Evidence supporting the use of: Pine
For the health condition: Sinus Infection
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Pine, particularly in the form of pine needle oil or pine resin preparations, has a long history of traditional use for respiratory ailments, including sinus infections. In folk medicine practices across Europe and Asia, pine preparations have been used as inhalants or topical applications to help relieve symptoms of congestion, cough, and sinus discomfort. The aromatic compounds in pine, such as alpha-pinene, are thought to have mild expectorant and antimicrobial properties, which may help ease breathing and reduce the sensation of blocked sinuses.
However, scientific validation for pine’s efficacy specifically in treating sinus infections is limited. Some laboratory studies suggest that pine essential oil has antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria and fungi, but these studies are preliminary and do not directly address sinusitis in humans. The traditional use is mostly based on the symptomatic relief provided by inhaling pine vapors, which may temporarily open airways and reduce feelings of congestion, but this should not be confused with curing a sinus infection.
Overall, while pine has a well-documented role in traditional medicine for respiratory support, robust clinical evidence supporting its use for sinus infections is lacking, and its use should be considered complementary rather than primary treatment.
Other ingredients used for Sinus Infection
alpha-pinenebenegut perilla (proprietary)
black pepper
bromelain
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
fennel
goldenseal
immunoglobin G
honeysuckle
lactobacillus gasseri
marshmallow
mint
peppermint oil
platycodon root
quercetin
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
wasabia japonica
zinc
mullein
hyssop
cardamom
malabar nut
inula racemosa
anise
pau d'arco
elecampane
sweetgums
Sichuan pepper
sea salt
Anamarrhena
Alpha-terpineol
Asarum heterotropoides
Asafoetida
Andrographis
allyl isothiocyanate
Barleria
black salt
Buddha's Hand
Cineole
Cinidium
Cistus
cypress
Ephedra
Elder
Goldthread
Other health conditions supported by Pine
ArthritisAsthma
Bronchitis
Burns and Scalds
Colds (general)
Congestion (sinus)
Cuts
Dandruff
Diarrhea
Fever
Fungal Infections
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Itching
Lungs (fluid in)
Rashes and Hives
Sinus Infection
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Sore Throat
Sprains
Staph Infections
Urinary Tract Infections