Abstract

Dr. G. Sujatha*

ABSTRACT

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the skull. The inflammation leads to blockade of the normal sinus drainage pathways which in turn leads to mucus retention, hypoxia, decreased mucociliary clearance and predisposition to bacterial growth. It is characterized by headache, Postnasal drip, face and eye pain, pain over the bridge of the nose sometimes tinged with blood and stuffy or runny nose. Treatment for sinusitis includes antibiotics, antihistamines, analgesics, corticosteroids etc. Antibiotics are first line therapy for sinusitis. Antihistamines, analgesics and corticosteroids are used as adjuncts to reduce inflammation, pain and for decongestion, respectively. But about one in four people who take antibiotics have side effects, including stomach problems, dizziness or rashes. Infection and allergy (dust and smoke allergy) may be risk factors in sinusitis patients and need to be managed with simplified but effective treatment regimen. Herbal medicines are now in great demand in the developing world for primary health care not because they are inexpensive but also for better cultural acceptability, better compatibility with the human body and minimal or no side effects. The present review focusses on the various medicinal plants that can be successfully used to combat against sinusitis.