Nasal congestion occurs when the tissues in the nose become inflamed and swollen because of inflamed blood vessels. This can occur when someone suffers from colds, flu or allergies. When this occurs, mucus can build up and become trapped in the nasal canal. Nasal congestion can cause additional problems such as a dry mouth or difficulty with eating and smelling. Fortunately, there are a number of home remedies that may be able to help with this problem.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has strong antibacterial benefits and can help reduce bacterial infections that may be causing nasal congestion. In addition, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eucalyptus is often used to help treat congestion from a cold or flu. According to the University of Michigan Health System, eucalyptus functions like menthol and helps receptors in the nasal membranes to reduce the mucus output. This process helps to release mucus that is trapped in the nasal canal. This remedy can be applied by adding eucalyptus oil to saline nasal drops and spraying them into the nose or by taking a supplement of eucalyptus oil (200 mg) three times per day.
Nasal Irrigation
According to Terrence M. Davidson, M.D., F.A.C.S. with the University of California School of Medicine, nasal irrigation can be done at home without the need for advanced equipment. To use this remedy take 1 cup warm (not hot) water and add 1 tsp. of salt and 1 tsp. of baking soda. Stir the mixture and with a bulb syringe spray the solution up into the nasal canal. Do this several times in a row, allowing the mixture to drain from the nose. Then, blow the nose out into a tissue. The saline solution combined with the warm water helps to clear the nasal congestion by clearing out old, dried mucus. It also relieves dryness and irritation caused by the congestion.
Fluids and Moisture
Fluids and moisture can also be helpful in treating the problem of nasal congestion at home. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is essential when treating a congested nose. This helps to keep the nasal canal moist and helps to release mucus that is trapped in the nasal canal. In addition, applying warm compresses can also help to loosen dried mucus in the nasal canal and provide a soothing treatment when a person is also suffering from pain because of the congestion. Also, taking a hot shower and breathing in the steam can also help to relieve nasal congestion.
