Blocked Sinuses (The Sunday Times, 06 November 2005)

Printer friendly page


Q Every year in autumn/winter, I suffer from blocked sinuses, often accompanied by a cough, and I feel as if my head is under water. I have been prescribed antibiotics, which didn’t help. I am not on any other medication. Please can you suggest some natural alternatives.



A. A geranium-type plant that grows in South Africa has been used by the Zulus for centuries to treat respiratory illnesses. The botanical name of the plant is Pelargonium sidoides. It is a safe, effective alternative to conventional treatment of many upper respiratory-tract infections. A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on patients suffering from acute sinusitis showed the following: patients who took the placebo saw no significant change in their symptoms over 21 days, but patients who took pelargonium saw an 80% progressive symptom relief over the same period. MedicHerb Pelargonium is available by mail order from Sunshine Health (£8.99 for 30 tablets; 01453 751395). You should take one tablet three times daily until two days after all symptoms have disappeared.

I would also suggest reducing your intake of foods such as dairy products, citrus fruit and bananas, which in eastern medicine are considered to increase mucus levels, and include warming spices, such as cinnamon, black pepper, clove, ginger and cardamom, as these help to decongest and break up mucus in your diet.



By using this website or any of it's information you are agreeing to these terms and conditions.