Natural Decongestants and Expectorants

The easiest way to use natural decongestants and expectorants when needed is with food. Several foods are very effective at relieving congestion. There are several foods that are natural decongestant remedies.

Onions are natural decongestants and expectorants. Sometimes simply cutting up a raw onion is enough to start loosening phlegm and mucus. If that doesn't work, use the raw onions in any food that you enjoy. Make sure to use lots of onions. I like to eat a sandwich with a thick slice of onion. Many times this is all that is needed to relieve congestion.

But onions are a favorite food of mine. For people who don't like to eat onions, this may not be an option to help relieve congestion. For those people, I recommend keeping onion slices and honey mixed together in a glass jar in the refrigerator. Whenever congestion becomes bothersome, simply swallow a couple of spoonfuls of this natural decongestant remedy.

There are other foods that can be used as natural decongestants and expectorants. Any spicy foods will help relieve congestion. Spicy salsa, chili, and other Mexican foods work well to relieve congestion. If you're not a fan of Mexican food, try Wasabi or any type of food with spicy heat. Spicy food that is also hot in temperature helps to relieve congestion, but not necessary.

Steam is a miracle worker for relieving congestion. A steam vaporizer is a natural decongestant remedy that works very well with no worrisome side effects. If a little eucalyptus oil is added to the steam, this home remedy is even more effective.

If a steam vaporizer isn't available simply take a steamy shower. If you don't feel well enough to take a shower, heat a pan or bowl of boiling water. A few drops of eucalyptus oil may also be added to the water after it has been removed from the heat. Make a tent with a towel or cloth over your head and inhale the steam. Of course, be careful not to be burned by the steam and never use this easy, natural decongestant method with children.

Another one of the most effective natural decongestants is old-fashioned salt water. Mix about 8 ounces of water with a half tablespoon of salt. There are Neti pots available to use to help inhale the salt water. Neti pots take some getting used to, but work really well as a natural decongestant method. If you don't have a Neti pot, simply cup your hand and pour a little saltwater into your palm. Breathe in the saltwater through one nostril and tilt your head back. After a few seconds, lean your head back down over a sink and let the saltwater drain back out. Repeat with the other nostril. Some of the saltwater may drain down your throat, but is not harmful. If you don't want to make your own saltwater solution, inexpensive saline nasal drops can be found in the pharmacy sections of most stores.

There are other natural decongestants available that can usually be found in health stores. If they can't be found in your area, they are readily available online. Just be certain that you purchase well-known, reputable products when using natural decongestants.

Vitamin C is a natural decongestant. The recommended dosage of vitamin C for congestion is up to 5 grams a day. Gradually increase the vitamin C dosage, starting at 500 milligrams daily. Stop increasing the dosage when the congestion improves or when you get to the 5 grams daily limit.

Discontinue use if you experience stomach upset. Don't take chewable vitamin C, as it can be damaging to your teeth. Also avoid high doses of vitamin C if you have anemia, kidney disease, or take blood thinners.

Bromelain is another supplement that is one of the best natural decongestants. Bromelain is derived from the stem of the pineapple plant. Bromelain helps relieve congestion naturally by helping to reduce mucus in the sinus cavities. Bromelain is more effective with congestion that is caused by sinusitis and allergies than congestion associated with colds and flu. The effective bromelain dosage for a natural decongestant is about 400 mg daily.

Avoid taking bromelain if you are allergic to pineapples. Contact your physician or pharmacist if you take prescription drugs before using bromelain. Bromelain can increase the effectiveness of other medications by causing more effective absorption, so a lowered dosage may be necessary.

Wild oregano oil is an effective natural antifungal, antiviral, and antibiotic. Wild oregano oil contains many compounds that are natural decongestants as well. Wild oregano oil helps with congestion caused by many conditions including sinusitis, colds, and allergies. To use wild oregano oil, just take a few drops under your tongue. Wild oregano oil is somewhat hot, so you can mix it in juice or honey if you like.