How to Clear a Stuffy Nose with Home Remedies

Introduction

A stuffy nose can be very annoying; it gives you a feeling of fullness in nose and face and even makes it difficult for you to breathe. You may feel that your nose is blocked and packed with a lot of mucus. Stuffy nose or nasal congestion happens because of irritation to the nasal tissues, which stimulates the nasal nerves and enhances the amount of blood entering the nose. This causes swelling of your nasal passages and increases mucus production that makes your nose feel stuffy.  

While medical management is needed in some cases, natural remedies are usually effective and safe in dealing with a stuffy nose in earlier stages. In this blog, we will share a few simple home remedies and procedures that can help you deal with a stuffy nose. We’ll also discuss the causes and management of nasal stuffiness in children and when it is important to consult a doctor for nasal congestion. 

Causes of Stuffy Nose

There are various causes of the stuffy nose that include: 

• Bacterial, viral and fungal infections affecting the nose and sinuses 
• Allergic reactions including asthma 
• Anatomic variations like a deviated nasal septum 
• Obstructive lesions in the nose like nasal polyp  

There are various lines of treatments according to the underlying cause. Whenever you feel nasal congestion or other stuffy nose symptoms, like sneezing, fever, and postnasal drip, persist for more than ten days, you need to seek medical attention.  

Home Remedies for Stuffy Nose

While medical treatment is needed in some cases, a stuffy nose can be managed well with some home remedies in an earlier phase. Home remedies and palliative measures can work effectively to calm the irritated nasal passage. These include: 

1. Peppermint

Peppermint is very effective in clearing a stuffy nose. It contains menthol, which is a decongestant that helps in thinning mucus and clearing nasal passages¹. 

Applying a small amount of diluted peppermint essential oil on the sides of your nose can provide a cooling sensation and help stop a runny nose. You can also add peppermint leaves to steam and inhale or drink a hot cup of peppermint tea 2-3 times a day.

Saline solutions, steam and decongestants are very helpful in addressing concerns about nasal congestion. Steroids may again be used but with utmost caution and for the shortest possible time since their use beyond a continuous period of 3 days or so may worsen the congestion and damage the nasal mucosa. 

Dr Ashish Bajaj , M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

2. Turmeric

Turmeric can be very beneficial in managing a stuffy nose. Its active compound curcumin has natural anti-inflammatory properties which helps relieve congestion in the nose and sinuses and makes it easier to breathe².  

You can add some turmeric to a hot cup of milk with honey and consume before sleeping. 

3. Ginger 

Ginger is high in anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that may help reduce the stuffy nose. It is super effective against a clogged nose. You can use ginger as a compressor³.  

For the compressor, you can boil 2 cups of water with ginger pieces in it. Soak a fresh washcloth in the brew and place it on your face gently for 15 minutes. You can also make ginger tea and drink this tea thrice daily for instant relief from a stuffy nose. However, avoid overconsumption and be especially careful if you have any medical conditions. 

4. Honey

Honey is versatile and beneficial for various health conditions, making it valuable for stuffy nose management. It is a rich source of powerful nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. It is also believed to have antimicrobial property that helps fight against various bacterial infections. Honey can calm the nasal passage, soothe an itchy throat, and clear the excess accumulation of mucus⁴. 

Two tablespoons of honey with a cup of lukewarm water can clear your clogged nasal passage. You can also add honey to milk or tea to relieve your symptoms. But consume wisely, particularly if you’re diabetic, as honey has high sugar content. 

5. Garlic 

Garlic is a very good source of antioxidants that stimulate your immune system by aiding the formation and function of white blood cells. It helps in the production of antibodies that may fight against your respiratory complaints⁵. 

You can add some garlic cloves or crushed garlic in hot soup and consume at least twice a day. 

6. Grapefruit extract  

Grapefruit is a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants that help to boost your immunity. It has been shown grapefruit seed extract works as an anti-viral agent, which can help fight respiratory infections and manage symptoms such as nasal congestion⁶. 

For best results, add a few drops of grapefruit extract in warm water and inhale it. The steam of this extract may clear your blocked passage instantly.  

7. Onion  

Onion is rich in vitamins and antioxidants and thus have several health benefits. They can help relieve inflammation and allergies. Onions can be consumed in food for soaking in their benefits, however, for clearing nasal congestion, inhaling its vapours may be helpful⁷. It is believed that smelling onion for 5 minutes can help clear your stuffy nose.  

