When coming down with a cold, there are many symptoms that are less than ideal. Especially the constant flow of mucus dripping down the back of throat that leads to coughing, sore throats, and general discomfort. This drip is known as sinus drainage, and if you’ve ever experienced it, you know how aggravating it can be. That is why we are sharing “Natural Remedies for Sinus Drainage” below.
What is Sinus Drainage?
Sinus drainage, also known as nasal drainage or postnasal drip, is the process in which mucus produced in the nasal passages and sinuses flows down the back of the throat and into the upper part of the digestive tract. It’s normal and a necessary bodily function to keep your nasal passages moist and to eliminate any foreign particles, such as dust, bacteria, and viruses from the respiratory system.
However, once it becomes irritated from a common cold, sinus infection, nasal polyps, or allergic rhinitis, it produces excess mucus that results in increased sinus drainage. This excess mucus can lead to various symptoms such a runny or stuffy nose, mucus dripping down the back of the throat, coughing, and throat irritation.
Sinus drainage can occur in various ways and be associated with various conditions. Most clear drainage is normal and may occur when you have a cold, allergies, or experience changes in temperature.
Those may include:
Postnasal Drip: Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus produced in the sinuses flows down the back of the throat. This can lead to a sensation of mucus or fluid in the throat causing coughing or throat clearing.
Anterior Drainage: This type of sinus drainage involves mucus and other fluids flowing from the sinuses into the nasal passages. It can result in a runny or stuffy nose and is common in conditions like allergic rhinitis and sinusitis.
Purulent Drainage: Purulent drainage is characterized by thick, yellow, or greenish mucus. It is often associated with sinus infections, such as bacterial sinusitis. The color is due to the presence of white blood cells and bacteria in the mucus.
How To Combat Sinus Drainage with Lifestyle Changes
If you’re currently experiencing sinus drainage, sinus pressure, and looking for a treatment for nasal drip or maybe even sinusitis or rhinosinusitis treatment options, we have various natural ways to help stop the constant mucus flow and sinus pressure causing a headache.
- Stay Hydrated
It’s simple. Drink water and stay well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep mucus thin and flowing, reducing congestion, and promoting sinus health. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, can also provide relief.
- Herbal Remedies
There are several herbal remedies that can make all the difference with sinus drainage and congestion. Those include:
Echinacea: known for its immune-boosting properties
Fenugreek: used as an expectorant to loosen mucus and produce productive coughs
Holy Basil: an herb great for relieving sinus congestion
Barberry: known for its immune boosting abilities and reducing sinus congestion.
And of course, Forces of Nature Sinus Relief Maximum Strength combines all of these herbal wonders to provide instant relief and acts on the root cause helping prevent recurrence.
- Breathe in Steam
A classic remedy, no doubt, is inhaling steam to combat sinus issues. Whether you boil water and inhale from a bowl or take a piping hot shower that fills the bathroom with steam, inhaling steam can help clear your nasal passage and relieve sinus congestion. For an added benefit, try adding a few drops of essential oils.
Another great way to introduce moisture is by putting a humidifier in your room at night. Using a humidifier can be a helpful and natural way to alleviate sinus drainage and related symptoms by adding an increased production of moisture in the air.
- Try A Saline Nasal Rinse
Saline nasal irrigation involves flushing out your nasal passages with a saline solution. You can use a Neti pot such as NeilMed or XLEAR or a nasal spray such as Sovereign Silver Bio-Active Silver Hydrosol Natural Nasal Spray. The saline solution helps remove mucus, allergens, and irritants providing relief from sinus drainage and congestion. Make sure to use distilled or sterile water for this remedy to avoid any risk of infection.
- Acupressure and Self-Massage
Acupressure and self-massage can be effective natural techniques to relieve sinus drainage and associated discomfort. These practices help stimulate specific pressure points and promote drainage easing congestion and alleviating symptoms. Various tools that can be used at home include Gua sha, a jade roller, or a facial acupressure pen.
Dealing with sinus drainage isn’t fun, but we hope that these natural remedies offer a gentle way to find relief. By staying hydrated, using steam inhalation, practicing saline nasal irrigation, and incorporating herbal remedies into your routine, you can alleviate sinus drainage symptoms and promote better sinus health. Remember that while these remedies can provide relief, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen.
