Evidence supporting the use of: Sodium Bicarbonate
For the health condition: Sinus Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) has been traditionally used as an ingredient in saline nasal irrigation solutions for the relief of sinus infections and related symptoms. The primary rationale is that adding sodium bicarbonate to saline makes the solution more alkaline and can help to thin mucus, reduce nasal acidity, and improve mucociliary clearance in the nasal passages. This practice is commonly recommended by some healthcare practitioners as a home remedy or adjunct to conventional treatments for sinusitis.

However, while nasal irrigation itself is supported by moderate scientific evidence for improving symptoms of sinusitis, the specific role of sodium bicarbonate (as opposed to saline alone) is less well studied. Few randomized controlled trials isolate sodium bicarbonate as the active agent responsible for benefit. Most studies focus on the benefits of saline irrigation; sodium bicarbonate is included as a buffering agent to reduce irritation and enhance comfort, rather than as a direct antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory agent.

Overall, the use of sodium bicarbonate in sinus rinse solutions is justified primarily by tradition and empirical use, with some theoretical basis for efficacy. The direct scientific evidence supporting its specific benefit in sinus infection is limited, so the evidence rating is moderate (2/5).

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Products containing Sodium Bicarbonate

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