How to Loosen Up Mucus Naturally

A number of things can cause congestion, including a cold, allergy and sinus problems. Loosening mucus can help ease congestion and the symptoms it causes. One choice is to turn to over-the-counter medications to loosen congestion. However, in some cases you can naturally loosen mucus without taking medication. Before proceeding with any self-treatment, consult with your physician regarding your symptoms because in some cases congestion may be a sign of a serious ailment.

Instructions

• 1

  Drink plenty of fluids. Staying well-hydrated will help thin mucus and keep your mucus membranes moist, thus less irritated. Health911.com recommends drinking eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.

• 2

  Breathe in steam. The steam from a shower can help loosen congestion. A humidifier can also help keep nasal passages moist, particularly if your live in a dry home. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or pine oil to your humidifier also may help soften the mucus. Use one pint of hydrogen peroxide and one quart of water in a cool-mist humidifier to loosen mucus naturally.

• 3

  Irrigate nasal passages with saline spray or a sinus cleanser. This will loosen the congestion blocking your nasal passages and irrigate your mucus membranes.

• 4

  Eat spicy foods. Hot peppers, horseradish and other spicy food help thin mucus and cause your nose to run.

• 5

  Avoid things that may produce mucus, like milk and milk products. Avoid smoking, caffeinated drinks and alcohol because they may dehydrate you, which is counterproductive.