Catarrh is the term used to describe the overproduction of thick phlegm by the mucous membranes of the air passages to the lungs, the larynx, the nose, and sinuses. Cells which produce and secrete a watery mucus are present in the mucous membranes, which line the passages, and they are composed of large, thin-walled veins whose blood supply serves to warm incoming air. Inflammation of the membranes as a result of a cold or flu is the usual cause, but other triggers include smoking, inhalation of dust, chronic sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infection, and allergy.
A series of colds in close succession may lead to chronic catarrh. Complementary therapists believe that chronic catarrh that is not obviously due to viral or bacterial infection, allergy, chemical irritants, or dry air (all of which irritate or inflame the mucous membranes) is a symptom of general toxicity of the body—catarrh is the body’s attempt to rid itself of toxins that are not being adequately dealt with by the liver, or properly excreted by the kidneys, bowels, and skin.
Symptoms
• blocked, possibly painful nose, or excessively runny nose
• cough with phlegm
• earache
• ulcers may develop on the septum (the bone that separates the nostrils)
• possibly nosebleeds
TREATMENT
Ayurveda
Coriander can help to relieve sinus problems and prevent the build-up of catarrh. Brown the seeds and boil them in water with root ginger. Boil until the liquid is reduced and drink (with a little honey) as required.
Chinese Herbalism
Drink ginger or sage tea, and drink onion water with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Traditional Home and Folk Remedies
Peppercorns will help to clear catarrh. Chew one at a time, followed by a little hot water, and continue until the symptoms have gone. Eating either raw or cooked onions helps to purge stubborn catarrh. Try a drop of fresh lemon in each nostril—slightly painful, but enormously powerful! Mustard powder can be added to a foot bath to help decongest nasal passages and clear catarrh.
Herbalism
Herbs such as golden rod, elderflower, and eyebright are anti-catarrhal and astringent. When catarrh is accompanied by infection, supplement with echinacea and garlic. Poke root is a good tonic and acts to prevent and reduce catarrh.
Aromatherapy
Thyme and eucalyptus oils may be inhaled to ease symptoms, and it is a good idea to keep niaouli by the bed, as it can help you to sleep. Many oils are decongestant and expectorant, including chamomile, hyssop, mint, niaouli, pine, and clary sage. Rub into the chest and temples in a light carrier oil, or place several drops in a bowl of boiling water and inhale.
Homeopathy
Chronic catarrh should be treated constitutionally, but the following remedies may be helpful: Arsenicum for thick, yellow discharge which makes the nose and the surrounding area sore. Pulsatilla, for yellow or green catarrh that is not painful, accompanied by feelings of weepiness. Nat. mur., for catarrh resembling raw egg white, with a dry nose and the loss of taste and smell. Calcarea, for yellow and smelly catarrh. Sulfur, when there are dry scabs inside the nose, causing bleeding, and when the nose is stuffier indoors than outdoors.
Vitamins and Minerals
Increase your intake of vitamin C and zinc, which help to reduce symptoms. If you are prone to chronic catarrh, cut down on intake of dairy produce, which may exacerbate the condition. It may also be caused by over-consumption of sugar and too many refined carbohydrates. Ensure that your home is free of dust and avoid smoking.
Tuesday, 14 January 2014
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