Picture this: it’s mid-December, your nose is running like a faucet but it’s too congested for a simple sniffle. You head to the pharmacy before it gets any worse, get yourself stocked up on Kleenex and Tylenol cold and flu , and some Lipton’s Cup-a-Soup, you head home to get some rest and wake up to find that the medication only made a slight difference and now you find yourself on social media asking everyone and their dog for their best remedies.
Your neighbor suggests Vick’s nasal spray…. This doesn’t do anything about the blockage and just makes your nose run even more. What are you supposed to do now?
Well, it turns out some of the leading decongestant medication doesn’t actually decongest. These products contain Phenylephrine, a component that was thought to be an effective decongestant but recently has shown no evidence that it actually is effective, according to the FDA.
What you do want to look for is either decongestants containing pseudoephedrine and/or seek out natural alternatives along with your medication choices. Here are a few suggestions just to get you started:
Oregano Oil
Oil of Oregano contains antioxidant and antiviral properties as well as being known for it’s aromatic flavonoids that beat out the strength of even peppermint or eucalyptus oil — other suitable decongestant alternatives.
Steam or moisture in the air
Steam and hot water are a great way to stay hydrated during cold and flu season. Steam loosens chest congestion and clears stuffy nasal passages whereas an entire hot shower helps relax the mind and body, washes away sick germs, and dilates blood vessels which helps relieve headaches.
Nasal Irrigation
Nasal irrigation or the use of a Neti Pot is a process where you rinse out your facial cavities with a saline solution. This isn’t recommended if you also have an ear infection, ear pressure or your sinuses are completely blocked.
Ginger
Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties and also works as a decongestant. Drink it in a tea, use a ginger wrap or just eat it as it is.
Hot Compress
Warm compresses can help ease swelling and open your sinus passage, relieving sinus pressure and pain. Reclining with a hot washcloth over your eyes and nose can help warm the nasal passages and loosen congestion.
Elevate your head while you sleep
Elevating the head at night could help reduce feelings of congestion. Lying down often makes congestion worse, perhaps because of changes in blood flow that occur in this position. Some people find it easiest to use a wedge pillow to keep the head elevated while sleeping. It may also be helpful to use a thick pillow or two regular pillows under the head.
Whatever it is that ails you, rest is best.