I have a sinus infection. I am interested in finding alternative health solutio!

I have a sinus infection. I am interested in finding alternative health solutions such as remedies, herbs, an

holistic, natural cures. I am not interested in medical or prescribed over the counter medication. Only those who can share some alternative form of medication need respond to this question. Im especially interested in treating the sinus drain and can use information on responding to the onset of the infection ect.

What causes it-
Sinusitis may occur as a complication of an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or the flu. The linings of the sinuses can be irritated by smoke, air pollution, or allergies as well. In addition, those who have a deviated septum or nasal polyps may also be prone to sinusitis.

Some cases of sinusitis -- a bacterial infection, for instance -- require treatment with antibiotics. However, even conventional medicine is beginning to question the universal application of these drugs, especially for people with chronic sinus conditions, which may not stem from bacteria. In addition, antibiotics don't help the body prevent future sinus infections. Supplements can be used to help clear up an acute sinus infection, even if you're on antibiotic drugs. The recommended vitamins and herbs are particularly valuable for people who have recurring sinus problems. None of these cause the side effects (such as dry mouth) that decongestants or other conventional medicines prescribed for this condition do.

1.In cases of acute sinusitis, the therapeutic goals are to reestablish drainage and clear up the infection. Various measures can be used: local application of heat, local use of volatile oils and botanicals with antibacterial properties, and immune system support.

2.Since chronic sinusitis is associated with allergy, long-term control can be dependent on isolation and elimination of the food or airborne allergens which may be contributing to the overall allergic load and correction of the underlying problem which allowed the allergy to develop. This may require desensitization procedures. During the acute phase, elimination of the common food allergens (milk, wheat, eggs, citrus, corn, peanuts) is indicated until a more definitive diagnosis can be made.

Recommendations -
Place warm compresses on your face to help open up your sinuses.

Consider using a sinus irrigator, a device found in health-food stores and pharmacies, that uses saltwater to flush out mucus.

Reduce congestion by inhaling eucalyptus-scented steam. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a pan of water. Heat to boiling and remove from the stove. Place a towel over your head and the pan and breathe in the steam through both nostrils. Blow your nose frequently.

Though there have been no major scientific studies conducted to support this theory, some experts believe spicy foods, such as horseradish, Japanese wasabi, garlic, or cayenne pepper, may help clear out congested sinuses.

Euphorbium Nasal Spray - homeopathic remedy. Available in US.

Vitamin C/Flavonoids: 1,000 mg vitamin C and 500 mg flavonoids 3 times a day.

Recent research has shown that there is a natural supplement that can help reduce the incidence of chronic sinusitis. N-acetylcysteine, which is derived from an amino acid, has been shown to help keep mucus fluid, thus helping the sinus drain. It's available at health food storeds and can be given in doses of 200 mg. two times a day for children and 200 mg. three times a day for adults.