The nasal passages are lined with membranes that constantly produce small amount of mucus to trap and remove any irritant that enters the nose during breathing. This mucus also functions to protect the thin membranes from drying out. The natural production of mucus is stimulated by various factors that sometimes lead to problems of excess mucus, called catarrh. These factors include external irritants such as airborne pollution (eg. cigarette smoke, petrol fumes, pollen, dust etc), allergy, food intolerance, cold and damp weather, stress as well as dental problems.
Rhinitis (rai-nai-tis)
Inflammation of the lining of the nose.
Characteristics:
Allergic Rhinitis – sneezing, itching, nasal congestion and nasal discharge that is clear and copious. There will usually be a strong family history of allergy. It is triggered by inhaled allergens.
Non-Allergic Rhinitis – similar to above symptoms but nasal congestion is scant and whitish. It usually occurs at adulthood. There is no identified medical cause but herbalists believe that it may be exacerbated by a poor diet. A state of gradual internal build-up of toxins due to unhealthy lifestyle and diet is often an overlooked point.
Sinusitis (sai-nu-sai-tis)
Inflammation of one or more of the membrane-lined air spaces in the facial bones that communicate with the nose. There is usually bacterial infection due to blocked sinus drainage. Symptoms of sinusitis depend on the site of involvement – nasal congestion, facial pain (often misinterpreted as toothache), headaches, a sensation of pressure around the nose-eye region and sometimes, purulent post-nasal drip. Children often have a chronic cough.
Rhinitis and sinusitis have become more common worldwide than ever before, particularly among children and young adults. The nasal congestion isn’t just an annoyance. Chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract can result in other problems such as chronic cough, recurrent nosebleeds and nasal polyps. Other complaints, namely asthma, eczema and vaginal yeast infections, also often go hand in hand with rhinitis and sinusitis. Therefore, letting that nasal congestion linger longer than necessary may not be the best option for your overall health.
Herbs To Clear Nasal Congestion
The aim of herbal therapy is to normalize and regulate the immune system, decongest and remove stagnation of mucus, plus to deliver natural antibiotic effect to the upper respiratory area. General herbs that are popular for nasal congestion such as Horseradish, Elderflower and Garlic may be taken to initially decrease the thickness of the mucus (and hence, encourage easier flow out). However, this approach on its own is quite superficial and temporary. The following herbs are known to be more specific, deep-acting and effective in treating chronic problems:
Goldenseal – This plant is native to North America and over the years has proved so popular that its existence may be endangered due to over-harvesting. Goldenseal is the herb of choice for any condition presenting with chronic, persistent inflammation of the mucous membranes, particularly rhinitis and sinusitis. It effectively reduces catarrh and congestion, stimulates the body’s natural defence system and restores the health of the membranes. However, Goldenseal has a very distinctive bitter taste and children may refuse to take it! In cases such as this, the herb Ribwort may be a better replacement for kids.
Albizzia – This Ayurvedic herb is highly recommended for allergic conditions like allergic rhinitis and sinusitis, asthma and eczema. Albizzia has a remarkable way of dampening an over-reactive immune response without adversely affecting the natural workings of the natural defence system. It is an excellent choice for children as the nasal congestion is usually of early onset. For adults where the congestion is more stubborn and chronic, the herb Poke Root is indicated. Poke Root should only be administered by a qualified herbalist and not recommended for self-medication as its dosage should be closely monitored.
EXTRA HELP FOR PEOPLE
WITH BLOCKED NOSE
- Vitamin C with added Bioflavonoids 1000mg twice a day
- Omega-3 fatty acid 1000mg twice a day
- Garlic 1000mg a day
- Plenty of purified water, at least 2 Litres
* dosages are for adults.
Eat Your Way To Health
Herbalists believe that certain foods are “mucus forming” and can create a state of catarrh that predisposes a person to either rhinitis or sinusitis. These dietary components which contribute to the process do not necessary give a positive reaction on an allergy testing procedure (namely the RAST or Skin Prick Test). Sufferers should try to avoid dairy products, wheat products, salt and eggs for three months to gauge improvement.
Patricia Loh is an educator and writer on natural therapies. She is a qualified clinical herbalist and operates a herbal centre in Subang Jaya. Comments and inquiries: herbz@tm.net.my or 03-5631 7751.
THE SUN, INSERTION DATE: 24 JUNE 2003
