We have become a nation of “drippy noses,” and “stuffy” heads, with rising statistics on asthma and allergies. Dr. Ivker, a family practice physician, says chronic sinusitis is now America’s most common “incurable” chronic ailment. What is causing this epidemic of sinus disease? Dr. Ivker in his book, Sinus Survival, believes the cause is a combination of air pollution and overuse of antibiotics, causing weakened immune systems and yeast overgrowth. Many other factors besides antibiotics can tip the balance in favor of yeast proliferation in the gut and the upper part of the respiratory tract including birth control pills, other drugs, sugar, alcohol and environmental chemicals.

Following are some natural health tips for the relief of sinus related problems:

• Total elimination of milk and milk products for at least three months. Because milk increases congestion and allergic reactions in many people, making this change may help reduce sinusitis.

• It is important to get a good air filtration system for your home, because many allergens and nasal irritants are airborne.

• Practice daily nasal douching, which means inhaling a warm saline solution to help flush out your sinuses. Use 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt to a cup of warm water. Close one nostril and inhale the solution through the other from a cup or your hand. If you find this too difficult, you also can use a rubber bulb syringe or one of the nasal douching appliances (a neti pot, for example).

• Applying a hot, wet compress to your upper face whenever you feel congested will also help your sinuses drain. Work up to as much heat as you can stand and keep it on for 10 minutes at a time, at least once a day.

• Try a diet consisting mostly of 50 percent raw foods (start by steaming lightly or juicing, especially if you are not used to eating raw foods). Avoid foods that cause excess mucus in the gastrointestinal tracts, lungs, sinuses, and nasal cavity. Foods that lead to the formation of mucus are meats, eggs, processed foods, tobacco, junk foods, and white flour products (pasta, white rice and white breads).

• Do not eat a typical American breakfast. Instead have fresh fruits for breakfast and sip hot liquids to help clear the mucus. I like a specific drink made from hot water (not boiling, just hot enough to drink but not hot enough to deactivate the enzymes in the honey and lemon), some fresh lemon or lime and molasses or organic raw honey. It’s a warm sweet and sour drink. Excellent way to start the day.

• Chlorophyll is very important. Since its molecular structure is very similar to hemoglobin in human blood, chlorophyll in green foods can help strengthen the immune system, support healthy blood and circulation as well as help to maintain proper operation of the intestinal tract. A food that is high in the chlorophyll content is wild-crafted blue green algae. It has one of the highest chlorophyll contents of any green food (Simply the Best article).

• Black cumin seeds are very well known in folk remedies in the Middle East. Traditionally, black cumin seed has been used as a nutritional support for the upper part of the respiratory tract. Generally, the seeds are added to food or ground and mixed with raw honey. The primary active components of black cumin seeds are certain oils that reduce the release of histamine. Histamine often causes allergic reactions and is associated with respiratory conditions such as bronchial asthma (Nutrition Science News, Jan. 2001, p.28). You can purchase black cumin seeds from Middle Eastern or Indian grocery stores.

• Coenzyme Q10 is a very powerful antioxidant that can be a good nutritional support for the lungs and the upper part of the respiratory tract. Coenzyme Q10 is a valuable immune system stimulant and can increase cellular oxygenation. Because Coenzyme Q10 is a fat soluble vitamin, a good formula will have Coenzyme Q10 micro blended with organic flax seed oil and blue green algae as both foods are high in essential fatty acids.

• Make sure you are taking enzymes with meals to digest your meals thoroughly. Make sure you are taking acidophilus and bifidus so you can ensure proper levels of good bacteria in the intestine.

• Use your enzymes in between meals on an empty stomach specifically at bed time.

• Avoid air pollution. Change jobs if necessary because your present environment may be dirty, dusty, and toxic to inhale. Do not use aerosol products.

• Rest and avoid stress. Get plenty of fresh air.

• Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Don’t drink with meals, just in between meals (small sips of water).

• Juicing is very helpful because it provides raw ingredients that have lots of nutrients. Use carrot, parsley, celery, kale and different green leafy vegetables like kale and parsley.

• Take a clove or two of fresh organic garlic when you go to sleep at night. Cut it in small pieces and swallow it with a glass of water. Garlic is a natural antibiotic to help prevent infection. Garlic is a strong medicinal food. Therefore, make sure you don’t take raw garlic more than 3 weeks in a row.

• A fast on cayenne powder mixed with fresh lemon juice and organic maple syrup should help with clearing inflammation and help break up the mucus. Drink 8 to 12 glasses throughout the day. Continue this fast for up to 20 days. I’m told by people who have done this fast that emphysema, asthma and sinusitis symptoms may clear up.

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