By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Sinus Headache
Herbal creams for sinus headache are topical creams infused with natural ingredients, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and menthol, which help to ease sinus pressure and congestion.
These creams work by releasing a cooling sensation that reduces inflammation and opens up airways, providing quick relief from sinus headaches.
Examples of herbal creams include menthol-based creams and eucalyptus oil-infused creams, which have helped countless people find relief from sinus headaches, improving their daily lives by reducing discomfort and allowing them to breathe easily.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for sinus headache, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Eucalyptus globulus
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Thymus vulgaris
- 6. Zingiber officinale
- 7. Althaea officinalis
- 8. Ulmus rubra
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Calendula officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for sinus headache?
- What ailments similar to sinus headache are treated with herbal creams?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with sinus headache because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost the immune system.
The cream's active ingredients, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages. This, in turn, alleviates pressure and pain associated with sinus headaches.
Additionally, Echinacea's antimicrobial properties help to combat infections that can lead to sinusitis, providing natural relief from sinus-related discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with sinus headache.
- Icariin: A flavonoid glycoside, icariin helps with sinus headache by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system, which can alleviate sinus pressure and congestion.
- Cichoric acid: A phenolic acid, cichoric acid helps with sinus headache by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus reducing sinus inflammation and alleviating headache symptoms.
- Isobutyl amide: A terpene, isobutyl amide helps with sinus headache by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which can reduce the risk of secondary infections and alleviate sinus pressure and congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Roots: Echinacea roots are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
- Leaves: Echinacea leaves are used because they contain flavonoids and rosmarinic acid, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce sinus congestion and headache pain.
- Flowers: Echinacea flowers are used due to their high content of flavonoids and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties that can help alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for sinus headache.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves from a trusted source by hand in early morning.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 105-115°f for 1-2 hours.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of dried flowers and leaves with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax has fully melted and incorporated.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and allow it to cool and set for 30 minutes.
2. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with sinus headache because of its potent anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
The menthol in peppermint oil helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and providing temporary relief from congestion. Additionally, peppermint's ability to relax the muscles and reduce tension in the face and sinuses helps to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with sinus headaches.
This natural remedy can provide quick and effective relief from sinus headaches.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with sinus headache.
- Limonene: This diterpene helps to ease sinus headache by reducing inflammation and opening airways, making it easier to breathe.
- Menthol: As a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory, menthol helps to relieve sinus headache by numbing the nasal passages and sinuses, providing quick pain relief.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to alleviate sinus headache by reducing inflammation and protecting the nasal passages and sinuses from oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Leaves: They are the primary source of menthol and menthone, which provide the cooling and decongestant properties essential for relieving sinus headache symptoms.
- Stems: Although not as commonly used as leaves, peppermint stems contain some menthol and menthone, which can be extracted and added to creams for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Roots: The roots of peppermint can be used to produce a more subtle, yet still beneficial, menthol and menthone content that can be incorporated into creams for its calming and soothing properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for sinus headache.
- Infuse 200g of fresh m x piperita leaves in 1l of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create a strong herbal extract.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a fragrant herbal liquid.
- Combine 200ml of the herbal liquid with 100g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt the ingredients.
- Stir the mixture continuously for 10-15 minutes until the beeswax and coconut oil have fully incorporated the herbal liquid.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify for at least 30 minutes to form a smooth cream.
3. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with sinus headache because it contains eucalyptol, a natural decongestant that opens up airways and relieves congestion.
The cooling sensation of eucalyptus oil helps to numb the nasal passages and sinuses, reducing inflammation and pain associated with sinus pressure. By promoting drainage and reducing swelling, eucalyptus globulus creams provide quick relief from sinus headaches, helping to breathe easily and feel more comfortable.
This natural remedy is an effective way to soothe sinus discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with sinus headache.
- Cineole: As a potent decongestant and expectorant, cineole helps relieve sinus headache by reducing mucus secretion and congestion in the nasal passages.
- Α-pinene: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate sinus headache by reducing swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses.
- Limonene: A monoterpenic compound with decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties, limonene helps ease sinus headache by reducing nasal congestion and inflammation in the sinuses.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Leaves: Used due to their high eucalyptol content, which provides decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: Used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and provide antimicrobial properties, helping to alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
- Essential oil (from leaves): Used because it contains a high concentration of eucalyptol, which helps to thin mucus and provide quick relief from sinus congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for sinus headache.
- Weigh 200g of pure eucalyptus globulus essential oil for use in the cream formula.
