When I was a child growing up in Germany, whenever I fell ill, my mother would employ all sorts of household remedies that had been used for generations in our family. It was not unusual to find myself with hot, smashed potatoes wrapped in a kitchen towel around my head. The remedy, intended to mitigate sore throats, bronchitis, and ear pain, did make me feel better.
I have to hand it to my mother. The approach worked, and it is still commonly used in Germany.
1. Gentle Chamomile Steam Bath
One of the cherished home remedies handed down from previous generations is the hot chamomile steam bath.Breathing over a simple pot of boiled water containing a small handful of dried chamomile flowers, with a towel over my head to create a sauna-like chamber, often did the trick.
After complaining to my mother about enduring this torture, I emerged 10 minutes later with a bright red face, intensive sweating, and a runny nose—goal accomplished.
Now I live in the United States with young children of my own. I had to defend these methods of hand-me-down family preparations against my doubting American husband for years, so odd they seemed to him.
Scientific Proof of Effectiveness
In the past, we had to trust the wisdom of our mothers and grandmothers. Today, we can take advantage of science, although funding for studying traditional medicine is often scarce. Hence, research on traditional healing wisdom often comes from faraway countries.Fortunately, in the case of the good old chamomile steam bath, scientific research has caught up.
Although all of them were started on a steroidal spray, Group A also received an “isotonic seawater spray with chamomile liquid extract.” Groups B and C had only isotonic seawater added to their regimen, differing only by the method of administration (spray versus nasal irrigation), while Group D received only the steroidal treatment.
Scientists then measured the nasal cavity clearance time and found that Group A had a statistically significant higher “nasal mucociliary clearance time,” indicating that breathing eased more rapidly. Thus, the addition of chamomile extract was deemed “a good alternative treatment option.”
How to Make a Chamomile Steam Bath
- Fill a medium-sized pot halfway with water and bring to a boil. Add a small handful of dried chamomile flowers to the water.
- Using a large bath towel, cover your head and surround the pot with the towel. Inhale the warm herbal steam through the nose, and exhale through the mouth for about 10 minutes, with a short break if needed.
- Regulate the temperature under the towel by lifting it slightly, allowing cooler air from outside to enter the towel chamber.
2. Ayurvedic Nose Oil
Another longtime favorite of mine, although not one that comes from my childhood, is nose oil. Originating from the Ayurvedic tradition, nasya oil is used to lubricate one’s nasal passages and mucous membranes.The mucosa is present not only in the respiratory tract, but also in the bronchi, stomach, intestine, and various organs. Its primary functions are lubrication and protection from abrasions—in this case, keeping the nasal passages moist.
This is crucial, as desiccated tissue compromises its vital role in the immune system. Dryness can lead to discomfort, irritation, and increased susceptibility to infection. Dry, cracked mucosal layers are vulnerable to viruses, bacteria, and fungi, compromising the body’s defenses.
Research Supporting Ayurvedic Practices
Research completed in 2023 and published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine evaluated the use of sesame oil-based Anu taila (an Ayurvedic nose oil) as a type of “biological mask” to prevent respiratory infections, such as COVID-19.Although scientists did not discourage people from using physical masks, the article states that “transnasal installation of medicated oils like A. taila or pure sesame oil will help in providing additional and effective nasopharyngeal protection.”
I personally swear by Ayurvedic nose oil for air travel. It seems that the air flow within the cabin always dries out nasal passages. To prevent that, I use a drop or two of nasya oil in each of the nostrils after boarding the flight. I have never caught an infection on the plane, even on long overseas flights.
3. Saline Nasal Rinses
Saline nasal rinses are another gentle option for combating congestion. This may be the Ayurvedic remedy most familiar to us Westerners.
How to Do a Nasal Rinse
- Use 8 ounces warm sterilized or distilled water. The water should be lukewarm so the salt will still dissolve.
- Mix 1 teaspoon of salt free from iodine and other additives into the water. Stir until salt is completely dissolved.
- Use a neti pot or other nasal rinsing device to facilitate the rinse, allowing the solution to flow through one nostril and out the other. Repeat up to three times daily, especially during times of significant congestion.
4. Herbal Rub
Aromatic chest rubs, such as Vicks VapoRub, are commonly used to alleviate congestion. Incorporating herbal essential oils into a base salve recipe creates a natural version that soothes irritated noses, stuffed sinuses, and chest congestion. Depending on the herb used, it can help ease breathing by opening tight lungs and respiratory passages.Basic Recipe for Salves
- 120 grams (4.23 ounces) carrier oil (almond, avocado, grapeseed, or olive oil)
- 40 grams (1.41 ounces) cocoa butter (Shea butter, beeswax, or lanolin are alternatives; note that the beeswax might make the salve a bit more viscous)
- Melt the oil and the butter or wax in a glass or metal container using the water bath method. Both will usually melt and combine at a temperature of 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
- To battle sinus congestion, add a few drops of either an essential oil blend or a single oil of your choice, such as eucalyptus, pine, cypress, balsam fir, black spruce, rosemary, or peppermint to the mix. You can also add a few organic menthol crystals.
- Pour into small amber glass containers and allow to set overnight with the lids open, closing them only when the salve has completely cooled.
5. Thinking Ahead
As respiratory tract infections and nasal congestion seem ever present, especially during the cold months of the year, it is essential to consider potential causes for these symptoms.What Could Be Causing the Nasal Congestion?
This inquiry becomes particularly relevant if symptoms persist or frequently reoccur. It could be a simple cold or any type of viral or bacterial infection.The triggers could stem from a structural problem, though, such as a deviated septum or nose polyps.
Could the Cause Be a Sensitivity to Dairy?
An important point to contemplate is whether sensitivity to dairy could be a contributing factor. Despite widespread assertions of no correlation between dairy intake and mucus production, my personal experiences lead me to believe otherwise.I used to suffer from three to four serious sinus infections per year and tried ongoing doses of Flonase, Sudafed, and other decongestants without a cure. My son had ongoing ear infections, had tubes put in his ear for drainage, and received multiple doses of antibiotics in his early years. Not until an ear, nose, and throat doctor suggested that we try a dairy-free diet was our family finally healed from upper respiratory infections.
Why the controversy?
Conduct a Personal Experiment
Try a dairy-free diet for at least four weeks. Eliminate all dairy products, such as milk, cheese, yogurt, sour cream, heavy cream, cottage cheese, etc.It may not be easy. However, if you do have a sensitivity to dairy, you should notice a difference after the four-week period.
After this period, gradually reintroduce dairy products, taking note of any changes in symptoms. Be your own detective. Keeping a food symptom diary can enhance understanding of the body’s responses.
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