Congestion is a common respiratory health complaint that affects people of all ages, but can be annoying and even uncomfortable. This condition is caused by the accumulation of excessive secretions in the nose or throat. Although over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from the uncomfortable symptoms of congestion, there are also some natural remedies that can help reduce your discomfort without the use of medication.
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Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, making it an effective natural remedy for congestion. Mix one or two tablespoons in a glass of warm water and drink it twice a day. You can also add a teaspoon of honey or fresh lemon juice to the solution to improve its taste.
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Grapeseed Oil – It contains anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce swelling and mucous production. Heat a small amount of grapeseed oil until it is warm and massage it over your chest and neck area. Repeat several times a day to relieve congestion.
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Hot compress – Apply a hot compress on the chest, neck and forehead to reduce congestion. Heat a towel with warm water and place it on the affected areas of your body for about 10 minutes. Apply the compress three or four times a day for best results.
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Steam – Steam can help loosen mucus that is stuck in the nose and chest, helping to reduce congestion. Boil a pot of water, turn off the heat, and turn your head over the pot. Carefully cover the pot’s lid to form a tent and keep the steam from escaping. Inhale the steam for several minutes and repeat this remedy several times a day.
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Garlic – Garlic is known for its powerful antibiotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains a compound called allicin, which can help break down mucus buildup and reduce congestion. Eat a few raw garlic cloves daily to reap the benefits.
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Saltwater gargle – Salt is a natural anti-inflammatory and may help reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, including the sinuses. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle the solution. Repeat several times a day to reduce congestion.
Congestion is a common respiratory health complaint that affects people of all ages, but can be annoying and even uncomfortable. This condition is caused by the accumulation of excessive secretions in the nose or throat. Although over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief from the uncomfortable symptoms of congestion, there are also some natural remedies that can help reduce your discomfort without the use of medication.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, making it an effective natural remedy for congestion. Mix one or two tablespoons in a glass of warm water and drink it twice a day. You can also add a teaspoon of honey or fresh lemon juice to the solution to improve its taste.
Grapeseed Oil – It contains anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce swelling and mucous production. Heat a small amount of grapeseed oil until it is warm and massage it over your chest and neck area. Repeat several times a day to relieve congestion.
Hot compress – Apply a hot compress on the chest, neck and forehead to reduce congestion. Heat a towel with warm water and place it on the affected areas of your body for about 10 minutes. Apply the compress three or four times a day for best results.
Steam – Steam can help loosen mucus that is stuck in the nose and chest, helping to reduce congestion. Boil a pot of water, turn off the heat, and turn your head over the pot. Carefully cover the pot’s lid to form a tent and keep the steam from escaping. Inhale the steam for several minutes and repeat this remedy several times a day.
Garlic – Garlic is known for its powerful antibiotic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains a compound called allicin, which can help break down mucus buildup and reduce congestion. Eat a few raw garlic cloves daily to reap the benefits.
Saltwater gargle – Salt is a natural anti-inflammatory and may help reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, including the sinuses. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle the solution. Repeat several times a day to reduce congestion.