This is the gold standard, but technique is everything.
A stuffy nose, medically known as nasal congestion, occurs when the tissues and blood vessels inside the nose become swollen with excess fluid. It can be caused by the common cold, the flu, allergies, or sinus infections. While over-the-counter decongestants are widely available, many people prefer natural remedies to avoid side effects like drowsiness or jitters, or to use in conjunction with medication for faster relief.
Using temperature therapy on the face can help relieve the pressure associated with congestion.
Maintaining high fluid intake is critical for thinning mucus, making it easier to expel.
You need electrolytes to thin mucus. Plain water can actually dilute your serum sodium, making mucus stickier . Drink bone broth, electrolyte water with a pinch of sea salt, or warm lemon water with honey. The honey provides a mild osmotic effect, drawing fluid into mucus membranes.
Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water with a towel draped over your head for several minutes.
Eating wasabi, horseradish, or spicy mustard triggers the trigeminal nerve, causing a watery, reflex rhinorrhea (runny nose). This is different from congestion relief. It flushes out thick mucus temporarily. (grated, sniffed carefully) is the most potent. It contains allyl isothiocyanate, a volatile compound that vaporizes directly into the nasal passages.