Take oxymetazoline, usually found in the form of nasal sprays such as Afrin or Dristan 1 hour before takeoff and landing.
Or take pseudoephedrin, found in medications such as Actifed or Sudafed, again 1 hour before takeoff and landing.
Take an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofin 1 to 2 hours before your flight.
You can also buy filtered ear plugs (Ear Planes) that slowly equalize pressure to ease your discomfort.
Drink plenty of water.
Avoid caffiene and alcohol which constricts blood vessels and raise your chances of experiencing pain and/or discomfort.
http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/library/DS/00472.html
Clear Sinus & Ear:
-
Angelica Root Astringent, tonic, diuretic, vulnerary, cholagogue, anti-inflammatory.
Peony Root: lowers blood pressure, anti coagulant
Platycodon Root: used to treat abcesses (anti-inflammatory), as a sedative
Ginger Root Stimulant, carminative, anti-spasmodic, rubefacient, diaphoretic, emmenagogue.
Siler Root: Analgesic, Antispasmodic, Antibacterial, Anti-fungal,
Scutellaria Root: used in treatment of bronchial asthma
Cinnamon Bark: antibacterial, fungistatic, and motility-promotion effects. Antifungal, antiviral, bactericidal, and larvicidal actions have been reported for the volatile oil
Licorice Root Expectorant, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, anti-spasmodic, mild laxative.
Clear Ease: Papain and Bromelain (anti-inflamatory, mucous thinning, digestion aid)
Drink Hot Tea right before ascent or decent
Avoid milk, alcohol, and smoke
-