If you have been suffering from a persistent cough, chances are that you have a mucus buildup. Although this is not a serious condition, it can surely affect your health. And when left untreated, this may lead to more complications. Before you consult a doctor, there are few home remedies that can help clear the symptoms. Keep reading to know more about the many treatment options. There are several irritants that lead to formation of excessive mucus build-up and chest congestion. The main causes are common diseases like pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis, smoking, GERD (Gastroesophageal acid reflux), asthma, and allergies.
# Ginger
Drinking a cup of hot ginger tea can relieve the signs of chest congestion by clearing the throat. This remedy acts as an antimicrobial agent for reducing the phlegm effectively while the phyto-chemicals present in it can treat the harmful microorganism. You may prepare the ginger tea adding one inch of ginger in a cup of boiling water and one tsp honey. Cut the ginger and soak the pieces in hot water for five minutes. Strain and add honey. Mix well. Drink two to three cups of the herbal tea while still warm.
# Pineapple JuicePineapple juice can help clear up the congestion with its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and cleansing agents. You may consume one or two glass of the juice daily in or between your meals.
# TurmericTurmeric has effective antibacterial properties and is a great healing agent. Making a paste using ½ tsp turmeric powder, ½ tsp black pepper powder, and one tsp honey can ease the uncomfortable feeling of a congested throat. The use of black pepper acts as a decongestant and expectorant. Both turmeric and black pepper are helpful in easing the chest congestion discomfort.
# Essential OilEssential oil has certain properties that can help treat chest congestion. These agents can reduce mucus formation, acts as microbial and anti-inflammation agents against infection. You may use two to three drops of the essential oil mixed with any carrier oil. Apply this oil blend to your chest, sinuses, and back. Use it daily before bedtime.
# Apple Cider VinegarApple cider vinegar treats excess phlegm formation and helps you expel it after gargling. For best use, mix one tsp of ACV in a cup of warm water. Mix it well and gargle. Repeat this solution twice daily for best results.
# ThymeThyme works as an antimicrobial and expectorant agent to heal cold symptoms like chest congestion. You may drink two to three cups of thyme tea daily for best treatment. Preparing the herbal tea is simple. All you need is two tsp of the dried thyme and a cup of hot water. Soak the ingredient in the water for few minutes, strain, and consume it.