Now that the winter season is here, many of us will unfortunately find ourselves stuffed-up and sniffling with a cold. It can be frustrating to have a conversation, only to sound nasally and congested, unable to breathe.
Most of us would do anything to get rid of all the excess build up, and luckily there are a few tricks you can do at home to clear out those nasal passages.
If you’re not one to turn to cold medicine every time you’re sick, or you’re just too under the weather to make it to the drug store, consider using one of these six home remedies that can help get rid of a stuffy nose.
1. Garlic
Garlic not only tastes great in cooking, but it has antiviral and antibacterial properties and can boost your immune system. Raw garlic can also help assist in draining nasal passages with its pungent taste and smell.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Drinking one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with water can help thin mucus and prevent bacteria growth, as it contains potassium and acetic acid, which helps to fight nasal congestion.
3. A Hot Shower
Steam helps loosen mucus and relieve congestion, so hop into a warm shower, or boil a pot of hot water, and slowly breathe in the hot air to help clear out your passages. Inhale the steam for at least five minutes, and then try blowing your nose.
4. Hot Liquids
Staying hydrated is extremely important when you have a stuffy nose, but studies have found that people reported feeling even better after drinking a hot drink over a room-temperature one. Although researchers attribute this mostly to the placebo effect, hot liquids have a more intense taste, which can stimulate the flow of saliva and mucus.
5. A Face Massage
Stimulating acupuncture points on the face can help increase circulation relieve some of the pain associated with a stuffy nose.
Rotate your fingers on the outer edge of your nostrils and work your way up your cheekbones, towards your ears. Repeat for extended relief.
6. A Warm Compress
A warm compress can help open your nasal passages from the outside. Soak a towel in warm water, squeezing out excess liquid, and apply it to your forehead while lying down for about 15 minutes. To take your compress up a notch, add ginger root to your hot water for extra relief.
