31/10/2018
HOW TO ELIMINATE MUCUS AND PHLEGM FROM YOUR THROAT AND CHEST
Coughing and breathing difficulties are often caused by nasal or throat obstructions. The phlegm in the lungs also contributes to these health issues.
Even though it is not a life-threatening condition, it affects the quality of life and it is rather annoying. Moreover, if it is not treated, it can lead to even more severe health problems.
WHAT DOES PHLEGM REPRESENT?
Phlegm is a sticky substance that is secreted by the mucus of the respiratory system. Mucus membranes produce phlegm to protect the respiratory system.
Namely, the mucus is very sticky, so that it traps dust, viruses and allergies. Its function is to prevent infections, such as cold.
When the mucus concentrates in the chest and throat, it leads to coughing. Nonetheless, increased concentration of phlegm in the lungs that is a result of a cold, flu, viruses, bacterial infections, etc. can lead to more severe health conditions.
In addition, it can lead to a runny nose, fever, cough and breathing difficulties and overall weakened body. If the phlegm is not eliminated, it can obstruct the bronchial tubes, thus causing other health problems.
However, there are several natural treatments used to eliminate concentrated amounts of phlegm in the lungs and to sooth the respiratory issues more effectively. Some of the most efficient are:
GINGER
Ginger represents a beneficial antihistamine and natural decongestant that has antibacterial, antiviral and expectorant properties. The ginger root can relieve throat and chest congestion by getting rid of the phlegm.
In order to maintain your health and to treat your respiratory infections, you should either drink several cups of ginger root per day, or consume 3 to 4 slices of ginger every day.
HOW TO PREPARE GINGER TEA
Ingredients
Two cups of water
Teaspoon of honey
Teaspoon of peppercorn
6 to 7 ginger slices
Preparation
In a pan, boil the water and add the peppercorn and the ginger slices. When the water starts to boil, cover it and leave it to boil for a minute.
Simmer the mixture on a medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes. Let the mixture cool off and then add the organic honey.
To eliminate breathing difficulties and prevent congestion, consume 2 to 3 cups of ginger on a regular basis
LEMON AND HONEY
In addition, the lemon is abundant in vitamin C, which prevents congestions and provides a boost for the immune system. Thus, the acidity of the lemon breaks down the mucus.
Ingredients
Two tablespoons of lemon juice
One tablespoon of organic honey
Preparation
Mix the lemon juice and organic honey in a bowl. Consume it 3 times per day in order to prevent any further infections and prevent congestion.
STEAM INHALATION
Steam inhalation is one of the most effective home remedies for preventing chest congestion and eliminating mucus. Steaming will help you to restrain clogged mucus.
For better results, you can try infusing water with some herbs.
Ingredients
4 to 5 cups of boiling water
Half a teaspoon of dried rosemary
Half a teaspoon of thyme
Preparation
In a bowl, boil the water and add the rosemary and the thyme. Then, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam.
It will help you to loosen the secretion. You can repeat the inhalation process several times per day. In addition, you can take a steam shower twice per day.
Stay in a hot bath for 10 minutes in order to break down the mucus. But, after taking the bath, you should moisturize your body because warm water dries the skin.
The benefits of steaming can be increased by adding essential oils that destroy germs, reduce inflammation and sooth congestion. For example, tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that treat respiratory infections and an irritated throat.
Moreover, menthol oil soothes congestion and eliminates symptoms of asthma and sinus infections.
TURMERIC
Turmeric is rich in curcuma, which has powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties that reduce phlegm by eliminating bacteria that cause mucus. In addition, it helps to boost the immune system
Ingredients
Teaspoon of turmeric
Glass of warm water
Half a teaspoon of salt
Preparation
In a glass of warm water, add the turmeric. Then, add the salt and mix it will. You should gargle the mix for about 3 to 4 times per day for several minutes. This will help you to treat respiratory infections and to get rid of the phlegm in the chest.
You can also try gargling warm salt water. While the salt will help you to eliminate bacteria and reduce phlegm, the warm water will relieve the irritated throat.
To reduce phlegm, you should blow your nose, raise the humidity in your home, apply warm compresses to the affected areas, limit exposure to irritants, drink warm liquids and avoid cold drinks. Smoking also contributes to irritated respiratory tract and chest congestion.
Household cleaners and chemicals, paint fumes lead to irritated throat and lungs and increased mucus production. To reduce congestion, you should consume spice which can be added to your meals, such as garlic, chili, capsaicin and pepper.
