A stuffy nose can leave you feeling miserable. It makes it difficult to breathe, sleep, and enjoy normal activities. Many people reach for over-the-counter remedies, but these can come with unwanted side effects.

Luckily, natural remedies can offer relief without the harsh chemicals.

1. Steam

Steam is an excellent natural remedy for a stuffy nose. You can use steam in several ways, depending on what works best for you. Here are a few options:.

Take a hot shower: The steam from the shower can help loosen nasal congestion and make it easier to breathe.
Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help relieve nasal congestion. Try using a humidifier in the room where you sleep.
Inhale steam: Boil a pot of water and then carefully lean over it, using a towel to create a tent around your head and the pot. Breathe in the steam for several minutes.

2. Neti Pot

A neti pot is a small device that looks like a teapot. It is used to flush out the nasal passages with a saline solution. This can help clear mucus and relieve congestion. Here’s how to use a neti pot:.

Add a saline solution to the neti pot according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Lean over a sink and tilt your head to one side.
Place the spout of the neti pot in one nostril and slowly pour the solution into your nasal passage.
Let the solution drain out of the other nostril and repeat on the other side.
Rinse the neti pot and dry it completely after use.

3. Saline Rinse

If you don’t have a neti pot, you can also use a saline rinse to clear out your nasal passages. Here’s how to do it:.

Combine 1 teaspoon of salt with 2 cups of warm water.
Fill a bulb syringe or squeeze bottle with the saline solution.
Tilt your head to one side and insert the syringe or bottle into your nostril.
Squeeze the solution into your nostril and let it drain out of the other side.
Repeat on the other side.

4. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is a natural decongestant that can help open up your nasal passages. Here’s how to use it:.

Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water.
Lean over the bowl and cover your head with a towel to create a tent.
Breathe in the steam for several minutes.
You can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to your chest or under your nose.

5. Ginger

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce nasal swelling. Here’s how to use it:.

Add a few slices of fresh ginger to a pot of boiling water.
Simmer for a few minutes and then remove from the heat.
Place a towel over your head and lean over the pot.
Breathe in the steam for several minutes.

6. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil has a cooling effect that can help relieve nasal congestion. Here’s how to use it:.

Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a bowl of hot water.
Lean over the bowl and cover your head with a towel to create a tent.
Breathe in the steam for several minutes.
You can also add a few drops of peppermint oil to a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to your chest or under your nose.

7. Acupressure

Acupressure is a technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. It can help relieve nasal congestion by promoting better circulation. Here’s how to do it:.

Place your index fingers on either side of your nostrils, where the nostrils meet the cheeks.
Apply firm pressure for several seconds while breathing deeply.
Move your fingers up and apply pressure again, working your way up to the bridge of your nose.
Repeat several times.

8. Garlic

Garlic has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help fight off infections that may be causing your stuffy nose. Here’s how to use it:.

Add a few cloves of garlic to a pot of boiling water.
Simmer for a few minutes and then remove from the heat.
Place a towel over your head and lean over the pot.
Breathe in the steam for several minutes.

9. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that has anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and relieve congestion. Here’s how to use it:.

Add a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of warm water.
Stir well and drink.
You can also add turmeric to your food or take it in supplement form.

10. Hydration

Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it can also help relieve a stuffy nose. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help thin out mucus and make it easier to breathe. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Conclusion

A stuffy nose can be frustrating, but there are many natural remedies that can offer relief.

Try using steam, a neti pot, saline rinse, eucalyptus oil, ginger, peppermint oil, acupressure, garlic, turmeric, and hydration to reduce congestion and make breathing easier. These remedies are gentle and safe, and they don’t have the unwanted side effects of over-the-counter medications.