Mucus is normally a protective element in our body, which is why we have mucus or snot even when we are well. These help us prevent the area from drying out oa defend our body from viruses and bacteria, but they are not always welcome.
Excess mucus is usually caused by:
- Infections (usually common cold or flu)
- Allergies.
- Irritation of the nose, lungs or throat.
- Digestive conditions.
- Smoke.
- Lung diseases.
How can we get rid of mucus or phlegm?
There are many ways to prevent mucus and phlegm from invading our body, so that we have excess of both and find it difficult to breathe, swallow or simply have a normal day.
- Keep the air humid, dry air can irritate your nose and throat, causing a lot more mucus. Place a cool mist humidifier and keep your nose clean.
- Drink plenty of fluids, with this you will help your body stay hydrated, causing mucus to decrease. If you have allergies, staying well hydrated will help you a lot.
- Use a warm, damp washcloth and put it on your face., inhalation through a damp cloth usually helps to quickly return moisture to the nose and throat, reducing mucus and relieving pain.
- Don't hold in your cough, cough is the most natural remedy that our body has against secretions of the lungs and throat.
- In any case avoid alcohol and caffeine since both substances lead to dehydration and increased phlegm. Also avoid irritating chemicals.
Natural remedies that we can use against mucus and phlegm:
The number of home remedies that exist against mucus and phlegm are amazing, although most do not usually work against a very advanced flu, in case of very advanced flu we must always turn to our doctor and a good medicine.
- Salt water gargles They serve to soothe a sore throat and remove residual mucus. We should simply use a small spoonful of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle.
- He eucalyptus It is usually a good natural and home remedy against mucus and especially against cough. It can be used in several ways, directly on your chest in cream format, with a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil in a diffuser or with a warm bath.
- The Honey It is usually another very popular home remedy, since it has antiviral and antibacterial properties. We simply must consume 1 tablespoon of honey every 3 or 4 hours.
They can also be used some foods either essential oils that help against mucus buildup or excess mucus:
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Lemon
- ground cayenne
- Berries
- Ginseng
- Guava
- licorice root
- Grenade
- Basil Oil
- Cinnamon Bark Oil
- Peppermint oil
- Lemongrass Oil
- Tea tree oil
In the case of essential oils, they can be inhaled directly from the bottle or used in a diffuser.