Most of us never think about our sinuses when we take a deep breath through the nose. For others, these tiny air passages are a source of discomfort that last up to 12 weeks at least four times a year.
Let's look at why sinus issues develop, and how to help them through Maharishi AyurVeda.
The Ayurvedic view of sinus infections
Sinus issues are actually caused by an underlying imbalance in Prana Vata (the subdosha of Vata that governs the brain, head, and the mind) and Shleshaka Kapha (a subdosha of Kapha, which governs lubrication and moisture balance).
When these two subdoshas are simultaneously imbalanced, another complication arises. Ama, the sticky waste-product of digestion, gets mixed with Shleshaka Kapha in the sinus area, forming an even more toxic, sticky mucus called Shleshma. Shleshma settles in the area and clogs the channels of the sinuses. Due to the restriction and blocking, Pitta dosha also becomes imbalanced.
When all three doshas are out of balance, immunity is severely compromised. The body becomes a fertile ground for microbes, allergens, or viruses. Air pollution, stress, fluctuations of hot and cold weather, and lifestyle patterns such as eating excessive amounts of cold, sweet, heavy foods, staying up too late, or not getting enough exercise can aggravate the imbalance.
Sinus support: Ayurvedic treatment plan
Eat to beat congestion
Pacify Prana Vata and Shleshaka Kapha by following a Vata-Kapha pacifying diet. Eat foods that are not too hot, and also not too cold. Avoid extreme temperatures in food such as chili peppers or ice-cold foods and beverages. Favor cooked, warm meals that are light, nurturing, and easy to digest.
For example, for breakfast you could eat a stewed apple, and for the evening meal try kitchari (a light and nourishing porridge made with two parts rice and one part mung dal) and spiced with the Immunity-Boosting Spice Mix.
Drink plenty of warm water with spices
Drink plenty of water flavored with spices, to purify the sinuses of toxins and to allow the toxic waste that has built up to flow out. Boil two quarts of water, pour the water into a thermos, and add two leaves of basil, two thin slices of ginger, four leaves of mint, two pieces of clove, and ¼ teaspoon of marshmallow root. Keep drinking this water throughout the day, but make it fresh each morning.
Keep bowel movements regular
Make sure your bowel movements are regular, to help detoxify the body and to reestablish a balanced environment in the sinus area. Eat plenty of organic, fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid eating eggplant, banana, tomato and bell pepper, because these clog the channels. Don't skip or delay meals, because that will upset the digestive balance and cause more ama to be created.
Ayurvedic herbs help healthy sinuses
Protection Plus Sinuses has been traditionally used to support a healthy inflammatory response, pacify Shleshaka Kapha, detoxify and support clearer sinuses, and clear away mucus and shleshma. It helps maintain sinus health and boosts immunity.
Some of the 26 herbs contained in the formula pacify Prana Vata and Shleshaka Kapha; others support a healthy inflammatory response; and still others cleanse the channels. The overall effect is to establish a stronger immune system. The herbs also help to separate Shleshaka Kapha and ama, allowing shleshma to drain out and preventing it from forming again.
By following these simple suggestions, you can soothe the whole sinus area and help resist the effects of bacteria and allergens in the environment. For more sinus support, visit the Allergens Wellness Hub.
© 1999, 2023 Maharishi AyurVeda Products International, Inc. (MAPI). All Rights Reserved. MAPI does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. SEE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
