The cold that lingers may not be just a cold. You may have a sinus infection. Using decongestant nasal sprays too much, smoking, and swimming or diving can also increase your risk of getting sinusitis. Sinus infections can be either acute or chronic. An acute sinus infection follows on the heels of a cold or a bout of hay fever. Chronic sinus infections persist for three months or longer.

There are no foolproof cures, but fortunately, there are simple herbal home remedies and alternative treatments that can help keep the infection at bay.

Using Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy steam therapy is therapeutic for sinus headaches, and sinus infections. Essential oils offer analgesic, anti-bacterial properties to combat infection, and anti-inflammatory properties that help to open clogged airways. These oils have a relaxing, uplifting aroma that invigorates your flagging spirit. Some good oils to use in a steam inhalation would be anise, eucalyptus, peppermint and juniper berry oil. Only a few drops are needed.