Phlegm and mucus are signs of an underlying infection and should not be ignored.
It is most noticeable when a person is ill or has a chronic medical condition. Even when a person is ill, mucus forms in some parts of the body.
It keeps these areas from drying out and aids the body in its defence against foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses.
Here are 6 ways to treat it:
1. Stay hydrated
Fluids will help thin out the mucus, preventing it from accumulating in your throat. Drink plenty of water, tea, and other beverages to ensure you’re meeting your daily water requirements. Snack on water-containing foods, such as soup or fruit. Women require approximately 11.5 cups (2.7 L) of water per day, while men require approximately 15.5 cups (3.7 L) per day. To help relieve phlegm, drink hot fluids such as warm water, tea, or cider. The heat will soften and thin the mucus, allowing it to drain more easily. This aids in the clearing of your throat.
2. Gargle with salt water
Gargling with salt water helps to thin mucus and clear the throat. A warm glass of water should contain 2 to 3 tablespoons of salt. Take a sip of salt water and gargle for a few seconds with your head tilted back while keeping the water on your throat. Then repeat the process of spitting out the water. You can repeat this process as often as necessary throughout the day, roughly every two to three hours. This at-home remedy may even help to prevent upper respiratory tract infections.
3. Drink peppermint tea
Peppermint tea contains menthol, an essential oil that can alleviate cold and flu symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, runny nose, stuffy nose, and headache. This tea also has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that aid the body in fighting colds and recovering faster.
4. Inhale the steam from a hot water bowl
Inhaling steam made from lightly salted water and plant essential oils like eucalyptus and rosemary will help keep your mucus membranes moisturised. To clear your nasal passages, you can also dab a few drops of these essential oils on a handkerchief and take a deep breath.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is an absolute superfood. It relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and boosts immunity—exactly what the doctor ordered!
In a glass of hot non dairy milk, combine half a teaspoon each of black pepper and turmeric, and a scant teaspoon of honey. You can drink this delicious concoction every day until the mucus clears up.
Don’t use cow’s milk in this recipe because dairy products can thicken mucus, which is the opposite of what you want. You can also try a non-dairy turmeric tea.
6. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
A person who consumes too much of either substance becomes dehydrated. Drink plenty of warm, non-caffeinated beverages when mucus and phlegm are a problem.
