When mucus and phlegm build up in your nasal passages or throat, you feel just plain awful. You might experience a persistent cough, have trouble breathing or feel tightness in your chest. When you come down with a cold, your first thought might be the find the cold medicine in the back of your medicine cabinet, but there are several natural remedies that can help.
Here are five natural remedies that remove phlegm and mucus fast:
1. Ginger
Ginger works as a natural decongestant as well as an antihistamine. It has powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties that work to strengthen the immune system and get rid of any illness. Ginger also has the power to soothe congestion by drying out excessive mucus. Chew 3-4 raw ginger slices a day or drink ginger tea several times daily.
Ingredients:
- 6-7 pieces of ginger
- 1 teaspoon of honey for antiseptic properties
- 1 teaspoon of black peppercorn to help fight infection
- 2 cups of water
Directions:
- Heat the water in a pan, then add the ginger and peppercorns when it starts to simmer.
- Cover the pan and let it to boil for 1 minute, then lower the hear.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture turns a pale yellow color.
- Strain and add 1 tablespoon of honey.
- Drink 2-3 times a day to soothe congestion.