- Combine 200g of distilled water and 100g of glycerin in a mixing bowl slowly.
- Add 50g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter to the mixture then heat it gently.
- Once the mixture has cooled slightly add 200g of eucalyptus globulus essential oil to it carefully.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly and pour it into a clean container for storage.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with sinus headache because of its natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The essential oils present in these creams, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have a calming effect on the nasal passages and sinuses, reducing swelling and promoting the clearance of mucus. This can help alleviate sinus pressure, congestion, and pain, providing relief from sinus headaches.
The soothing aroma of English lavender also promotes relaxation and reduces stress, further contributing to its headache-relieving properties.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with sinus headache.
- Linalool: A terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia, linalool helps to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, which can contribute to sinus headaches by alleviating tension and pressure in the face and head.
- Linalyl acetate: Another terpene present in the herb, linalyl acetate has a calming effect, which can help to alleviate stress and anxiety that often exacerbate sinus headaches.
- Lavandulol: A terpene with antimicrobial properties, lavandulol can help to reduce the presence of bacteria and other pathogens that can contribute to sinus infections and subsequent sinus headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Flowers: The most commonly used part in sinus headache creams due to their calming and decongestant properties.
- Leaves: Used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relieve pain and reduce swelling in the sinuses.
- Seeds: Not typically used in sinus headache creams, but some research suggests their potential in reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
- Buds: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infection and reduce swelling in the sinuses.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for sinus headache.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak potency to ensure maximum medicinal properties.
- Steep the dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the infused oil.
- Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of shea butter to create the cream base.
- Whip the mixture with a hand mixer until light and fluffy to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with sinus headache because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have natural decongestant and expectorant effects, which help to clear nasal passages and sinuses of excess mucus and bacteria. This can provide quick relief from sinus pressure and headache symptoms, making thyme creams a popular natural remedy for sinus headaches.
It also helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the nasal passages.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with sinus headache.
- Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic compound that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that contribute to sinus infections and headaches.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a monoterpenic phenol that has potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help alleviate sinus congestion, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria that cause sinus infections.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound that has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the sinuses, alleviate sinus headache symptoms, and promote overall respiratory health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Leaves: Thyme leaves contain thymol, a natural decongestant that helps relieve sinus pressure and congestion.
- Flowers: Thyme flowers have antibacterial properties, which can help combat infections and inflammation associated with sinus headaches.
- Stems: Thyme stems contain a compound called borneol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and ease sinus pressure.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for sinus headache.
- Infuse 50 grams of thymus vulgaris leaves in 250 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter with 50 milliliters of the infused oil.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Allow the cream to cool and thicken at room temperature for 30 minutes before transferring to a container.
6. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with sinus headache because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compound in ginger, gingerol, has been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain in the nasal passages and sinuses. By applying ginger cream topically, it can help to relax the muscles in the face and head, relieving sinus pressure and congestion.
This natural remedy can provide quick relief from sinus headaches, making it a popular choice for those seeking an alternative to medication.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with sinus headache.
- Shogaols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with sinus headaches.
- Gingerols: Gingerols have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate sinus congestion and reduce the severity of sinus headaches.
- Terpenes: As an expectorant, beta-pinene helps thin mucus and relieve congestion, making it easier to breathe and reducing sinus pressure and headache symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Rhyzomes: Extracted for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
- Roots: Used for their warming and analgesic properties, which provide relief from sinus pain and congestion.
- Leaves: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing and calming the sinuses.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for sinus headache.
- Harvest 250 grams of fresh zingiber officinale roots and wash them under cold running water for 5 minutes.
- Grate the washed roots using a food processor or a manual grater for 5 minutes.
- Combine the grated roots with 500 milliliters of distilled water in a saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil for 20 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl and discard the solids after 10 minutes.
- Mix 100 milliliters of beeswax and 100 milliliters of coconut oil with the strained liquid in a double boiler for 15 minutes.
7. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with sinus headache because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The root of this herb contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the nasal mucosa, reducing congestion and inflammation. This helps to ease sinus pressure and promote drainage, providing relief from sinus headaches. Additionally, the cream's calming effects can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are often triggers for sinus headaches.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for sinus headache sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with sinus headache.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the sinuses, reducing inflammation and congestion associated with sinus headaches.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as gallic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce swelling and pain in the sinuses, providing relief from sinus headaches.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic effects that help to reduce nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and pain associated with sinus headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Roots: Roots are rich in mucilages, which helps to soothe and calm the sinus area, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
- Leaves: Leaves of Althaea officinalis contain flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
- Barks: Barks of Althaea officinalis contain mucilages and tannins, which can help to reduce inflammation, calm the sinus area, and promote relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for sinus headache.
