How to treat Sinusitis with Acupuncture
Tired of battling sinus pressure and pain?
Discover how Chinese Medicine—through Herbal Remedies, Acupuncture, and lifestyle changes—can bring effective, lasting relief from sinusitis and help you breathe freely this spring.
You can also see how we work with Gut Health which also influences inflammation
How your Sinuses work
The paranasal sinuses are air-filled hollows in the facial bones, helping us breathe deeply through the nose when healthy.
The primary sinuses are the frontal, located in the forehead, and the maxillary, under each cheekbone.
Mucus production—part of the body’s immune response—can quickly become painful if mucus isn’t drained efficiently,
allowing viruses, bacteria, and fungi to grow in inflamed sinuses.
Many are familiar with sinus headaches and other symptoms that, without proper treatment, may become chronic,
typically defined as lasting 10 weeks or more.
Common signs and symptoms of Sinusitis
• Aching pressure headache
• Blocked and stuffy nose
• Thick yellow nasal discharge, or thin clear discharge in minor cases
• Referred pain – commonly tooth and jaw pain
• Puffy face and under-eye bags, sometimes bruising
• Post-nasal drip
• Bad breath and/or foul taste in the mouth
• Fever
• Irritability
• Tiredness
• Stomach upsets/constipation
How to find relief with Acupuncture
Acupuncture works to quickly relieve blocked sinuses by targeting local points for symptom relief and distal points to open sinus channels and
support immunity, reducing the chances of recurrence.
At-home tip! - Try gentle pressure point massage at the nostrils, around the eyes, and along the cheekbones, being careful not to press too hard.
Herbal remedies like magnolia flower, angelica root, xanthium fruit, and peppermint can also help;
a trained herbalist can tailor these to address both immediate symptoms and the underlying causes.
Dietary considerations + home remedies
Focus on a diet that avoids mucus-triggering foods like
Dairy
Sugar
Processed Carbs
Caffeine
Spicy/Greasy/Cold & Raw foods
Staying hydrated is essential to ease sinus pressure and prevent mucus buildup.
At-home tips! - As spring brings allergens and the cold season, dress for the weather, eat plenty of vegetables, limit sugar and processed foods, exercise, and prioritize sleep.
If you suffer from sinus issues, limit alcohol, avoid smoking, and consult your healthcare provider for proper treatment—chronic sinus problems don’t have to persist.
If your system is prone to overactive phlegm production, sinusitis may become an ongoing problem.
It’s possible to improve your immune response and relieve the symptoms of sinusitis so that it is less likely to recur.
See more on how we work Gut Health and Pain
Also see more helpful blogs and tips.
Take charge of your sinus health this spring and breathe easier! We’re here to support you.