Cough and cold are common allergy reactions especially during the winters and change in season. Cold is often accompanied by nasal congestion that is a result of inflamed mucosal membranes and mucus production. Nasal congestion can cause a lot of discomfort and also give you sleepless nights. Before you go take that nasal spray, try these home remedies to deal with nasal congestion naturally –
TOP NASAL CONGESTION REMEDIES:
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is a great way to get relief from nasal congestion. It helps lubricate the irritated respiratory tract and it also works as a natural expectorant. This helps in clearing the congestion. All you need to do is add few drops of peppermint essential oil in hot water and inhale the steam for about 5 to 10 minutes. Do this twice a day or as required until you start feeling better.
Neti Pot
Using saline solution to perform nasal irrigation is a great way to treat nasal congestion. This is usually done with the help of a neti pot which is designed to flush out the mucus and clear your nasal passage. Fill your neti pot with saline solution and tilt your head back to pour the mixture in one nostril. Allow the solution to drain out of your nose from the opposite nostril and repeat this process on both the sides.
DIY Vapor Rub
Vicks vapour rub is a very popular and easily available decongestant but did you know that you can also make your own DIY vapour rub? To make your own vapour rub, mix together equal quantities of shea butter and coconut oil and add in a teaspoon or so of bees wax. Melt this in the microwave and add in few drops each of eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil and tea tree essential oil. Mix it well and transfer this to an easy-to-use container. Use this as a regular vapour rub. Massage this on your chest on your neck and on your nose before going to bed.
Garlic
Garlic has antibacterial, anti-viral and anti fungal properties that helps fight the respiratory infection that is responsible for nasal congestion. Garlic is also a great remedy to control the overproduction of mucus in the nose. You can have garlic tea to treat nasal congestion sooner. To make this, simply boil 2 to 3 garlic cloves in one cup of water for 5 to 10 minutes and strain the water. Sip on it while it is still warm.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is a natural decongestant and it also has amazing anti bacterial, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. It also works as a natural cough suppressant. You can add few drops of eucalyptus essential oil on your handkerchief and sniff it throughout the day. Also add few drops of eucalyptus oil in boiling water and inhale the steam before bedtime.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea helps clear the mucus and also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It also helps improve your immunity and body’s resistance power. You can have ginger tea twice or thrice a day to gradually clear your nasal passage. Add a tablespoon or so of mashed ginger and one cup of water and let it boil for a few minutes. Turn off the flame and strain the ginger tea. Sip on it while it is still warm.
Turmeric Tea
Turmeric is quite known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti oxidant properties and this is super effective when it comes to nasal congestion. It contains curcumin that helps reduce the inflammation and mucosal swelling. Simply add a teaspoon of turmeric in one cup of hot water and sit on it while it is still warm. Alternatively, you can also add some honey and turmeric to hot milk and have it before bedtime.
Apple Cider Vinegar Water
Apple cider vinegar helps balance internal pH and is also a great remedy for stuffy and blocked nose. It works as a natural decongestant and helps clear the nasal passages. All you need to do is add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a cup of warm or hot water along with 1 tablespoon of raw organic honey. Stir and have this daily in the morning for a few days.
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