Phlegm is a mucosal secretion of the respiratory tract that is produced when the immune system of the body fights back with inflammation and infections within the respiratory tract. Phlegm is a little different from mucus as it is formed from lungs and not from mucosal membranes of nasal passages.
It is normally expelled from mouth on coughing. Though, it is very uncomfortable, but is not a cause of severe concerns as long as it remains for a short while. Still, it is important to treat it because if it remains for a long duration, it may get settled in chest causing constant throat congestion, coughing, shortness of breath and even interference during sleep. It can irritate bronchial tubes and clog them, resulting in secondary upper respiratory infections that can demand hospitalization.
7 Home Remedies For Phlegm
Raw Honey
Raw honey is extremely beneficial in clearing of phlegm. Mix two tablespoons of raw honey with equal amount of grape juice and have it 3 times in a day, for a period of 5 days. The grape juice serves as an expectorant and along with honey supports in eliminating all phlegm from the body.
Another remedial solution is to mix juice of one lemon and one onion in 1 cup of boiling water. Then after the water has been cooled down, add honey for taste. Drink this complete solution in one instance and have it thrice in a day for 2 to 3 days to get rid of phlegm rapidly.
Pepper
Pepper serves as a natural expectorant and aids in easy removal of phlegm from the body. Take a little amount of freshly ground pepper, one teaspoon of honey and a pinch of turmeric. Add all these to 1 glass of warm milk and consume it 3 times everyday till complete phlegm is expelled out.
This is an excellent solution that not only offers relief from phlegm, but the recurrence of cold is also reduced significantly. This solution ensures healthy well being. Alternatively, a little amount of ground pepper and cumin seeds can be mixed with hot rice, a pinch of salt and ghee and then consumed. This comes as a tasty solution for rice eaters as it reduces phlegm and cold spells.
Mint And Eucalyptus Leaves
Boil a handful each of eucalyptus and mint leaves in a large pot, filled with water. Once the water has boiled, remove the pot and inhale vapours after draping a towel over your head.
Vapours of mint and eucalyptus will aid in opening the passage for the dry and congested phlegm to expel through. Those with obstructed phlegm that causes congestion must start this home remedy instantly, to get relieved from congestion. Also, one can make use of humidifiers at night for easing congestion.
Lemon
Simple solution for getting relieved from phlegm is by making use of one half of the lemon. Sprinkle the half lemon with black pepper and salt, and then suck the sprinkled lemon. Instantly, one will experience relief from thickened phlegm and the throat will get cleared rapidly.
Holy Basil
Holy Basil (Ocimum Sanctum) and betel leaves (Piper betle) are effective agents for flushing of phlegm. Use 10 to 15 tulsi leaves or 1 to 2 betel leaves and chew them to get rid of thickened phlegm.
Juice from these leaves of immense medicinal values, loosens the hard, dried phlegm, enabling its expulsion from the throat region. Betel leaves also support in healthy digestion.
Increase Fluids Uptake
While suffering from phlegm, increase your fluid intake in form of soups, broths and orange juices. Drink at least 8 glasses of water, preferably lukewarm water to loosen the hard phlegm and assist in its clearance more rapidly and easily.
Tonic Of Ginger And Onion
Prepare a homemade tonic from onion, ginger and sugar to get rid of phlegm. Take a finely chop onion, add one teaspoon of grated ginger and 2 teaspoons of sugar to it. Toss it well and keep it undisturbed for 20 minutes. Sugar serves as humectants that draws out liquid from ginger and onion and even makes the tonic sweet to taste.
The tonic no more has a pungent smell or taste of onions and can be easily used as tonic for kids suffering from phlegm. This tonic aid in boosting up the immune system and reduces the severity of infection. It increases the liquidity of phlegm and aids in its easy expulsion from the body. It is also effective in healing sore throat. Additionally, include ginger in other forms like tea, soups and food preparations as it is a natural decongestant that support in fighting off infections and offering relief from congested chest.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.