Whether it is a sinus infection, allergy, flu, or a common cold, nasal congestion is a symptom that leaves you tired, frustrated, and sleepless.  

When a stuffy nose makes the mere act of breathing a chore, you need instant relief. Here is our list of helpful tips and tricks to follow so you can soothe your congestion.

Try Neti Pots and Saline Solutions

Neti pots have been in use for centuries as an Ayurvedic practice to cleanse sinuses. Getting saltwater in the nasal passage loosens up the mucus and eases congestion. Neti pots are safe to use on a daily basis. But make sure to use pharmaceutical graded salt and not table salt. 

Improve Your Immune System 

Nothing beats congestion like a strong and improved immune system. Treatments involving herbs, vitamin C, and essential oil can help soothe cold and flu-related symptoms, including congestion. Foods like ginger, garlic, lemon, peppers, and fruits like berries help relieve your congestion while building your immunity against respiratory viruses.   

Get Some Steam

For quick relief, take a big bowl of steaming hot water and add a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil. Take a large towel and cover yourself with it. Maintain a distance of an arm and breathe the steam for 10 minutes. Eucalyptus oil contains properties that can reach the chest region and help loosen phlegm. 

Apply Hot or Cold Packs

There is no scientific evidence that hot or cold packs reduce congestion. But you can try it at home to make yourself feel better. Take any frozen vegetables from your freezer, wrap them properly in a clean towel and place it on the bridge of your nose or forehead. For a quick hot pack, you can microwave a wet washcloth. Be careful and make sure it isn’t too hot before placing it on your face. 

Change Your Night Time Routine

Place an extra pillow under your head to keep it elevated as you go to bed. Congestions tend to be worse at night. Make sure your room is humid. You can use a humidifier if required because dry nasal passages worsen congestion.

Consume Herbal Teas

Drinking herbal teas can be a very comforting experience when you’re down with flu and chest congestion. They are not only great sources of hydration, hot fluids also have a calming effect on our mind and body.

Herbal teas like our Decongestant Tea are a rich source of antioxidants and immunity boosters. Every sip of this herbal brew is packed with cardamom, fenugreek, eucalyptus, rosemary, and several other herbs that minimise congestion in the upper respiratory system. A few cups of Decongestant Tea daily can help fight fluid loss and mucus build-up in the sinuses and lungs. 

These are some effective home remedies that can help you deal with congestion. But, if you are experiencing other symptoms like shortness of breath or high fever, contact a doctor immediately.