With winter around the corner, and cold and flu season on the way, many people may be wondering about the use of supplements for sinus congestion. In addition to general immune support supplements which can be taken on an ongoing basis to benefit overall wellness, certain nutraceuticals may aid in a more targeted response, such as promoting normal mucus levels and helping to maintain normal sinus and respiratory function during seasonal challenges.*
In this post, we will go over a few key supplements for sinus health:
N-Acetyl-l-Cysteine
In addition to nasal irrigation or saline nasal spray, mucolytics are often recommended for relief of occasional sinus congestion. Mucolytics are natural compounds that help thin the mucus secretions, which are the body’s mechanism of cleansing particulate matter and microorganisms from the upper and lower respiratory tract.* NAC, derived from the amino acid L-Cysteine, is a powerful antioxidant with mucolytic properties, which helps promote normal physiologic levels of mucus in the sinus and respiratory system of healthy individuals.* It also helps maintain the proper functioning of the lungs and supports the immune system and liver function by increasing levels of glutathione in the body.*
Aller-C
For occasional congestion that is related to seasonal indoor or outdoor allergies, certain sinus supplements may help modulate inflammation, stabilize mast cells and reduce histamine levels.* Aller-C, one of our top supplements for sinus health , helps support normal respiratory health.* The combination of Quercetin, Bromelain, Vitamin C and citrus bioflavonoids encourages a balanced histamine response, without the unwanted drowsiness that can occur with over-the-counter antihistamine medications.* Vital Nutrients also offers the nutrients Quercetin and Bromelain individually, which may help support healthy tissue and sinus function.* Quercetin is a potent bioflavonoid which helps stabilize mast cells, while Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple stem, which helps breakdown tissue waste products and promote drainage from an area of inflammation.*
ViraCon
Viracon is a powerful combination of immune enhancing herbal extracts featuring Elderberry, a rich source of antioxidant flavonoids.* Viracon’s unique blend of botanical extracts, Berberine and 7.5mg of Zinc per serving work synergistically to support the body’s natural defenses, by helping to increase cytokine production and other important immune factors.* Zinc may also help shorten the duration of the common cold and associate symptoms. This gentle vegetarian formula also helps promote normal respiratory function and energy, and is a popular choice during times of seasonal challenges.*
Herbal Biotic
Herbal Biotic is a powerful combination of immune enhancing herbs, bioflavonoids and vitamins.* The vitamins and mineral in the formula (Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Zinc) are well-known for their roles in normal immune function.* The herbs, vitamins and bioflavonoids provide high levels of antioxidant activity and help promote the body’s natural defenses.* Botanical extracts Berberine, Garlic and Myrrh, are known for their antimicrobial properties. Garlic is also considered an expectorant, while Myrrh’s resinous gum has astringent properties.* This synergistic formula promotes upper respiratory and sinus health.*
Whether you are seeking immune support supplements to help promote the body’s natural defenses this winter, or want to stabilize histamine response, Vital Nutrients offers several supplements formulated to support respiratory and sinus health, in gentle, non-drowsy options.*
