7 Natural Ways to Clear Blocked Sinuses
Whether it’s caused by a cold, flu, or seasonal allergies, a stuffy nose can be an annoyance, interfering with sleep at night and comfortable breathing during the day. While there are plenty of over-the-counter products that promise to clear up sinus blockage, from cold/flu medications to antihistamines, many of these medications contain harsh, synthetic chemicals with harmful side effects like dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, and drowsiness. Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies for a stuffy nose, some of them as simple as staying hydrated and taking a long bath.
If you’re suffering from a stuffy nose, try these easy ways to breathe easily again:
1. Use a Humidifier or Vaporizer
While many people think that a stuffy nose is caused by excess mucus alone, inflamed blood vessels in the nose are a main contributor. When your body is subjected to a cold, flu, or allergen, histamine is released by your white blood cells as part of the body’s inflammatory response. Humidifiers and vaporizers soothe inflammation in the nasal passages by moisturizing the air. And if you do have excess mucus, this moist air will help to loosen up the mucus so it’s easier to expel from the body. When using a humidifier or vaporizer, be sure the device has been properly cleaned so it does not spread germs and worsen your illness.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking water, tea, broth, and other liquids can also loosen mucus and ease your stuffy nose. Staying hydrated strengthens your immune system by increasing lymphatic draining, detoxifying the body, and warding off any infection that may be contributing to the stuffy nose.1 Some studies show that hot liquids can actually provide more relief than room temperature liquids for those with obstructed nasal airflow.2
3. Try a Neti Pot
A neti pot is a teapot-shaped container used to irrigate the nasal passages using a trusted saline solution. Be sure not to attempt making your own as too much salt can cause additional irritation and inflammation and unfiltered water can be dangerous if used improperly. It has been used for centuries to treat nose-related issues. For those with chronic sinus issues, research has shown that among approximately 900 people, 77 percent saw improvement within three months and even greater improvement in symptoms by six months, along with fewer headaches, less use of over-the-counter medications, and decreased need to see a doctor for future sinus episodes.3
4. Sleep with Two Pillows
Trying to sleep when you have a stuffy nose can seem impossible. This is because when you lie down, blood flows to the head to create more pressure. Propping your head up with pillows can make it easier by relieving this pressure on your sinuses and not allowing mucus to pool. Being elevated not only reduces blood flow to the head, but also improves drainage.
5. Use Saline Nasal Spray
Saline sprays can reduce thick mucus secretions in the sinuses and nose while helping to wash away particles, allergens, and germs. There is even some evidence that saline spray can slow the spread of COVID-19 to the lungs.4 But it’s important to distinguish saline nasal spray from those containing steroids or other harsh chemicals. Saline sprays are not typically habit-forming while those containing chemicals can lead to dependency and more congestion issues down the line.
6. Take a Long, Warm Shower or Bath
Taking a warm shower or bath isn’t just great for relieving stress or achy muscles–it can also relieve congestion. Breathing in steam can clear up nasal blockages while moisturizing the sinuses just like a vaporizer would. A bath can also aid in relaxation, helping you to get better sleep, which is crucial for your immune health.
7. Place Warm Towels Over Your Face
In a similar sense, placing a warm towel over your face can also ease congestion with steam. Additionally, heat relieves swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages. Be sure that the towel is not too heavy and that you can breathe easily while it’s draped over your face.
Try Homeopathic Medications
If you still need more support, try Brillia Health products, which contain an antibody ingredient called lapine histamine immune globulin to fight inflammation and relieve your stuffy nose. This ingredient binds to the histamines your body releases when sick or having an allergic reaction and works with your body to minimize stuffiness instead of fighting your body’s inflammatory response like other antihistamines. Brillia Health’s Cold-Flu Recovery also contains other antibodies that boost immune cells and create a stronger immune response to help your body fight off illness more efficiently. This is important if you suspect that your nasal congestion is the result of a cold or flu.
Brillia Health products contain no harsh chemicals and will not cause any harmful side effects associated with other cold/flu medications, allergy medications, or steroid nasal sprays. They are also safe for children and people who suffer from blood pressure issues. If you’re also suffering from a cough, you can safely take Cold-Flu Recovery and Cough Control together for multi-symptom relief without drowsiness, nausea, headache, dry mouth, or upset stomach. These products can also help you avoid secondary infections if you don’t have one already.
Learn more about how Brillia Health works and find more resources on immune health at the Brillia(nce) Resource Center.
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