How to Make a Sinus Mask

If you suffer from sinus pain and congestion, you have probably tried several methods to seek relief from your condition. Instead of taking medications that can make you feel drowsy, try an herbal mask instead. You can make one easily at home, and use it any time to provide relief from your sinus symptoms. This simple sewing (or no-sew) project provides relief using eucalyptus and lavender for an herbal remedy to your sinus problems.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flannel fabric
• Needle and thread
• Sewing machine
• Fabric glue
• Flax seed
• Lentil beans
• Dried eucalyptus leaves
• Dried lavender

Make a Soothing Mask

1. You cut the fabric and sew the edges. Measure your fabric to be 10 inches by 5 inches--you will need two pieces this size. Cut to size and then lay them out on a table with wrong sides up. Fold each fabric edge in by 1/4 inch and then again by 1/4 inch and sew again. This will keep your cut edges from becoming exposed and fraying. You can sew the edges with a sewing machine, needle and thread, or even use fabric glue or no-sew adhesive.

2. Create a pouch. Lay your two fabric pieces together with wrong sides facing. Sew or glue the two long sides and one short side together to create a pocket or pouch.

3. Fill the mask. Fill your mask with lentil beans or flax seed, dried eucalyptus leaves, and dried lavender. Fill to approximately 2/3 full, and then sew or glue the last edges together.

4. Use the mask. You can heat it in the microwave for approximately 15 to 30 seconds before placing on the eye/face area. This will provide you with warm aromatherapy from the mask and soothe your sinuses. If you prefer a cold option, store your mask in a freezer-safe zipper bag for two hours, then remove and apply to your face for cooling relief.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a proficient seamstress, you can craft your mask in an eye or traditional mask shape. You can purchase a craft store mask to use as a pattern.
• Do not heat your mask too much--it should be warm to the touch, but not hot. The heat from your mask can damage your eyes if it is too hot.

References

• Medicinal Uses of Eucalyptus
• Complementary Medicine: Lavender