Despite its difficult name and the fact that it is not exactly a “rare gem”, the pigweed plant is considered a valuable remedy for treating sinusitis. This plant has anti-inflammatory, anti-edema, and anti-allergic effects in both acute and chronic phases.
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Pigweed – Ageratum conyzoides (Photo: divingcat) |
In Vietnam, sinusitis affects 15-20% of the population. The disease often arises due to climate, environment, humidity, living conditions, and individual sensitivity, and it tends to recur frequently. Treatment typically lasts from 3 to 6 months, and some individuals may require continuous treatment for several years with expensive Western medications. Each treatment course can cost millions of dong, making it unaffordable for many patients.
For a long time, traditional remedies have circulated about the ability of the pigweed flower (also known as five-colored flower, five-flavor flower, or aromatic herb; scientific name: Ageratum conyzoides) to treat sinusitis.
Pigweed is a small plant, with a hairy stem, growing to about 25-50 cm in height, commonly found in rural areas. The flowers are small and can be purple or blue. This plant grows easily in all types of soil, and in some places, it covers entire fields. The entire plant is harvested, roots removed, and used fresh or dried. Pigweed has a high essential oil content. Animal experiments have shown it has anti-inflammatory, anti-edema, and anti-allergic effects in both acute and chronic conditions.
Usage: Select fresh pigweed, wash it clean, then let it dry. Crush it to extract the juice, which is then soaked into a cotton ball. Insert this cotton ball into the painful nostril for about 15-20 minutes. Remove the cotton ball to allow mucus from the sinus and nose to drain out, then gently blow your nose. Avoid blowing your nose forcefully, as this may cause mucus from the sinuses to travel through the Eustachian tube to the middle ear, leading to acute otitis media.
Currently, there are some medications derived from pigweed, formulated as nasal drops, which are very convenient for users. However, patients should consult with an ear, nose, and throat specialist for an accurate diagnosis (to rule out any nasal tumors) and guidance on monitoring when self-administering the medication at home.
ThS. Pham Bich Dao
