Sinus infection remedies: 9 natural ways to relieve symptoms and speed recovery

Sinuses are empty spaces inside the bones of your face and head. They are near your eyes and nose. When germs like viruses or bacteria get inside your sinuses, your body reacts to the infection. You might start to feel stuffy, get a runny nose or feel pressure in your face.

This condition is called a sinus infection (also known as sinusitis). Most of the time, sinus infections clear up on their own in about a week or two. But while you’re waiting to feel better, there are some easy things you can do to feel more comfortable.¹

What are sinus infections?

Your sinuses have a soft lining. This lining is made up of soft tissue and cells that can make mucus. If that lining gets swollen from a cold or from germs, it can trap the mucus inside the sinus and make you feel uncomfortable.²

Here are some symptoms you might notice²:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Pain or pressure in your face or teeth
• Headache
• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Bad breath

Keep in mind that these symptoms can also happen if you have allergies or a regular cold, not just a sinus infection. A doctor can help you identify and diagnose your condition.

What are some home remedies for sinus infections?

Most people with sinus infections get better without needing antibiotics from a doctor. Usually, it takes your body about 10 days to fight off the infection.²

If your symptoms are uncomfortable during that time, there are some home remedies to help you feel better, like:

Saline nasal rinse

You can use a saltwater rinse or a neti pot to wash out mucus from your nose.³ It’s like giving your nose a gentle bath. If you use a neti pot, follow the instructions carefully so you don’t hurt your nose. And make sure to only rinse with distilled water. Do not use water from the tap.⁴

Warm compress

Put a warm, damp towel on your nose and forehead. The warmth may help ease the pressure in your face.¹

Drink plenty of fluids

Mucus is made mostly of water and a sticky agent called mucin. When you have a sinus infection, your body may produce extra mucus to trap the germs. This can also change the consistency of the mucus and make it harder for your body to get rid of extra mucus.

Drinking water, tea or soup can help thin out mucus so it’s easier for your body to get rid of it.²

MR MK 10/21/25: change tear to tea

Rest

Give your body time to heal. Try to get extra sleep and don’t push yourself too hard.²

Use a humidifier

A humidifier adds water to the air. This helps keep your nose and sinuses from getting too dry.¹

Some people add a few drops of eucalyptus oil into their steam or humidifier to help open up their nose. It’s important to only use a little and not put it directly on your skin or nose. Also, don’t let your pets or kids eat it. Some humidifiers aren’t compatible with essential oils.

Over-the-counter medicine

If you have pain or a fever, you can use medicines you get from the store, like acetaminophen, to help. Always follow the instructions on the package.²

Nasal spray medicines can also help clear up a stuffy nose. It’s important to follow directions for nasal sprays. Using them too much can make a stuffy nose worse.¹

Take care of your sinuses

Stay away from things that can make your nose hurt more, like cigarette smoke or dust. If you need to blow your nose, do it gently. Blow one side at a time.²

Keep your head raised

When you sleep, use an extra pillow to prop your head up. This can help your sinuses drain better.

When to see a doctor

Not all sinus infections go away on their own. You might need to see a doctor if you¹:

• Have a high fever that lasts more than 3 days
• Have symptoms that last more than 10 days
• Have bad pain in your face
• Have symptoms that get better, then suddenly worsen

Takeaway

Sinus infections can make you feel pretty bad. But they usually aren’t serious. There are things you can do at home to feel better while your body heals.

Remember, gentle care like rinsing your nose, breathing in steam and getting plenty of rest can help a lot. If you start to feel worse or your symptoms won’t go away, talk with your doctor.

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sinus infection basics. 2024.
2. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Sinusitis overview. 2025.
3. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Saline sinus rinse recipe. 2024.
4. Food and Drug Administration. Is rinsing your sinuses with neti pots safe? 2025.