“Loss of smell due to nasal masses might be treated by surgical excision. Loss of smell due to allergies might be treated with saline irrigations and allergy medications. For post-viral anosmia, medications such as cis retinoic acid or alpha lipoic acid have been used with some success,” says Dr.

But once you hear about the health benefits, you’ll realize ginger isn’t only good for your taste buds. You’ve seen anti-nausea pills made with ginger at your local pharmacy, and maybe even tried ginger ale or ginger tea for upset stomachs.

In the meantime, here are some other things you can try:

1. Try cold foods, which may be easier to taste than hot foods.
2. Drink plenty of fluids.
3. Brush your teeth before and after eating.
4. Ask your doctor to recommend products that may help with dry mouth.

Here are five science-backed ways you can try to improve your sense of smell:

1. Smell different things. The more you use your senses, the better they get.
2. Sniff a bit more.
3. Build your scent IQ.
4. Supplement your power to smell.
5. Quit smoking.

One recent study, which tracked the health of 2,428 individuals who claimed to have lost their sense of smell and/or taste as a result of COVID-19, found that 40% of them had completely regained their sense of smell six months later, while only 2% reported no improvement at all.

The most common causes for why you can’t taste food are age-related or from conditions like a cold or stuffy nose. Dr. Timothy Boyle, a Marshfield Clinic otolaryngologist, says the special sense organs in your nose and mouth, are complicated. “Flavor is a combination of taste and smell,” he said.

It’s very rare to lose your sense of taste completely. Causes of impaired taste range from the common cold to more serious medical conditions involving the central nervous system. Impaired taste can also be a sign of normal aging. It is estimated that about 75 percent of people over the age of 80 have impaired taste.

Your taste could be affected if you have: An infection in your nose, throat, or sinuses. A head injury, which might affect the nerves related to taste and smell. A polyp or a growth that blocks your nasal passage.

About 70 percent of sinus infections go away within two weeks without antibiotics. Consider these other forms of treatments instead of antibiotics: Decongestants. These medications are available for over-the-counter purchase.