Post-nasal drip (PND) – It is becoming a common problem these days. Generally, it occurs when nasal mucosa produces excess of mucus. It can happen to people of all ages and causes very irritating and uncomfortable situation. The glands in the inner lining of the nose, throat and airways continually produce mucus. Normally, the mucus is clear, thin, and very runny. It is said to moisten and clean the membranes, traps and clears inhaled foreign substances, humidify the air in the airways and fights infections. But when mucus production goes awry or there is overproduction of mucus, it gives you a drip type feeling in the back of your throat. It simply gets thick and sticky, turning yellow or green, it hang around in the throat causing severe problem.
There are a number of factors triggering these changes in mucus production. It can be due to flu, cold air, allergies, air pollution, deviated septum, dusty or smoky conditions, age, pregnancy, and many other reasons. If you are also facing the same situation, you need some effective, safe and easy solutions, isn’t it? Fortunately, you can treat it at home now. Here are some home remedies to ease the symptoms of postnasal drip and prevent the problem.
Gargling: Do you know simple gargles with salt water can help you fight the discomforts of post-nasal drip? Yes, it helps thin the mucus and thus, make an easier way to get rid of it in less time. All you need is add ½ teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of warm water. Make sure you stir it thoroughly and gargle with this solution 2 to 3 times a day.
Steam: It has been one of the most preferred and easiest treatments. It helps you control excess mucus production and works more efficiently with essential oils. For this you need a bowl of hot/ boiling water, you can add a few drops of any essential oil to this. Now just drape a towel over your head, hold your face over the bowl and deeply inhale the steam. You need to continue the process for at least 10 minutes. Later blow your nose. In addition, warm showers can help you break up the mucus.
Garlic: It is easily available in your kitchen and has those powerful antibiotic properties, which controls overproduction of mucus and prevents infection. Using this potent herb promotes quick recovery. Just chop down 3 to 4 garlic cloves, roast them using 1 teaspoon of clarified butter and eat them with warm milk. Repeat the process twice a day.
Ginger: Another kitchen element which brings forth antiviral, antibacterial and expectorant properties, ginger is also a natural decongestant. Thus, it will not only reduce overproduction of mucus but also help relieve hoarseness, sore throat and chest congestion. To reduce post-nasal drip signs you must drink ginger tea 2 or 3 times a day. But here it is important to make it in right way. For this, you need 1 tablespoon of sliced ginger. Boil it in 1 to 2 cups of water for 10 minutes and simmer on low heat. Then strain it out and add a little raw honey to it.
Cayenne Pepper: The presence of capsaicin in cayenne makes it antihistamine and helps treat post-nasal drip. Regular usage thins the mucus and causes easy elimination. You need to add ½ teaspoon each of cayenne pepper to honey. Consume it 2 or 3 times daily for a few days to soothe an irritated throat. You can add cayenne pepper to your cooking routine as well.
