7 Natural Remedies You Can Try for Chest Congestion
Method #6: Take an over-the-counter expectorant
The most common cause for the flu or other colds is a viral infection. While over-the-counter treatments cannot cure the disease itself, they may be helpful in easing unpleasant symptoms like – you guessed – chest congestion.
Look for expectorants that contain an ingredient called guaifenesin. According to experts, this ingredient can be efficient in breaking up the mucus stuck in your chest.
However, Dr. Mensch points out that this ingredient may not work for everyone and there’s no conclusive evidence as to why it does work in some people. Even so, if all other methods fail, this one is worth a try as well as long as you use it safely.
Method #7: Try camphor
Vapor rubs are already a classic treatment for common colds in many countries around the globe. These products usually contain menthol, camphor or eucalyptus oil, all of which are known for relieving chest congestion and even improving sleep in ill children.
During a study published in the journal Pediatrics, researchers divided 138 children with ages 2-11 with colds in three groups. The first group received vapor rub on their chest and neck before bedtime, the second group received petroleum jelly and the last group didn’t receive any treatment.
The first group of children who got vapor rub showed considerably more improvement in their symptoms including congestion and coughing.
Looking for more cold-related useful content? Try our posts here:
- Flu or Coronavirus? How to Boost Your Immunity For Both
- 8 Best Foods to Eat When You Have a Cold (and Two to Avoid)
- Why Do Men Catch a Cold 2 Times Faster Than Women?
What are you doing to ease unpleasant symptoms caused by the cold or flu? Share your techniques in the comments and let’s keep each other healthy!
