Consider these natural decongestants

Ken Stanfield — As the temperature lowers, people start coming down with colds. You can have a stuffy nose for so long that you almost can’t remember what it felt like to not have one.  Happily, you may not need to take an over-the-counter drug (and endure the side effects that could go along with it) to breathe easier.

[caption id="attachment_17161" align="alignright" width="300"] Eucalyptus polybractea[/caption]

Here are a few natural, readily available options for clearing up your congestion.

(Please note: you should consult your doctor before using any of these options to treat your cold symptoms.)

Steam

Inhaling steam can help soothe inflamed nasal passages and clear out mucus.  You can purchase a vaporizer to generate mist around your home. However, if you don’t want to spend the money, you can simply boil a pan of water and breathe in the rising steam (just be careful that you don’t scald yourself or leave the water boiling on the stove). Taking a warm shower or running the hot water in your bathroom can help relieve your congestion as well. Drinking hot liquids also helps ease inflammation in your nose and throat.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil has been found an effective treatment for respiratory problems. You can put a couple drops of oil into some hot water and breathe in the steam or you can rub some oil on your nose or chest (as an added bonus, eucalyptus can serve as a moisturizer for dry skin). Another option is to put some eucalyptus leaves into a pan with some chopped lemon, fill with water, and boil. After about twenty minutes, pour the water into a bowl, cover your head with a towel, lean over the bowl and breathe in the steam.

If you decide to use eucalyptus oil, make sure that you do so sparingly. A couple of drops of it shouldn’t harm you, but inhaling large doses or drinking it has proven fatal.

Salt

Saltwater can act as an effective decongestant as well. Add a tablespoon of salt to about eight ounces of warm water. After that, fill your nostrils with the saltwater solution. You can use a neti pot, a dropper, or just your cupped hand to do this.

Peppers and Spices

Eating peppers and spicy foods can help clear up your stuffy nose as well. You can just eat your pepper of choice (jalapeno, habanero, etc.) or add it to your lunch or dinner. If you eat Japanese food, add some extra wasabi.

Clearing up your nasal congestion may not require taking prescription or over-the counter medicines. You may have some useful respiratory aids in your home right now.



About the Author

Ken Stanfield is a writer and researcher who specializes in respiratory health.