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. Moreover, if it is not treated, if may lead to more severe health issues.
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 allergies, dust and
viruses.
Its function is to prevent infections, like cold. When the mucus
concentrates in the chest and the throat, it leads to coughing. Nevertheless,
increased concentration of phlegm in the lungs as a result of cold, bacterial
infections, viruses, flu, may lead to severe health conditions.
In addition, it may lead to runny nose, weakened body, fever, cough and
breathing difficulties. If the phlegm is not eliminated, it may obstruct the
bronchial tubes, thus causing other health issues.
However, there are several natural treatments used to eliminate
concentrated amounts of phlegm in the lungs and to sooth respiratory issues
more effectively. Some of the most efficient are:
1. 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. To maintain
your health and to treat respiratory infections, you should either drink a
several cups of ginger root or consume 3 – 4 slices of ginger on a daily basis.
How to prepare the ginger tee?
You will need these ingredients:
• Two cups of water
• A teaspoon of honey
• A teaspoon of peppercorn
• 6 – 7 ginger slices
Preparation method:
In a pan, boil the water and add the peppercorn and the slices of ginger.
When the water boils, cover it and leave it to boil for a minute. Simmer the
mixture on a medium heat for 5 – 7 minutes. Leave the mixture to cool and then
add organic honey. To eliminate breathing difficulties and prevent congestion,
consume 2 – 3 cups of ginger on a regular basis.
2. Lemon and Honey
The mixture of lemon and raw honey can relieve the respiratory tract and
sooth coughing. Both the lemon and the honey have antifungal and antibacterial
properties. Moreover, the lemon contains Vitamin C, which prevents congestion
and boosts up the immune system. Therefore, the acidity of the lemon breaks
down the mucus.
How to prepare it?
You will need these ingredients:
• Two tablespoons of lemon juice
• One tablespoon of organic honey
Preparation method:
In a bowl, mix the lemon juice and the organic honey. Consume it 3 times
per day in order to relieve infections and prevent congestion.
3. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is one of the most efficient 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.
You will need the following ingredients:
• 4 – 5 cups of boiling water
• Half a teaspoon of rosemary (dried)
• Half a teaspoon of thyme
Preparation method:
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 loosen the
secretion. You can repeat the inhalation process several times per day.
In addition, you can take a shower steam twice per day. Stay in a hot bath
for 10 minutes in order to break down the mucus. However, after taking the
bath, you should moisture 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 instance, tea tree
oil has antimicrobial properties that treat respiratory infections and
irritated throat. Moreover, menthol oil soothes congestion and eliminates
symptoms of asthma and sinus infections.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is rich in curcuma, which has powerful antibacterial and
antiseptic properties that reduce phlegm by eliminating bacteria that cause
mucus. Moreover, it boosts up the immune system.
How to use it?
You will need the following ingredients:
• A teaspoon of turmeric
• A glass of water (warm)
• Half a teaspoon of salt
Preparation method:
In a glass of warm water add the turmeric. Then, add the salt and mix it
well. You should gargle the mixture 3 – 4 times per day for several minutes. It
will help you to treat respiratory infections and to get rid of 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 at your
home, apply warm compresses on the affected areas, limit exposure to irritants,
drink warm liquids, but avoid drinking 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 your meals with pepper, chili, capsaicin, and garlic.
Source : greenhealthyplanet