- Harvest 30g of fresh althaea officinalis roots in early morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and then boil them in 1 liter of water for 30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain 750ml of decoction.
- Mix 200g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat until melted.
- Combine the decoction with 10g of vitamin e oil and the melted wax mixture and stir until smooth.
8. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with sinus headache because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's mucilaginous compounds work to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the nasal passages and sinuses, reducing inflammation and congestion. This leads to relief from sinus pressure, pain, and discomfort associated with sinus headaches.
By providing a protective barrier and promoting healing, Ulmus rubra creams can help alleviate sinus headache symptoms, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra creams that help with sinus headache.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid helps alleviate sinus headache by reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms associated with allergies and sinusitis.
- Salicin: A glycoside similar to aspirin, salicin helps relieve sinus headache by its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pain and discomfort in the face and head.
- Catechin: A polyphenolic compound, catechin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help alleviate sinus headache by reducing swelling and fighting off free radicals that contribute to sinusitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Barks: Ulmus rubra barks are used in creams for sinus headache due to their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
- Leaves: Ulmus rubra leaves are used in creams for sinus headache due to their decongestant and antiseptic properties.
- Roots: Ulmus rubra roots are used in creams for sinus headache due to their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for sinus headache.
- Harvest 100g of dried ulmus rubra bark at the peak of the plant's senescence process.
- Combine 30g of the harvested ulmus rubra bark with 300ml of 95% ethanol in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture at room temperature for 14 days in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the solids.
- Mix 50g of the strained liquid with 50g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with sinus headache because it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe and calm nasal passages and sinuses.
The key compound, glycyrrhizin, has natural decongestant properties that reduce swelling and congestion, while also providing antimicrobial effects that combat infections. Additionally, licorice root cream may help to thin mucus and promote drainage, providing relief from sinus pressure and pain.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for sinus headache relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with sinus headache.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate sinus pressure associated with headaches.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, quercetin and kaempferol present in Glycyrrhiza glabra exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help ease sinus congestion and headache symptoms.
- Licoricidin: This compound is known for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate sinus pressure, providing relief from headaches.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used due to their antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and ease sinus headache pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used due to their flavonoid content, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat sinus infection and alleviate headache symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for sinus headache.
- Extract 500 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin.
- Filter the extracted liquid and discard the solids then combine it with distilled water.
- Mix 100 grams of vegetable oil such as coconut oil with 50 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Add 50 grams of the filtered glycyrrhiza glabra liquid to the oil and wax mixture then stir.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to clean jars for storage.
10. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with sinus headache because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in Calendula, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages and sinuses, providing relief from sinus pressure and pain. Additionally, Calendula's antiseptic properties may help combat underlying infections that can exacerbate sinus headaches, promoting a sense of comfort and relaxation.
This natural remedy can be a gentle yet effective solution for sinus headache sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with sinus headache.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds, particularly calendulol and isocalendulol, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and alleviate sinus headache pain.
- Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids present in Calendula officinalis, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help combat underlying infections and reduce sinus pressure.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin in Calendula officinalis possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe the nasal passages, reduce inflammation, and alleviate sinus headache symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for sinus headache.
- Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe and calm sinus headaches.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties to help reduce swelling and ease sinus pressure.
- Flowers: (also used for this property) Used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the sinuses.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for sinus headache.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of calendula officinalis flowers at peak blooming time when they are completely dry.
- Infuse 2 cups of distilled water with the dried flowers in a saucepan for 30 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid and combine it with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally until the beeswax is fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and allow it to cool and solidify for 2 hours.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for sinus headache?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with sinus headache is a blend of Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Tea Tree oil creams.
Eucalyptus cream helps to relieve congestion and open airways, while Peppermint cream reduces inflammation and cools the sinuses. Tea Tree oil cream has antimicrobial properties that combat infections and promote healing. When used together, these creams can provide rapid and effective relief from sinus headache symptoms, reducing pressure and discomfort, and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Regular application can also help to prevent future sinus headaches.
What ailments similar to sinus headache are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to sinus headache that are treated with herbal creams are migraines, tension headaches, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
These creams typically contain a blend of herbs such as feverfew, ginger, and arnica, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
They can help reduce pain and inflammation in the head and jaw, providing relief from symptoms similar to those experienced with sinus headaches.