How to Reduce Mucus and Phlegm from the Throat and Chest
People with nasal and throat blockages have phlegm deposits in the lungs which cause breathing problems and increased coughing. Although it’s not a fatal issue, it can interfere with our everyday life.
Also, if we do not treat this problem, it may cause even more health problems.
Phlegm in the Lungs
For those who do not know, phlegm is a sticky substance secreted by the mucus of the ventilator system. This substance is sticky because of its protective role to catch dust, viruses, and allergies. Among its main roles is preventing infections such as colds.
When one feels the urge to cough it means they have excess mucus in the throat and the chest, which can be a result of bacteria, viruses, flu, and so on.
The rest of the symptoms are fever, weakness, difficulty breathing, and runny nose. The phlegm blocks the bronchial tubes if it is not removed properly.
How to Reduce Mucus in a Natural Way
Even though there are meds that can be helpful, to avoid side effects, there are natural ways as well. Below we offer you 4 methods you may find useful.
1. Ginger Tea
Ginger is a healthy remedy that is an antibacterial, antiviral, and antihistamine, as well as a natural decongestant. (1) So, it can ease throat and chest congestion by removing excess phlegm. The best way to use ginger is in tea. If you want to prepare this tea, you need:
- Two cups of water,
- One teaspoon of honey,
- One teaspoon of peppercorn,
- Six pieces of ginger.
How to prepare it?
Boil the water, then add the peppercorn and the ginger. Wait for the mixture to boil. When it starts boiling, you should cover it and let it stay for 1 minute.
After a minute set the heat to medium and let the tea simmer for five more minutes. Finally, when you remove it from the heat, you should add honey. You can consume two cups a day.
2. Honey and Lemon
Both lemon and honey have antibacterial and antifungal properties. The lemon has a lot of vitamin C so it will prevent congestion, and improves immunity. Also, lemon’s acidity breaks down mucus. (2) To make this mixture, you need:
- Two tablespoons of lemon juice
- One tablespoon of honey
How to prepare it?
Make a mixture of both ingredients till you get a homogeneous blend. Take this mixture three times per day.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is healthy and helpful because the curcumin which is contained in it has antiseptic as well as antibacterial properties that remove the bacteria that cause mucus. Likewise, it makes your immune system stronger.
To make this mixture, you need to take a glass of warm water, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder, and half a spoon of salt in it. Use this mixture to gargle three or four times a day.
4. Inhalation
Steam inhalation is great because you can do it at home. To make this inhalation you need:
- Four cups of boiling water,
- A large towel,
- One teaspoon of dried rosemary,
- Half a teaspoon of thyme.
How to prepare it?
To make this steam inhalation, put the herbs in boiling water. Then, bend over the steam, cover your head with the towel, and do not let the steam get away. Inhale the steam for about five to ten minutes. Do this several times per day.
Other Helpful Tips
- Make sure to have enough humidity in your home.
- Blow your nose often.
- Stay away from cold beverages, and drink warm.
- Stay away from irritants.
- Put warm compresses on your chest.
Remember, although these treatments are good for some people, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they will be beneficial for you as well.
These recipes are traditional Grandmother’s-Remedy that have been used for hundreds of years. Although there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, our Grandmothers swear by them.
Source: Simple Organic Medicine
