We have all been there – having a perfectly good day when breathing becomes slightly more difficult due to excessive mucus and swollen nasal cavities. The cause of such symptoms may be contributed to allergies or the common cold, and treating clogged sinuses is typically done through nasal sprays; however, nasal sprays utilize synthetic chemicals and if used regularly can become habit forming.
For thousands of years, civilizations have utilized ginger for various medicinal uses, and while modern science has disproven many of its traditional uses if you wish to cleanse your sinus the active compounds within this herb may prove to be beneficial. Talk with your doctor before inhaling or ingesting ginger to ensure its safety; especially if you’re taking medications or have a respiratory ailment such as asthma or severe allergies.
Ginger Active Constituents:
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the active constituents within ginger include volatile oils, gingerols, shogaols and pungent phenols. Traditionally, the compounds found in ginger have been used to treat a variety of medical ailments, which include: diarrhea, nausea, cardiovascular system problems, arthritis pain and upset stomach.
Ginger and Sinus Cleansing:
Although there is very little data regarding the effectiveness of ginger on the sinuses, due to the pungent phenols and volatile oils, ginger may be used as an expectorant.
Expectorants are compounds known to promote the release of excessive phlegm and mucus from your nasal cavities, throat and lungs. By expelling mucus from your nasal cavities, you may experience enhanced breathing or a decline in discomfort due to nasal pressure. It is important to note that no scientific studies have been performed to ensure its effectiveness; however, due to its long lasting use in home medicine it is generally considered safe.
Usage Instructions:
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you may inhale ginger vapors to help relieve cold and flu symptoms. To do so, bring 8 to 10 ounces of water to a rolling boil, and place the steaming water into a heat-safe bowl. Place one to two drops of ginger essential oils into the steaming water and while draping a towel over your head, lean over the rising steam and breathe deeply.
Make sure you keep tissues close by as the vapor will cause any mucus or phlegm in your nose and throat to be released.
References Used:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/961.html
MedlinePlus: Ginger
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/ginger-000246.htm
University of Maryland Medical Center: Ginger