- If you are suffering from bronchial congestion, drink at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water a day. Water is the best expectorant, according to Health911.com, and helps to thin the mucus and make coughs more productive. Water intake is especially important if the congestion is due to illness due to the possibility of dehydration.
- Hot herbal tea aids in the reduction of bronchial congestion in two ways. First, the hot liquid tends to thin the mucus. In addition, herbs such as cardamom help clear the airway and reduce congestion. Other herbal teas to try include those containing peppermint, parsley or cinnamon.
- Eucalyptol is a compound that is 90 percent eucalyptus oil and can be used to help with bronchial congestion. Add 0.05 to 0.2 mL (one to two drops) of eucalyptol to one cup of boiling water and mix. Drink when the concoction has cooled to a safe drinking temperature. Drink this beverage only once a day, and do not give to children under the age of 6. You may add a tsp. of honey to the mixture for taste.
- Carrot juice is known to help relieve congestion in the ears, nose and throat and contains large amounts of beta-carotene and Vitamin A. Mix carrot juice with a small amount of warm water and a tsp. of honey and take several tsp. of this mixture a day. Note that although excessive intake of carotenoids, which are naturally occurring pigments, can lower white blood cell count, you would have to eat a pound of carrots every day for years to experience negative health effects, according to Agro Products Ltd.
- According to HPS Health, cranberries are excellent for relieving congestion in the bronchial tubes. Rather than buy cranberry juice at the store, which often contains large amounts of sugar and fewer nutrients than fresh cranberries, bring several cups of fresh cranberries to a boil with just enough water to cover them. Simmer two to three minutes, then drain the cranberries and puree them in a blender. Strain the skins. Mix 2 tbsp. of the resulting pulp with a cup of warm distilled water. Sip as needed to relieve congestion and cough.
- HPS Health also recommends a concoction made by pureeing a whole lemon (including skin and seeds) in a blender with 1 cup of distilled water. Add 1 tbsp. of molasses for flavor, but do not add sugar. This mixture, which you should sip slowly, helps thin mucus and restore mucus membranes.
.
previous post
next post