Nasal Congestion Remedies
Nasal congestion is a very irritating problem that is caused due to a variety of reasons ranging from allergy, flu or cold, air and other pollutants in the atmosphere. The main reason why the nasal cavity gets blocked is because of blood vessels in the nose getting enlarged because of infection. Furthermore the mucous cells also get inflamed resulting in difficulty in breathing. So it is quite natural for people suffering from this problem to see them breathe through the mouth. This results in other problems and quite often leads to secondary complications like headache, high fever and ear infections etc.
The main reason for nasal congestion is pollution and staying in an air conditioned environment which has abundant supply of pure air is one the best nasal congestion remedies that has been seen. Use of vaporizers in combination with hot water is also supposed to be very effective in reducing congestion of the nose. There are also vaporizers that can be used in cold water and this specially recommended for children who cannot bear the hot steam on their face and body. In case you do not have vaporizer adding a touch of vinegar is also considered by many to be one of the most effective nasal congestion remedies.
There are also other natural nasal congestion remedies available for congested nose and these include eating spicy and pungent food rich in black pepper that is very common in Mexican, Chinese and Indian Dishes. However, the problem with this particular remedy is that it is not liked by many people especially those who are not used to such spicy and rich foods.
Traditionally the treatment that has been followed for a long period of time is by using corticosteroids which act on the inflamed blood cells and mucous cells. Though very effective the problem with such nasal congestion remedies that are steroid based is that it has a number of side effects if they continue to be used for a long period of time. Hence, it is always better to opt for these natural nasal congestion remedies that are more tolerant and less dangerous in terms of side effects.
However, one p
oint which should be carefully considered is the fact that all the above nasal congestion remedies are at best temporary in nature. If the congestion does not get cured within a reasonable period of time, then it would not be wise to ignore the situation. It would be better to go and visit a good physician if the symptoms persist with other problems like fever, chills, recurring cough, etc.
Other nasal congestion remedies involve consumption of spicy or pungent food such as chicken soup laced with heavy doses of black pepper and ethnic foods known for spiciness, spicy Mexican, Chinese or Indian dishes containing hot peppers can be consumed as remedial measure. Consumption of century-old recipe for basil tea is another add-on to the list. Some of the vegetables liker tomato tea deliciousness, peeled garlic cut and then placed into the nostril and then to inhale the smell for 10/15 minutes resulting in opening of nose are very effective.
These nasal congestion remedies can be used for children by placing a teaspoon of cardamom seeds on hot coal and then inhaled. The smoke of this reduces the nasal congestion.
By alternate thrusting the tongue against the roof of the mouth, pressing between the eyebrows with one finger. This causes the bone that runs through the nasal passages to the mouth to rock back and forth. This should be exercised for 15 to 20 minutes. While sleeping as well one can take an extra pillow under the head to allow the person to breathe with comfort. This will result in relieving the congested nasal passages free. This problem can also be dealt with by the process of boiling water with salt. Water with salt is to be boiled and then to be poured in a sterilized container. One has to wait until it becomes warm. Then after taking that solution in an eye dropper couple of drops is to be put into each nostril. When it feels that salt water reaches the throat, one has to blow the nose hence by clearing the ceiling of nose.
All these home nasal congestion remedies are free from side effects and with regularity it will help in resolving the problem of nasal congestion.