Nasal congestion affects many aspects of a person’s life. Congestion doesn’t allow you to sleep, taste, smell, or function normally. It can be so uncomfortable that people are willing to try almost anything to obtain relief. There are some great pharmaceutical agents to help with the problem, but many consumers prefer a natural approach. Here, are a few of the popular home remedies for nasal congestion.
Teas and Treatments
Many sufferers prefer to drink a tea to combat the nasal congestion problem internally. There are literally hundreds of tea options, but it is best to start with the more common and proven options.
Tomato tea is a highly favored remedy. Simply mix one cup of tomato juice, 1 teaspoon fresh pressed garlic, ½ teaspoon of hot sauce, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and a pinch of celery salt. Heat to drinking temperature and enjoy. Expect relief to begin within 1 – 3 minutes as the herbs and steam penetrate into the nasal passages.
Apple cider vinegar tea is another popular choice. The ingredients are easy to access and it only takes a few minutes to make. Mix 6 ounces of water with 1 tablespoon of honey and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
Another common home remedy is to mix 2 – 3 drops of oregano oil in a cup of juice and drink once daily. This remedy takes a preventative approach for chronic congestion related to swelling of the nasal tissues, instead of the quick relief of the teas.
Humidifiers
The debate continues to rage over the use of cold mist versus steam humidifiers. The truth is they both work. Cool mist humidifiers produce more humidity, are safe for young children, and do not change the temperature of the room. Steam versions are cheaper, work better where hard water is a factor, and medications can be added to the steam. Both will add moisture to the room and help relieve congestion. It is mainly a personal choice.
Hospitals like to use a mist tent to help nasal and chest congestion. Make one at home by putting a sheet over a table. Put the cool mist humidifier under the table, then the parent and child can get under there too and pretend to be camping out.
Steam Treatments
Hot water and steam are used in a variety of ways to help relieve congestion. An easy way is to soak a washcloth with hot water. Then wring it out and place it over the nose and sinuses. Be careful that water is not too hot so that it burns the skin. Adding 1 -2 drops of eucalyptus oil can help improve the effect.
Another option is to heat 2 cups of water to boiling, and then add 2 – 3 drops of eucalyptus, tea tree oil or Vick’s vapor rub. Pour the water into a bowl, then immediately lean over the bowl and put a towel over the bowl and head. Breathe slowly and deeply through the nose, if possible. Keep eyes closed to avoid irritation. This method is not recommended for young children who could spill water and burn themselves. Lastly try a hot shower or bath it can do the trick with no other ingredients required.
Keep in mind that these methods are used to help with the management of mucous and to some degree swollen nasal glands. If you read my opening article about understanding nasal congestion relief, then you would know I’m a big believer in figuring out what’s wrong with your nasal passages before diving in and trying treatments.