8. Spices 

There are a lot of spices available in the Indian kitchen, out of which, black pepper is said to work wonderfully for a stuffy nose. Others like hot peppers or horseradish can also temporarily clear nasal passages and reduce congestion due to the capsaicin content.  

You can make a drink of a tablespoon of black paper and a tablespoon of honey. Mix these ingredients and add them to water and boil the water. Drinking this mixture can provide quick relief from a stuffy nose. 

9. Apple cider vinegar  

Apple cider vinegar is rich in essential nutrients that are necessary to get relief from a stuffy nose. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties which can help fight infections and provide relief from a stuffy nose⁸.   

Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with warm water and consume it at least 3 times a day. You can also add a tablespoon of honey to this drink. 

10. Warm Drinks 

Drinking a lot of warm liquids in various forms such as soups and teas can help to relieve your blocked nose. It can help thin the mucus in your nasal passages, pushing the fluids out of your nose and decreasing the pressure in your sinuses.  

Although most of these home remedies are backed by research for their effectiveness in relieving nasal congestion or stuffy nose, further long-term human trials are needed to support the claims. However, use them in moderation and be extra cautious if you have any medical issues. Also, remember that these should never be a replacement for medical therapy when needed. 

A neti pot works at its most basic level. It thins mucus and helps flush it out of the nasal passages. Research¹⁰ backs up these claims, showing that nasal irrigation can be an effective way to relieve sinus symptoms when used along with standard treatments. 

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

How to Open-up a Stuffy Nose in 5 Minutes

While these home remedies may be helpful, you need to be persistent and patient to see the results. Fortunately, there are also a few effective techniques you can practice at home to help also you unstuff your nose instantly. These include: 

• Drinking Warm Water: Sip on a glass of warm water slowly. This can help soothe the irritation in your nasal passages and reduce stuffy nose. 
• Nasal Irrigation: Using a saline nasal spray or a neti pot, rinse your nasal passages with a saline solution. This can help clear mucus and irritants, providing quick relief. 
• Acupressure: Gently press your fingers on the sides of your nose near the nostrils and hold for a minute. This may help reduce nasal congestion. 
• Warm Compress: You can apply hot pressure from the outside of your nose to relieve the inflammation in your nasal cavity and make it easier to breathe. 
• Steam Inhalation: Steam taken from boiling water in a pot or a commercially available steamer is an effective remedy for congestion. It helps break down and clear mucus and opens up the nasal passage.⁹ Also, you can add herbs like peppermint and inhale their steam 2-3 times per day for improved relief. 

Remember, these methods can provide temporary relief, but if your nasal stuffiness persists or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, staying hydrated and getting adequate rest can also contribute to a quicker recovery. 

Stuffy Nose in Babies and Kids

A stuffy nose in babies and young children is a common occurrence, and it can be distressing for both the child and the parents. Let’s explore the potential causes, effective remedies, and relief strategies for dealing with a stuffy nose in infants and kids. 

Causes of Stuffy Nose in Babies and Kids

• Common Cold: One of the primary reasons for having a stuffy nose in babies and children is the common cold. Cold viruses can cause inflammation and increased mucus production in the nasal passages. 
• Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can trigger allergic reactions in children, leading to a stuffy nose in kids. 
• Dry Air: Dry air, especially during the winter months when indoor heating is in use, can dry out the nasal passages, making it difficult for children with stuffy noses to breathe comfortably. 
• Environmental Irritants: Exposure to environmental irritants like cigarette smoke or strong odours can irritate the nasal passages and cause congestion in kids. 

Home Remedies and Relief

• Saline Nasal Drops: Saline nasal drops or sprays are safe for babies with stuffy noses and young children. They can help loosen mucus and provide relief. Gently suction the nose after applying saline drops. 
• Humidifier: Using a humidifier in the child’s room can add moisture to the air, preventing nasal dryness and offering relief for stuffy noses in kids. Ensure the humidifier is clean and well-maintained. 
• Elevating the Head: For stuffy nose in babies, elevating the head of the crib slightly can help mucus drain more effectively. For older children with congestion, extra pillows can have a similar effect. 
• Steamy Bathroom: Create a steamy environment by running a hot shower and sitting in the bathroom with the child for a few minutes. The steam can help loosen mucus and alleviate stuffiness in kids. 
• Hydration: Ensure your child with a stuffy nose stays well-hydrated. This helps keep mucus thinner and easier to clear. 
• Nasal Aspirator: Use a bulb syringe or nasal aspirator to gently remove mucus from a baby’s nose with congestion. Be cautious not to insert it too deeply. 
• Allergy Management: If allergies are the cause of stuffy nose in kids, identify and minimize exposure to allergens. Consult a paediatrician for allergy testing if necessary. 

