Having a stuffy nose is no fun especially if you are also dealing with other cold or flu symptoms. A persistent stuffy nose can make you feel tired, annoyed, and even in pain from the built-up pressure. So what causes a stuffy nose? A stuffy nose is the result of enlarged blood vessels in the sinuses; this often happens in response to an irritant in the form of allergens, bacteria, or viruses.
Although over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription nasal decongestants are often used to treat a stuffy nose, they come with serious side effects and can be addictive. In fact, almost all nasal sprays available in the market today can damage the nasal tissue and blood vessels if overused. As a result, natural alternatives to these medications are highly desired and recommended. Below are 7 of the most effective natural remedies for getting rid of a stuffy nose.
Use A Neti Pot
The Netti Pot is probably one of our most favorite remedies for a stuffy nose. The Netti Pot is used to flush out mucus and open up clogged nostrils. Simply fill the pot with a combination of distilled water and iodide-free salt. Stand over the sink, tilt your head to one side, place the spout of the pot in the top nostril, tilt until the solution enters the nasal passage, the water will flow through one nostril and out through the other nostril clearing the mucus out into the sink. Allow the water to flow for about one minute and then switch sides. The Netti Pot is a great and effective remedy for opening up the nostrils at home but if you are looking for relief on-the-go, a natural saline nasal spray provides great relief without all the mess.
Try An All-Natural Saline Spray
Saline nasal sprays are a great harmless natural alternative to prescription decongestants. Saline nasal sprays help clear out the mucus by both hydrating the nasal passages and sinuses, as well as lowering inflammation of the mucus membranes. Saline sprays can be made at home or purchased over-the-counter as a stand-alone product or in combination with decongestant medications. Take extra caution when using a saline spray that contains decongestant medication as it can damage your nasal passages or worsen congestion if used more than three days.
Use Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the most potent and popular aromatherapy oils used to relief decongestion. It is in fact included in many over-the-counter decongestant formulas like chest rubs for its cooling and clearing qualities. Eucalyptus oil is best used in a diffuser, steam shower, or in a decongestant formula like Clear Revive.
Try A Hot:Cold Ginger Compress
One of our favorite and easy remedies for relieving congestion and sinus pressure is the use of hot and cold compresses on the forehead, the eyes, and the cheeks. The alternating temperatures help promote blood flow and lower inflammation which helps open up the nasal passages. For an extra boost, we like dipping the compress in ginger tea. Ginger is one of the most effective remedies for fighting off sinus pain and inflammation.
Eat Or Breathe In Garlic Cloves
Garlic cloves are one of the most celebrated remedies in herbalism. Amongst a host of potent healing qualities, garlic is a powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal that helps promote the production of white cells and immune functions which can help both treat and prevent common cold and allergies. In addition, when crushed, garlic cloves release a compound called Allicin that helps thin the mucus and lower inflammation. Simply add some crushed fresh garlic to boiling water and breathe in the steam for congestion relief.
Use Peppermint Oil
Peppermint essential oil has long been used as a cooling and clearing remedy for allergies and stuffed nose. Peppermint oil contains menthol which has been shown to have anti-bacterial qualities in addition to helping clear out sinuses. As with other aromatherapy oils, we recommend using the oil in a diffuser or hot shower. Many nasal sprays like Clear Revive contain peppermint oil.
Massage Your Face
It might sound too simple but massaging the face soothe sinus pain and pressure, and helps relieve congestion. Place your index fingers on the outer edges of your nostrils or on the bridge of your nose in between your eyebrows, and apply moderate pressure for about 3 minutes. This sinus massage helps promote blood flow and opens up clogged sinuses.
Conclusion
During the allergy and cold seasons, make sure to keep a stock of one or more of these remedies at home to provide quick natural relief for a stuffy nose. You can also buy OTC decongestants but make sure to speak to a pharmacist before using any medicated decongestant as they can be harmful and dangerous. Alternatively, you can opt-in to choose an all-natural risk-free formula like Clear Revive.