Smell Loss from Rinse Additives: Natural Remedies

Have you lost your sense of smell after adding something extra to your sinus rinse? You’re not alone. While a standard isotonic saline rinse is generally gentle, many people add substances like baby shampoo, grapefruit seed extract (GSE), or iodine to fight chronic infections and biofilms.

Unfortunately, these agents can be too harsh for the delicate nasal lining, leading to temporary—or sometimes prolonged—loss of smell (anosmia). This guide explains why it happens, how to recover, and safer options to keep sinuses clear without risking your olfactory nerves.

How Additives Damage Your Sense of Smell

Your sense of smell relies on delicate olfactory nerve endings protected by a thin mucus layer high in the nasal vault. Harsh additives can injure this system by:

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