While a stuffy nose in babies and kids is often a minor and temporary issue, consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen. They can provide guidance and rule out any underlying concerns, ensuring your child breathes easy once again. 

When to Get Help for Stuffy Nose

Hopefully, these home remedies for a stuffy nose can help you get some much-needed relief. However, in some cases, you may not experience any progress or recovery. Here are some things to keep in mind that may need medical attention: 

• If your nose does not clear up for more than 5 days, it may be a sign of something more serious 
• If you find it very difficult to breathe (either through your nose or mouth) 
• If you have additional symptoms like green mucus, tightness in the chest and severe coughing 
• If your stuffy nose is accompanied by headaches, ear pain or facial pain, it may indicate something serious  
• If you have a fever along with a stuffy nose and neither of them goes away despite home remedies and antipyretics 

These symptoms may point towards a serious bacterial or viral infection, or some other root cause. Please be sure to inform your doctor or meet them at the earliest in case you have the above symptoms. 

Also Read: Everything To Know About the Influenza Vaccine & Its Importance 

Conclusion 

A stuffy nose can be frustrating, with blockage of nasal passages and an excess of mucus. Causes include bacterial, viral or fungal infections, allergies and more. Seeking medical attention is necessary if symptoms are persistent or are accompanied by fever. However, early-stage relief can be found through some effective home remedies like peppermint, turmeric, ginger, honey, garlic, grapefruit extract, onion, spices, apple cider vinegar and warm drinks. Some simple procedures like steam inhalation, warm compresses and nasal irrigation can help provide instant relief. But remember, for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or persistent fever, immediate medical attention is essential. By understanding these remedies and symptoms, individuals can take control of their stuffy nose discomfort and seek expert evaluation if necessary. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References 

1. Almatroodi SA, Alsahli MA, Almatroudi A, Khan AA, Rahmani AH. Peppermint,(Mentha× piperita): role in management of diseases through modulating various biological activities. Pharmacognosy Journal. 2021;13(3). https://www.phcogj.com/sites/default/files/PharmacognJ-13-3-822.pdf 

2. Wu S, Xiao D. Effect of curcumin on nasal symptoms and airflow in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. 2016 Dec 1;117(6):697-702.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1081120616310547 

3. Yamprasert R, Chanvimalueng W, Mukkasombut N, Itharat A. Ginger extract versus Loratadine in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial. BMC complementary medicine and therapies. 2020 Dec;20:1-1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32312261/ 

4. Asha’ari ZA, Ahmad MZ, Din WS, Hussin CM, Leman I. Ingestion of honey improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis: evidence from a randomized placebo-controlled trial in the East coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Annals of Saudi medicine. 2013 Sep;33(5):469-75. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6074882/ 

5. Lissiman E, Bhasale AL, Cohen M. Garlic for the common cold. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2014(11). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6465033/ 

6. Go CC, Pandav K, Sanchez-Gonzalez MA, Ferrer G. Potential Role of Xylitol Plus Grapefruit Seed Extract Nasal Spray Solution in COVID-19: Case Series. Cureus. 2020 Nov 3;12(11):e11315. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7645297/ 

7. Seo MY, Kim KR, Lee JJ, Ryu G, Lee SH, Hong SD, Dhong HJ, Baek CH, Chung SK, Kim HY. Therapeutic effect of topical administration of red onion extract in a murine model of allergic rhinitis. Sci Rep. 2019 Feb 27;9(1):2883.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6393461/ 

8. Yagnik D, Serafin VJ, Shah A. Antimicrobial activity of apple cider vinegar against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans; downregulating cytokine and microbial protein expression. Sci Rep 8. 2018: 1732. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-18618-x  

9. Vathanophas V, Pattamakajonpong P, Assanasen P, Suwanwech T. The effect of steam inhalation on nasal obstruction in patients with allergic rhinitis. Asian Pac J Allergy Immunol. 2019;4. https://apjai-journal.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/AP-090818-0393.pdf 
10. Office of the Commissioner. Is rinsing your sinuses with Neti pots safe? U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 2025 [cited 2025 May 26]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/rinsing-your-sinuses-neti-pots-safe

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

92

58