The major causes of coughing and breathing issues are obstructions of the nasal and throat cavity. Often caused by phlegm that accumulates in the lungs. Phlegm is a gooey substance released by the respiratory system as a way to protect itself. The role of phlegm is to trap all the dust, contaminants, and allergens. However, eventually the body creates excessive amounts of phlegm which leads to coughing and colds.
Phlegm is often accompanied by a weakened body, breathing difficulties, fever, and a runny nose. If not eliminated quickly, the accumulation can cause an obstruction of the bronchial tubes. The follow list is a compilation of natural remedies that make an excellent way to eliminate excess phlegm from the body.
1. Turmeric
The active ingredient of turmeric, curcumin, provides strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which eliminate bacteria that cause mucus and reduces phlegm while boosting the immune system.
Add a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of warm water, add half a teaspoon of salt and stir. Gargle the mixture three times daily for a few minutes to treat respiratory infections and eliminate phlegm in the chest.
2. Honey & Lemon
The combination of lemon and honey treats respiratory issues and offers potent antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It boosts the immune system and prevents congestion. In a bowl, mix a tablespoon of organic honey and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and consume it three times daily to fight congestion and eliminate excess phlegm.
3. Salt water
To soothe a sore throat and clear phlegm, gargle warm salt water twice daily. In a cup of filtered water, add 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and stir well to dissolve it. Sip a bit of the mixture and tilt the head back slightly. You should let the solution wash into your throat without drinking it. Then, gently blow air up from the lungs to gargle for about a minute, and then spit out the water.
4. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation will loosen mucus in the lungs and help its elimination from the body. In a larger saucepan, boil half a teaspoon of thyme and rosemary in water, and remove from heat. Cover your head with a towel and start inhaling the steam. Repeat a few times daily.
You should also take a hot bath twice daily to break down the mucus easily. To boost the effects, add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, like tea tree oil, since they offer powerful antimicrobial effects.
5. Ginger
Ginger offers powerful expectorant, antiviral and antibacterial properties, that treat throat and chest congestion, and prevent respiratory issues and infections. Therefore, make sure you eat 3-4 ginger slices daily or drink a few cups of ginger tea.
To prepare it, in a saucepan with boiling water, add 6 ginger slices, and a teaspoon of peppercorn. Boil for a few minutes, and leave it to simmer for 5 more minutes over medium heat. When cooled down, add a teaspoon of honey. Another option to soothe the lung congestion is by spicing up your meals with peppers, chili, capsaicin, and garlic. Don’t forget to drink plenty of warm drinks during the day.
According to HealthLine:
“Try consuming foods and drinks that contain lemon, ginger, and garlic. There’s some anecdotal evidence that these may help treat colds, coughs, and excess mucus. Spicy foods that contain capsaicin, such as cayenne or chili peppers, may also help temporarily clear sinuses and get mucus moving.
There is some scientific evidence that the following foods and supplements may prevent or treat viral respiratory diseases: licorice root, ginseng, berries, Echinacea, pomegranate, guava tea, and oral zinc.”
