Home Remedy for Congestion | Nasal Congestion | Symptoms of Congestion

By | June 25, 2010

Home Remedy for Congestion

Nasal congestions are caused by the swelling of the nasal membranes which results in excess production of the mucous membranes. Nasal congestion and even chest congestion is also a common symptom associated with the flu, common colds  or an allergy and people are known to suffer from such congestions often. The key to a home remedy for congestion revolves around the environment in which the affected individual lives. Air conditioners are helpful in keeping out allergens and any other airborne irritants and hence are recommended during nasal congestion along with humidifiers. The most common home remedy for congestion is steam inhalation which is achieved by placing ones head over a container filled with hot water which may even have some eucalyptus oil or herbs added to it. Similarly people suffering from congestion are also advised to have pungent or spicy food as it helps in clearing out the nasal passages. The person suffering from nasal congestion should avoid consuming food that is high in calories, salt or sugar. Another home remedy for nasal congestion is having garlic and tomato soup two to three times a day and even adding some black pepper to the soup to make it spicy thereby helpful in clearing nasal congestion. On the other hand people suffering from chest congestion should drink lots of fluids in the form of fresh drinking water and juices of fruits that are rich in Vitamin C. Drinking warm chamomile or peppermint tea is also helpful in providing relief from chest congestion and the related tightness in the chest. In some cases chest congestion may arise on account of a problem with the heart and this can be diagnosed by symptoms such as swollen ankles, difficulty in breathing at night and even palpitations. In such cases, it is imperative to seek medical help from a qualified doctor at the earliest.

Another home remedy for nasal congestion that can be prepared and administered at home itself is using carom seeds. Carom seeds need to be ground into a fine powder and should be placed near the pillow of the infected person so that the fumes may be inhaled by them even while they are sleeping thereby providing relief from nasal congestion and allowing them to breathe better. In some cases people suffering from nasal congestion especially children are advised to inhale the smoke that is emanated by roasting 5-6 cardamom seeds on a hot coal.