Blocked sinus can be a frustrating and irritating condition. It may cause difficulty in eating or sleeping. Blocked sinus can lead to a sinus headache and even equilibrium problems when the blockage reaches the ear. While some prescription medications may provide some relief, natural home remedies can be effective in clearing a blocked sinus. The latter do not have any ill side effects, are non-habit forming and can be used as often as needed.

Here are 4 natural ways to clear a blocked sinus from the comfort of your home.

1. Increase humidity

Most sinus blockages and infections occur in the winter months. This is the time of year when heating is on and the doors and windows are closed, making the inside air very dry.

The easiest fix to this problem is to increase humidity in the air. You can use a whole-house humidifier that attaches to your furnace. If that is not an option you can use small room-sized humidifiers throughout the house. These are inexpensive and can greatly improve humidity levels. Be sure to keep the water filled and clean the containers often to avoid bacteria and mold build up.

Alternatively, boil a large pot of water on the stove. The vapor from the boiling water adds humidity to the air. Another quick fix is to sit in the bathroom with the hot shower running for 20 minutes or so.

2. Nasal irrigation

This is a method of running sterile water into the nose. You can buy a small irrigation pot from a health food store and follow the package directions. If you need something a little more portable try using a saline nasal spray. Nasal irrigation works by cleaning the nasal passages and sinus cavities of mucus and thereby, assisting the natural cleaning system of your nasal passages.

3. Warm compress

A wet towel or washcloth can be heated and placed on the face, over the nose and sinuses. This will help clear the sinus cavities by loosening the mucus so that it will drain out more easily. You can purchase warm compress that can be heated in the microwave, from health food stores or pharmacies.

4. Eucalyptus or menthol

Eucalyptus or menthol oil can be used in a steam inhalation to relieve nasal and sinus congestion, in draining mucus and relieving pressure. Menthol is derived from peppermint. It is a natural anesthetic, germicidal and the vapors are an incredible decongestant. Eucalyptus oil is a powerful antiseptic with antibacterial properties. To create an eucalyptus steam inhalation, pour some boiling water into a bowl and add 3 drops of eucalyptus oil. Look down, with your head over the bowl. Cover your head and bowl with a towel. Close your eyes and inhale the steam slowly for 10 minutes.

You can also put a few drops of eucalyptus on a handkerchief and sniff periodically.

Each of these natural remedies can be used alone or in combination with each other to relieve your blocked sinus. They do not cause complications or harmful effects even if used in conjunction with drug medications.