How to Remove Mucus from Lungs Naturally?

Excess mucus in the lungs is prevalent in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchiectasis. The accumulation of mucus can obstruct narrowed air passages, making breathing difficult. Additionally, it may contribute to respiratory infections such as pneumonia. Effectively clearing this mucus, also known as phlegm or sputum, is crucial for managing lung issues. There are plenty of ways of clearing mucus from lungs, both natural and clinical. This article will emphasise how to remove mucus from the lungs naturally.

Tips to Remove Mucus from Lungs Naturally

Want to know how to get rid of mucus in lungs fast? Discover some natural remedies that will help. 

1. Stay Hydrated

Maintaining adequate hydration is essential to keep mucus thin. During illness, like a cold, increased fluid intake can help thin mucus, aiding in sinus drainage. Individuals with seasonal allergies might experience reduced congestion by staying hydrated. Some of the drinks that remove mucus from lungs include herbal tea, broths and warm water with honey and lemon. 

2. Saltwater Gargling

Saltwater gargling is a beneficial practice to alleviate cold symptoms, including excess mucus. Prepare a solution by mixing a cup of warm, bottled or filtered water with half to three-quarters teaspoon of salt. Take a sip, tilt your head back slightly and gargle for 30-60 seconds. Alternatively, saline solution in spray or neti pot form can also be used for similar effects. This simple and effective technique helps soothe the throat and reduce mucus, providing relief from respiratory discomfort.

3. Use Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus products have long been employed to alleviate cough and diminish mucus. Typically applied directly to the chest, these products can offer relief. Another method is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a diffuser or warm bath, aiding in nasal clearance and promoting respiratory comfort. The natural properties of eucalyptus contribute to its effectiveness in addressing respiratory issues.

4. Get Some Steam

Steam inhalation is an effective method for loosening mucus and alleviating congestion. You can create a makeshift steam room at home in the following ways:

• Inhale steam in the shower

• Lean over a bowl of hot water, covering your head with a hand towel to trap the steam around your face.

These do-it-yourself (DIY) approaches provide a convenient and accessible means to leverage steam for respiratory relief.

5. Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises to remove mucus from lungs can prove to be highly effective. Deep breathing exercises involve a deliberate inhalation and exhalation process, promoting the expansion of lungs. These exercises fall under the category of pulmonary hygiene, employing physical manipulation techniques to facilitate the expectoration of viscous mucus, ultimately aiding in the clearance of the respiratory passages. By incorporating regular breathing exercises into your routine, you can actively contribute to maintaining lung health and promoting a clearer and more comfortable breathing experience.

6. Use a Humidifier

Dry air can irritate the nose and throat, triggering the production of additional mucus as a protective lubricant. To mitigate this issue and enhance the quality of sleep, consider incorporating a cool mist humidifier in your bedroom. The humidifier introduces moisture to the air, helping to maintain nasal clarity and prevent the development of a sore throat. 

7. Include Garlic in Your Diet

Garlic, renowned for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, can be instrumental in combating infections and reducing mucus production, particularly in lung-related illnesses. Regular consumption of garlic contributes to the prevention of lung infections and aids in minimising the accumulation of phlegm within lungs. 

8. Consume Honey

Honey, being a natural remedy for cough, acts as a soothing substance for the throat. It offers resistance against diseases due to its antiseptic properties. Including honey in your daily regimen by mixing it into a cup of tea or hot water, may help alleviate the pain and offer gentle relief from breathing problems.

9. Use Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil is a natural decongestant that may provide relief from chest congestion. Utilise this essential oil in one of the following ways:

• Diffusion: Drop a few drops of peppermint essential oil onto your diffuser, filling the air with an aromatic smell that gives comfort while breathing.

• Inhalation: Create a steam inhalation by adding a few drops of the essential oil to a bowl of hot water. Lean over the bowl, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam. Inhale deeply for 5 to 10 minutes.

• Topical Application: For direct chest application, mix a couple of drops of essential oil with 10-12 drops of carrier oil. Test it on a patch of your skin, and if irritation doesn’t occur within 24 hours, apply the mixture to your chest.

10. Eat Pineapples

Incorporating pineapple into your diet can benefit respiratory health due to its bromelain enzyme. Bromelain assists in mucus breakdown and inflammation reduction. By adding pineapple to your meals, you may experience decreased mucus production and improved respiratory function.

Conclusion

These natural strategies offer practical and effective ways to alleviate mucus in the lungs. While adopting these remedies, it is essential to prioritise overall health and consult healthcare professionals, especially for individuals with chronic conditions. Balancing natural interventions with a healthy lifestyle can empower individuals to proactively manage and improve their respiratory well-being. Remember, individual responses may vary, and it’s crucial to tailor these remedies to personal health conditions.