Natural Decongestant Remedies

Nasal congestion can be caused by many reasons. We use the term stuffy nose, but really more accurately, what you are experiencing is blocked up sinus cavities.

When your body comes into contact with some type of irritant such as dust, allergens, cold viruses or a sinus infection, the mucus membranes in your sinuses begin to work overtime creating mucus to soothe the irritated tissue.

Unfortunately, most of our mucus membranes work too well, creating more mucus than is needed. The result is sinus cavities filled with mucus.

We all know that blocked sinus cavities are a pain.

It is not only annoying and inconvenient, but nasal congestion can also cut into your beauty rest.

We have all experienced sleepless nights due to blocked nasal passages. There are a number of over the counter medications, but some of those can have unpleasant side effects. There are, however, natural alternatives to regular nasal sprays.

The solution to nasal blockages is actually quite simple. The nasal passage needs to be cleaned out. The easiest way to do this is nasal irrigation. Basically you just wash it out! A safe, natural, homemade nasal spray is just the way to go. You can whip up your own nasal spray right at home.

Nasal Irrigation Decongestion Recipe

1. Simply combine 4 cups of water, 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

2. Stir the mixture well and add to an old nasal spray bottle or to an eye dropper bottle.

You should store the spray in the fridge as the solution works best when cool. Irrigate the nasal passage as often as needed throughout the day. If you experience a burning sensation then perhaps you need to dilute the solution a bit more.

Steam Inhalation Decongestant Recipe

In addition to saline nasal irrigation, it is also helpful to treat yourself to steam inhalation for really stubborn congestion. Steam inhalation is useful for nasal and chest congestion.

Many people find straight steam helpful enough to break up their congestion, but if that is not quite strong enough, you can add certain essential oils to your steam inhalation treatment. Many essential oils can dramatically improve chest and nose congestion.

To create your steam inhalation treatment simply bring a pot of water to a rolling boil on the stove. Remove from heat and carefully pour into a large bowl. Add 2-3 drops of a helpful essential oil, lean your face over the bowl, cover your head with a towel and breathe deeply until the treatment begins to cool. Some of the best essential oils to add to your treatment are oils that have either antibacterial or antiviral uses. A few of the best oils for congestion are lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree.

The added benefit of these inhalation treatments is that they tend to be very comforting as well as effective. When you are all stopped up and feeling cruddy you need a little pampering. An essential oil inhalation treatment is just the natural prescription to get you feeling your best again.