Ayurveda Treatment For Sinusitis

Ayurveda Treatment For Sinusitis

What is Sinusitis?

Sinuses are cavities within a bone or other tissue, especially the one in the bones of the face or skull connecting with the nasal cavities.

The sinus cavities include:

• Maxillary sinuses -           in the cheekbones.
• Frontal sinuses-                in the low center of the forehead.
• Ethmoid sinuses-             between the eyes, at the nasal bridge.
• Sphenoid sinuses-in         bones behind the nasal cavity.

Inflammation of the sinus cavity from bacteria or viruses is called as Sinusitis.

It has its own localized pain signals, depending upon the particular sinus affected. Each sinus has an opening into the nose for the free exchange of air and mucous, and a continuous mucous membrane lining joins each sinus with the nasal passages.

Therefore, anything that causes a swelling in the nose, either an infection or an allergic reaction can affect the sinuses.  Recurrent headache or congestion that changes with head position and disappear shortly after getting out of bed is the characteristic of sinus involvement.

Symptoms:

• ·         Fever
• ·         Tiredness
• ·         Headache
• ·         Nasal congestion and running nose sometimes
• ·         Swelling of the face
• ·         Post nasal drip
• ·         Cough
• ·         Sore throat

Sinusitis can be caused by infections, allergies, or medicines. It can also occur because of changes in temperature, air pressure and irritants in the air. Nasal polyps and other problems with the sinuses also increase the probability of getting sinusitis.

Sometimes, fungal infections can cause acute sinusitis. Although these organisms are a lot in the environment, they usually are harmless, indicating that the human body has a natural resistance to them. Fungi can cause serious illness in people whose immune systems are not functioning properly. Inhaling airborne allergens such as dust, mould and pollen, often set off allergic reactions that, in turn, contribute to sinusitis.

Management Of Sinusitis:

In Ayurveda, this condition can be correlated to Dushta Pratishyaya, where the main dosha affected is Kapha. It get aggravated and vitiates the Prana Vata (a sub type of Vata), which is mainly present in the respiratory tract. In this condition, the kapha is covered by Aama, the undigested sticky remains of food which is a resultant of improper Digestive fire. Hence a correct line of treatment will be first

• ·         Balancing the digestive fire,
• ·         Cleaning the Aama,
• ·         Pacifying the vitiated Kapha
• ·         Ensuring proper movement of the Prana Vata through the respiratory passages.

For bringing out the Aama and polluted kapha from the body, Panchakarma is the best tool. Especially, in this condition, Nasya has to be used. With this, all the blocked up mucous in the sinuses which are a form of the Kapha comes out which gives great relief to the patients. Once the passages are cleared, Vata can move easily in its path. This is indicated for chronic and recurrent cases of sinusitis. Acute cases can be effectively managed with internal medicines, steam inhalations and hot fomentation over the painful parts of the face and mild massage. This gives the desired effect of liquefaction and drainage of kapha. Internal medicines for improving the digestion and regulation of bowel are an important aspect of management.

People having chronic and recurrent sinusitis will be greatly benefitted by Yoga and Pranayama. The breathing practices involved in Pranayama helps in proper circulation of Prana Vata which effectively drains the nasal sinuses and prevents any blockages from developing.

Diet & Lifestyle:

Since Vata and kapha are the main causative factor for this condition, one should avoid food and activities which causes its disturbance.

• ·         One must avoid cold, oily and heavy foods.
• ·         Digestion and bowels should be regulated with healthy and light foods.
• ·         Head bath with cold water must be avoided.
• ·         Ice creams and cold beverages should be strictly avoided.
• ·         At the first sign of flu and common cold, one must take precautionary measures like steam inhalation, hot fomentation and warm soups etc.
• ·         Regular use of Nasya with Anu tail is beneficial.
• ·         Regular practice of yoga and Pranayama.
• ·         Day sleep should be avoided.
• ·         Avoid exposure to cold.

Nasya treatment:

Nasya is among the 5 panchakarma (Ayurvedic detoxification therapies) techniques. It is the application of herbal substances into the nose. ‘NASA HE SHIRSO DWARAM’- The nose is the gateway into the head, the sinuses, and deeper into the lungs. The most common Nasya treatment includes the application of Ghee or Oil, sometimes with additional powdered herbs.

Nasya enhances mental and sensory acuity, promotes mental clarity and emotional happiness, clears the nose and sinuses of obstruction, bestows a clear voice, promotes lightness of the body, soothes dryness in the nose, and eliminates the symptoms of disease.

With continuous usage it improves skin texture and complexion, stops or delays graying hair and alopecia, and strengthens the neck, shoulders and arms. Nasya is indicated for all chronic disorders of the head and neck, disorders of the brain and central nervous system, chronic upper respiratory disorders, chronic headaches and migraines, disorders of the eyes, ears, mouth, throat and the glandular structures of the head.

Nasya eliminates excess doshas (metabolic waste product) from the head and when applied with oil or ghee it nourishes as it cleanses.