Home Remedy for Chest Congestion

Chest congestion is a painful disease caused by the accumulation of excessive mucus in the lungs.

People with chest congestion also experience a terrible cough that attempts to eject the excess mucus. The patient may face great breathing difficulty accompanied by chest pain. There may be constant coughing, with a peculiar breathing sound emanating from the lungs. Other symptoms include dizziness, wheezing, body ache and fever.

Prolonged common cold and cough often lead to this disease. However, it may also be due to chronic bronchitis or asthma. In advanced stages, it may lead to pneumonia, heart failure and lung cancer. See a physician if you suspect that you have chest congestion. Meanwhile, try some home remedies for fast relief.

Home Remedies

Steam inhalation is one of the most effective methods to get relief from chest congestion. Boil some water in a large bowl and add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or some basil leaves. Then cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam. The steam dilutes the accumulated mucus. Coughing becomes less painful.
Gargling with hot water is also an effective way to loosen the mucus. Do it twice or thrice a day, with some salt, for the desired results.
A balanced diet can get rid of chest congestion. Ensure that your diet is rich in Vitamin C and E. Eat plenty of fruits like lemon, orange and pineapple as well as green leafy vegetables and salads.
Herbal tea is a powerful remedy for chest congestion. Tea prepared with ginger, cinnamon, clove and pepper can be consumed twice or thrice a day. Chamomile tea also provides great relief. It builds immunity, preventing common cold, cough and flu.
Oil massage often provides great relief from chest congestion. A mild massage using oils like eucalyptus, rosemary and warm mustard oil can be very effective. The difference is noticed within a few days.
Yoga and pranayama also soothe the lungs and are very good remedies for chest congestion.