When the cold happens among us, the body’s immune system is powerful enough to treat the common cold, and a stuffy nose can be very annoying.
Fortunately, there are several natural remedies you can use to treat a stuffy nose.
- Hot compress
The heat immediately clogs the nose. To keep your sinuses open, place a warm compress on your nose and forehead. Simply dip a towel or face towel in warm water and wring it dry.
- Water
Staying hydrated allows your body to shake off the cold faster. Water also thins excess mucus that is blocking the nasal passages. You can also drink herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and rosemary to treat congestion, or you can have a hot bowl of soup.
- Steam
Steam is another quick-acting remedy for nasal congestion. Take a hot shower or prepare for a steam bath, then inhale the steam for immediate relief.
- Saline
The saline solution can thin excess mucus and unclog the nasal passages. To make a saline solution, add a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Stir until the salt is completely dissolved, then use a dropper to pour the solution into your nostrils.
- Garlic
Allicin, the main active compound in garlic, has antibacterial and antiviral properties and can treat common cold symptoms. For quick results, chew on raw garlic cloves for at least five minutes. You can also use onions for a similar effect.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an all-around home remedy that contains potassium, a mineral that thins mucus and clears congestion. Add two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water and drink the solution at least three times a day.
- Lemon
Active plant compounds in lemons loosen dry and sticky mucus and fight cold viruses. Just combine two tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, half a teaspoon of ground black pepper, and salt. Apply the mixture to the nostrils and leave it on for a few minutes.
- Tomato Juice
Tomatoes contain powerful plant compounds called carotenoids that can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. For a quick remedy, pour enough tomato juice into a glass and add a tablespoon of crushed garlic. Drink juice twice a day.
- Basil
As a medicinal plant, basil is often used to treat symptoms of the common cold, including chills and sore throats. To relieve a blocked nose, chew fresh basil leaves at least twice a day.
- Ginger
Like onions and garlic, ginger has active anti-inflammatory compounds that can treat nasal congestion. For instant relief, you can add grated ginger to a cup of herbal tea. If you can tolerate the spiciness of ginger, you can also boil the root and let the water cool before drinking it.
- Mustard Oil
Mustard oil has a mucus-thinning effect and is, therefore, a popular Ayurvedic remedy for sinus conditions. Pour two to three drops of mustard oil into your nostrils to relieve stuffiness. After a few minutes, blow your nose.
- Honey
Antibacterial compounds in honey can remove the excess mucus in the throat, which can lead to nasal congestion. To relieve stuffiness, consume at least two teaspoons of honey followed by a glass of warm water. You can also add honey to herbal tea.
- Fenugreek
Fenugreek is also an herb that can be used to treat colds. Simply mixing fenugreek seeds with warm water will release the seeds’ anti-inflammatory compounds. Fenugreek can also shed mucus along the nasal passages.
- Red pepper
Capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, reduces nasal inflammation and congestion. Mix chopped red pepper, honey, and warm water and drink the solution to relieve stuffiness. Alternatively, you can use ground black pepper.
Don’t let your nose stuff you. Do-it-yourself simple remedies can be effective in getting rid of common cold symptoms, such as a stuffy nose and sore throat.
