Some kind of obstruction in the throat or nasal passage can lead to persistent coughing and difficulty breathing. They can occur due to increased phlegm in the lungs. The phlegm is a substance that is secreted by the respiratory tract’s mucous membrane and it is responsible for fighting infections.
When it is accumulated in the chest and throat, the body expels it through coughs. Increased presence of phlegm can result in runny nose, difficulty breathing, persistent cough, fever and weakness. It may block the bronchial tubes and cause problems that are hard to be treated with conventional medications. But there are many natural remedies that can reduce the phlegm amount and treat the infection effectively and easily.
Here are some of them:
*Honey and lemon*
Mixture of lemon and honey can soothe the irritation and bring relief. The honey is antifungal and antibacterial agent. The lemon is rich in vitamin C that will improve the immune system and reduce the congestion.
Needed ingredients:
-One tbs. of honey (organic);
-Two tbs. of lemon juice;
Mix the ingredients and drink it up to three times a day in order to relieve the infection and fight congestion.
*Ginger*
It is natural decongestant and it has antibacterial and expectorant properties. It can soothe the throat and chest congestion by drying the phlegm and eliminating it. Eat three to four slices of ginger a day, or drink ginger tea.
Needed ingredients:
-Six to seven slices of ginger;
-two cups of water;
-One tsp. of honey;
-One tsp. of black peppercorns;
Cook the water and add the peppercorns and ginger when it begins to boil and cover and leave ti to boil for five to seven minutes. Let it cool down and strain it. Add the honey. Consume two to three cups of it per day to breathe easier and relieve the congestion.
*Apple cider vinegar*
It is powerful antibacterial agent and it can maintain health pH balance and prevent phlegm production. Drink a tbs. of ACV in one glass of water per day or you can gargle to soothe the sore throat.
*Turmeric*
It contains a compound called curcumin that has antibacterial properties. This is how you can treat respiratory infections:
Needed ingredients:
-One tsp. of turmeric;
-Half a tsp. of salt;
-One glass of water;
In the water, mix the turmeric and add the salt. Mix again and gargle it for few minutes, three to four times a day to fight respiratory infections and reduce the phlegm amount. The salt in this mixture helps in eliminating bacteria.
*Steaming*
It is great way to reduce chest congestion and loosen up the mucus. Breathing in steam and vapors will loosen the clogged mucus and provide relief. Here is how:
Needed ingredients:
-Half a tsp. of rosemary (dry);
-Half a tsp. of thyme;
-Four to five cups of boiling water;
Add the rosemary and thyme in boiling water and lead over with a towel over the head. Inhale the steam and repeat this three to four times a day. Blow the nose regularly to prevent excess phlegm and stop consuming cold drinks and foods. Quit smoking because it leads to chest congestion. Use humidifier at home to control the mucus and avoid exposing yourself on paint fumes, chemicals and cleaners. Do not swallow the phlegm, but gargle salt and warm water and spit it out. Consuming peppers and garlic will help you a lot.