January 7, 2010

Home Remedies For Stuffy Nose Or Nasal Congestion

Posted in Category : Common Ailments

You know you have a stuffy nose when you have annoying allergy symptoms accompanied by flu and cold. There are however, plenty of ways to treat stuffy nose at home; combine the home remedies with frequent nose blowing. But remember not to sniffle all the time as that draws in the mucous into your lungs and can lead to an infection. You will need to see a doctor if your stuffy nose is accompanied by a painful sinuses, coughing, and high fever.

  • Reduce the stuffiness in your nose by decreasing the consumption of dairy and wheat products, and increasing your consumption of vitamin C, zinc and other nutrients.
  • When you sleep, your head should be in an elevated position. This decreases the build-up of mucus.
  • Make sure that you are well hydrated as this will help you recover faster. Do carry a few tissues or a clean handkerchief for blowing your nose.
  • Hot liquids will bring relief when you have a stuffy nose. You can choose from a variety of soups – chicken broth, vegetable soup, tomato and lentil soup. You can also drink hot herbal teas or tea brewed with spices. Brew a healing beverage with leaves of Holy Basil, peppercorn, ginger and honey.
  • Menthol is believed to be healing too. Rub some under your nose or try a nasal decongestant. Some also recommend a saline spray.
  • Steam is also effective in treating a stuffy nose. Stand below a hot shower for steam. Or make some by boiling water and pouring in into an inhaler. Add eucalyptus oil or capsules in it and crouch over the inhaler with a towel over your head. Inhale deeply.
  • A neti pot is also beneficial when it comes to treating a stuffy nose. Warm water is filled into the pot and gently poured into the nose. This irrigates as well as loosens the mucus.
  • Increase the humidity level in the room by turning on the humidifier. This helps to moisten the sinuses and your nasal passages, and brings relief from discomfort and congestion.
  • You might even like to moisten your eyes with water or saline drops. This is known to reduce the dryness, itching and pain.
  • Cough drops can be helpful too. Many of them have herbal ingredients that bring relief to the throat and nose. Cough drops increase the saliva production, which reduces irritation and keeps the throat moist.
  • You might even like to try cough medicine.