Quick Ways To Treat Chest Congestion At Home

Everyone experiences chest congestion at least once in a lifetime. The problem is such a common condition in both children and adults.

Since it is a widely prevalent condition, some people do not take it seriously and treat it right away.

It is recommended to treat chest congestion at the initial stage itself, so that it does not lead to a grave issue like asthma.

The most common cause of it is the cold which happens due to bacteria and allergens.

Chest congestion hampers easy breathing by blocking the trachea and respiratory tract with mucus that builds up during this time. This literally irritates the respiratory system.

Some of the symptoms that can be seen are a heavy chest, chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, and dizziness It is also quite embarrassing and annoying to keep clearing the throat of the mucus in front of other people.

So, take the reins and tackle the problem in an easy way by following the given home methods meticulously.

1. Drinking Warm Water

Prefer to quench your thirst with warm water when suffering from chest congestion. Drinking warm water loosens up the phlegm that builds up in the chest during this time. It is easier to get rid of the mucus this way, thus providing some relief.

2. Milk & Honey

This is a household remedy for chest congestion being handed down over for generations. It is a well-known fact that turmeric has many medicinal properties. It is an antioxidant and is a great cure for health issues. Stir in half a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of hot milk. Two teaspoons of honey and a pinch of black pepper must follow. Drink the mixture when hot to relieve chest congestion.

3. Lemon Juice & Honey

Take a tablespoon each of freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey. Add them to a glass of hot water. This mixture is a great remedy for chest congestion. This must be had once in the morning and evening for fast relief. Honey takes care of the infection in the respiratory tract if any and the acidity in lemon thins up the mucus.

4. Gargle With Salt And Warm Water

Gargling with salt and warm water can be done many times in a day until the chest clears up. It is suggested to be done 3 to 4 times. Salt helps remove mucus from the chest and hot water soothes the irritation in the throat. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle it away.

5. Ginger Tea

Ginger is a wonder herb with anti-inflammatory properties. The secretion of the mucus stops with the presence of polyphenols in ginger. Ginger can be had in the form of a tea. Get hold of a tablespoon of freshly chopped raw ginger pieces. Add them in hot water and allow the juices of ginger to seep in for 5 minutes. Strain and add in some honey. Drink this concoction 3 times in a day.

6. Black Coffee

Cough and shortness of breath are two resultant problems of chest congestion. One or two cups of black coffee a day can bring some relief to the breathing problems faced. However, this must be had in moderation, as an excess amount of black coffee can have adverse effects like higher blood pressure and heart rate.

7. Steam

The idea behind inhaling steam is that the heat and the moisture help break up the mucus accumulated in the chest. Boil a bowl of water and make sure it is piping hot. Add eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to the water. Place your face over the opening of the bowl and cover yourself with a towel, so that the steam does not escape. Inhale by taking deep breaths and do the same 2 to 3 times in a day.

8. Turmeric + Hot Water Gargle

Turmeric does a great job in dealing with the symptoms of chest congestion such as cough and pain. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, provides immediate relief from chest congestion. Simply, add a pinch of turmeric to a glass of warm water and gargle with it few times in a day.

9. Onion Juice & Lemon Juice

Onions are rich in sulphur and quercetin, which help in breaking up the mucus. When had with honey and lemon juice, the effectiveness of the mixture is great. Keep ready juice from one small-sized onion. Mix it with one teaspoon each of lemon juice and water. Add half a teaspoon of honey too. Combine well and heat up the mixture a bit before consumption. This must be had thrice daily.