In addition to standard therapy forsinusitis, suggest that patients breathein steam from water that containseucalyptus leaves or oil.
In addition to standard therapy forsinusitis, suggest that patients breathein steam from water that containseucalyptus leaves or oil. Eucalyptusleaves can be purchased at a floristshop, and eucalyptus oil is availableover the counter at most pharmacies.Have the patient pour boiling waterinto a bowl, add a few leaves or 1/2 teaspoonof oil, create a tent over thehead with a newspaper or towel, andbreathe in the steam for at least 10 to15 minutes. A "window" can be cut inthe paper to permit TV viewing. Thepatient can repeat this treatment 3 or4 times a day until symptoms disappear.Eucalyptus mist can also beused prophylactically for patients whoare predisposed to recurrent sinusitis.
-Ali Ahmadizadeh, MD
Hoboken, NJ