ENT Infections: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

ENT (ear, nose, and throat) infections include common conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, and otitis. Primarily viral in origin, they remain benign in 80% of cases, with spontaneous recovery. During an infection, the immune system first responds through an innate reaction, mobilizing molecules like alpha and beta interferons to limit viral spread. If necessary, an adaptive response takes over, activating specialized cells to overcome the infection.

Common ENT Infections

 Rhinitis: Inflammation of the nasal mucosa, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to congestion and nasal discharge.  Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses, often linked to untreated respiratory infections, manifesting as facial pain, fever, and fatigue.  Pharyngitis: Painful inflammation of the throat, acute (often viral or bacterial) or chronic, often triggered by irritants.  Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, acute (with hoarse cough in children) or chronic.  Otitis: Inflammation of the ear, mainly observed in children, of viral or bacterial origin.

Prevention

For the prevention and natural treatment of ENT infections, various essential oils and trace elements can be used, offering specific actions to strengthen the immune defenses or modify the terrain: Essential oils Thanks to their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant properties, essential oils are valuable in soothing ENT symptoms. Oils rich in 1,8-cineole, such as Eucalyptus globulus, Niaouli, and Ravintsara, thin secretions, decongest airways, and reduce mucosal inflammation. Those rich in thymol or carvacrol (Thyme, Savory, Oregano) offer a bronchodilator and antiseptic effect, especially beneficial in case of sinusitis or infectious rhinitis. Trace elements For rhinitis, sinusitis, and pharyngitis, copper, alone or in combination with manganese, exerts an anti-infectious and anti-inflammatory action. In children prone to recurrent otitis, zinc is recommended to boost immunity and prevent recurrences. Selenium is particularly useful in chronic sinusitis and rhino-pharyngitis for its ability to modulate inflammation. Finally, local applications of copper or colloidal silver solutions can effectively contribute to managing ENT symptoms.