Nasal Polyps
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Paul
Posted on: February 21, 1999

My nose is virtually closed off with nasal polyps. Do you know of any natural method to effectively shrink them?

Nasal polyps tend to form where there is recurring irritation, usually due to allergies or sinus infections. In general, you want to increase the health of the mucous membranes and decrease the occurrence of infections and allergic reactions.

Garlic contains antibiotic chemicals that fight infection: two fresh cloves a day, or 2 - 3 garlic capsules at night. The antibiotic affect also works well by placing a cut garlic clove directly on the polyp. .

The following may be taken internally as tinctures, following the directions on the bottle: Echinacea strengthens the immune system to prevent and heal infections Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is antiseptic and antibiotic Plantain (Plantago major or Plantago lanceolata) strengthens the mucous membranes.

As a liquid snuff, equal portions of:

* Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) is anti-bacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory

* Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) encourages regeneration of the mucous membrane.(Note: check that the source of Goldenseal is from farms rather than wildcrafted, to protect our precious native supplies. Plantain is effective if the source of goldenseal is not known)

* Bayberry bark (Myrica cerifera) is astringent, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial

will astringe, disinfect and encourage healing of the mucous membranes. 10 drops of the above combined mixture in 30ml water can be "snuffed up" the nose, being very careful that none of the mixture gets in your eyes.

Another effective nasal douche is a pinch each of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and salt in ½ glass warm water.

One of the snuff combinations or the garlic clove should be used twice a day, but must be used for no longer than a week. Longer use of the snuff can dry out the mucous membranes too much, encouraging infection.

Chamomile tea, three cups a day, is anti-inflammatory and helps to relieve allergies.

The diet should include lots of fresh fruit and vegetables to provide the vitamins and enzymes required for healing. Dairy products should be avoided because they cause the formation of excess mucous, and they are a common food allergen.

Vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene speed healing of the mucous membranes and help to prevent infection and allergies.

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