How to Expell Mucus From the Lungs

Whether you suffer from allergies or a seasonal cold, chest congestion is not only uncomfortable, it is potentially dangerous. There are several over-the-counter remedies on the market. Some contain pharmaceutical expectorants, but many people prefer to use home remedies whenever possible. Fortunately, one such remedy is very effective and easy on the pocketbook. The following recipe can be used as a breathing treatment or a hot compress.

Things You'll Need

• Skillet
• 2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
• Large onion
• 1 tablespoon dry mustard
• Towel
• Sink full of very hot water

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Instructions

• 1

  Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in the skillet. Be careful not to let it get hot enough to smoke.

• 2

  Slice the onion thinly and drop the slices into the oil. Saute the onion until it is transparent and slightly caramelized.

• 3

  Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of dry mustard powder in the skillet and stir it together with the onion and oil. Remove the pan from the heat.

• 4

  Fill your kitchen sink with hot water. Pour the onion mixture into the water and set the pan aside.

• 5

  Lean over the sink, draping the towel over your head to make a tent for trapping the steam. Breathe the steam for at least 10 minutes, or until the water cools and no more steam rises. Sit someplace warm and soon you will experience a good productive cough.