, to ease the discomfort and are things the ancients knew to do thousands of years ago.
Sinus Steam
Making your own steam inhalation
Boiling water.
A handful of herbs ( Use a tablespoon or two of each such as: eucalyptus leaves, peppermint, rosemary, thyme and lavender)
2-3 drops essential oil.
A large heatproof bowl.
A towel.
Optional: Dead sea salt and lemon rind.
Add boiling water and ingredients to the heatproof bowl. Place towel over your head and bowl. Breath in herbal steam for 10-15 minutes.
Acupressure Points for Sinus Discomfort Head acupressure: Put your fingers on your head and use your thumbs to find and press two points - located on either side of your neck muscles in a depression at the base of your skull. Press deeply and rub for 1-2 minutes, several times a day for sinus problems, head colds, headaches and sore eyes.
Yin Tang or Third Eye Point: This is the most powerful acupressure point in TCM for a variety of issues. It is stimulated exactly between the eyebrows, on the curve where the bridge of the nose meets the forehead. Close your eyes, bring your palms together and place on the point. Use your middle and index fingers to gently press the point for 1 minute while taking long, slow and deep breaths. It will calm the entire body, relieve anxiety, headaches, vertigo, dizziness and nasal congestion.
LI 4: Spread your thumb and index finger apart. Squeeze the webbing in-between with your other thumb and index finger. Angle the pressure towards the bone that connects your index finger. Hold for one minute. Switch sides. The point relieves colds, flu, head congestions, constipation and headaches. Do not use on pregnant women.
Nose Rub Rub your hands together to warm them up. Use the palm of one hand to rub the tip of your nose in a circular motion, 15-20 times. Now do 15-20 times in the opposite direction. Do this several times a day for sinus problems, nasal congestion and a stuffy nose.
There are many more ancient Chinese secrets to help you live a healthier and higher quality of life. If you are interested in learning more, please schedule a consultation with me.
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