Cold and flu season is one of the most dreaded times of the month. Outside, pollen is hanging about like the plague and it’s unavoidable. With weather changes and allergy seasons, comes a tough fight from the immune system and plenty of congested noses.

Nasal congestion is caused by:

-Allergies

-Sinus infections

-Environmental irritants

Unfortunately, there are countless over the counter medicines to choose from that you just don’t know where to even start. One will aid with congestion but make you sleepy another is useful for any fluid building up in your lungs. It’s difficult to find the right balance and once you’re sold, your body may gain a tolerance for the medicine eventually. All around, medication can be a pain and could potentially prolong the issue.

The Solution

Natural remedies always seem to be the sure thing. Whether it is a hot beverage, exposure to steam, or guzzling down vinegar, these remedies have been used for over a hundred years for a reason.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most popular home remedy ingredients for its versatility. It can be taken in a multitude of ways: inhaling, gargling, and drinking. To inhale, just boil water and add some apple cider vinegar to it. Rest over the water and breathe in the fumes. For the adventurous type, take a shot or two of it. The bitter taste can be relieved with the addition of lemon juice or honey, which benefit your body as well. It’s a praised congestion cure.

Steam

Steam can work wonders when your nose is stuffy. Whether it is a hot shower or boiling a pot of water and resting over it with a towel over your head, the steam will ease the congestion. This congestion cure is a godsend.