Struggling with Sinus Pressure? Try These Jewish Home Remedies

Sinus pain can be incredibly uncomfortable. The sinuses are small air-filled spaces in the skull located around the forehead, alongside the nose, and in the cheeks. One of their main roles is to balance the weight of the skull. When mucus that’s meant to leave the body gets trapped, these spaces become blocked and inflamed. That’s when sinusitis sets in, causing pressure, congestion, and sharp pain, especially around the nose and eyes.

Jewish tradition values caring for the body with wisdom and balance. Rambam (Maimonides), one of our greatest Torah sages and doctors, often encouraged natural remedies based on diet, breath, movement, and simple herbs. And of course, our grandmothers added their own kitchen-based know-how.

If your sinuses are giving you trouble, here are some gentle remedies passed down through generations that might help bring you relief:

Let Go of Mucus-Forming Foods

Grandma’s first tip: avoid foods that increase mucus in the body. Dairy products, especially milk, cheese, and ice cream, are known to make sinus problems worse. Try cutting them out for a few days and see if you feel a difference.

Warm Compresses and Facial Massage

Apply a warm, damp compress to your sinus areas such as on the forehead, cheeks, and around the nose. Once the area is warm, gently massage it to encourage the mucus to move. Try massaging upward and outward along your brows, around the cheekbones, near the eyes, and under the nose. It’s simple, soothing, and surprisingly effective.

Breathing Exercises to Open the Passages

Our sages understood the power of breath not just for the body, but for the soul. One helpful exercise for the sinuses is to "exhale with pressure", take a deep breath, close your mouth, and then exhale forcefully through your nose. This creates gentle internal pressure that can help clear blocked passages.

Move Your Body, Move the Blockage

Aerobic activity like brisk walking or even dancing stimulates blood flow throughout the body, including to the head. This helps open up clogged sinuses. If you’re able, a headstand or downward-facing position can send extra blood to the head and may ease sinus pressure. Be cautious and only try this if it’s safe for your body.

Grandma’s Kitchen Remedies: Carrots, Horseradish, and Mint

Carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals that support healing and reduce inflammation. Eat them raw, cooked, or juice them for a refreshing, healing drink.

Horseradish is known for its strong clearing effect. Rich in vitamin C and potassium, it helps break up mucus. Horseradish juice can be especially helpful but be prepared for a strong flavor and a powerful clearing sensation!

Mint tea is a gentle favorite. Its aroma and properties help soothe irritated sinuses, loosen mucus, and offer comfort during a flare-up.

Jewish tradition teaches us to care for our bodies with love and attention because our bodies are vessels for the neshamah (soul). By listening to what our body needs and using the natural tools Hashem placed in the world, we participate in the process of healing with both body and spirit.

To your health—refuah shleimah (a full and gentle healing)!

Note: These remedies are meant for support and comfort. They do not replace professional medical advice. If symptoms continue or worsen, consult a qualified healthcare provider.