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Top 9 Home Remedies for Chest Congestion

 

Chest congestion home remedies

If you are congested and full of mucus, give one of these 9 home remedies for chest congestion a try. In many cases, some of these home remedies are actually more effective than the expensive drugs you can buy from the pharmacy. Read on to find out more…

As you breathe throughout your day, you inhale microscopic particles floating in the air around you. These include dust, allergens, viruses and bacteria. Generally, these particles become encased in the mucus that lines your nose and airways, which are then transported to your throat where you can cough them out or swallow them. However, there are times when these particles can irritate the sensitive mucus membranes or a virus/bacteria can stimulate an infection. When this happens, inflammation begins to build throughout your respiratory system resulting in extra mucus. Chest congestion is the physical symptoms of having excess mucus and your body is unable to eliminate it in an efficient manner. This typically results in coughing, wheezing and a sensation of tightness – or congestion – throughout your airways.

chest congestion symptoms

Home remedies for chest congestion actively work to loosen the excess mucus while simultaneously treating the causes of its accumulation. Although there are many over-the-counter medications capable of accomplishing this same task, home remedies for chest congestion use the power of nature and non-synthetic compounds to eliminate mucus and restore healthy breathing.

  • Related post – 8 home remedies for post nasal drip.

Home Remedies for Chest Congestion

The following home remedies for chest congestion were selected based upon their ability to ease inflammation and promote the release of mucus buildup. As a general rule of thumb, if your congestion worsens after a week of self-care, you should visit your physician as a more serious underlying condition may be taking hold.

Remedy #1 | Salt Water Gargle

Perhaps one of the most effective, and common, home remedies for chest congestion is gargling with saltwater. The saline content found within saltwater directly supports the safe and gentle removal of mucus from your airways. Bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil and then add 2 tablespoons of table salt. Add just a dash of turmeric powder to the hot water and stir well. When the water has slightly cooled, pour the solution into your mouth and gargle for 2 minutes. Repeat up to five times per day for immediate relief.

Remedy #2 | Bay Leaf Tea

The bay leaf is an excellent home remedy for chest congestion as it features various active compounds capable of stimulating the release of excess mucus. To utilize this home remedy, bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil. Remove from heat and pour over three fresh bay leaves. Allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaves and consume once a day until your congestion is relieved.

Remedy #3 | Honey and Onion

Both honey and onion feature powerful anti-inflammatory properties. When used regularly, this simple concoction can reduce respiratory inflammation and promote the release of excess mucus. To utilize this remedy, simply place several slices of onion into a 5 tablespoons of raw honey. Allow the ingredients to soak overnight. The next morning, remove the onion and consume. After eating the onion, take 1 teaspoon of honey. Repeat up to four times per day.

Remedy #4 | Raw Ginger Tea

The pungent volatile oils found in ginger act as an expectorant, which means it directly supports the release of mucus and phlegm from your throat and airways. Simply cut 1-inch of ginger from a fresh ginger root and place in 1 cup of boiling hot water. Allow the ginger to steep for 10 minutes. Once the tea has steeped, add 1 teaspoon of raw honey and consume up to three times per day. Ginger can also help soothe an irritated stomach.

Remedy #5 | Warm Lemon Water

Much like ginger, lemons feature powerful volatile oils capable of releasing the hold of mucus within your respiratory system. Simply bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil and squeeze the juice of 1 whole lemon into the hot water. Grind 1/2 teaspoon of lemon rind into the water. Once at a comfortable temperature to drink, consume up to three times per day.

Remedy #6 | Black Tea With Lemon and Honey

This home remedy for chest congestion is not only effective, but also great tasting. Each ingredient – black tea, honey and lemon – feature potent anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. Not only will you experience relief from your chest congestion symptoms, but the caffeine within the black tea can help provide a much-needed energy boost. Simply brew 1 cup of black tea. Once fully steeped, add 2 teaspoons of raw honey and the juice from 1 lemon into the tea. Drink up to three times per day. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, decaffeinated black tea may also be used.

Remedy #7 | Boiled Vinegar

The strong odour that’s released from boiling vinegar is a powerful home remedy for chest congestion as it works as a vapor expectorant. Simply bring 1 cup of vinegar to a rolling boil and pour into a heat-safe bowl. Lean over the vinegar and take deep breaths. Make sure to have tissue nearby as this home remedy will release mucus from your airways, which will need to be coughed up.

Remedy #8 | Apple Cider Vinegar

There isn’t much apple cider vinegar can’t do. However, one of its most successful uses is as a home remedy for chest congestion. The acetic acid found within ACV acts as an expectorant, which actively works to release mucus and phlegm from your respiratory airway. Simply pour 1 ounce of ACV into a 1 cup of warm water and drink every eight hours.

Remedy #9 | Eucalyptus Oil Steam Inhalation

Because chest congestion is primarily located within the respiratory tract, the most effective home remedies for chest congestion involves medicinally-treated steam. Eucalyptus oil features a host of active compounds; however, the bulk of its mucus-eliminating qualities rests in its ability to perform as an expectorant. To utilize this home remedy, simply bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil. Pour the steaming water into a heat-safe bowl and add 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. While leaning over the bowl, drape a towel over your head and breathe deeply for three to five minutes. Make sure to keep your eyes closed during this treatment as the volatile oils from eucalyptus can create a stinging sensation if your eyes are left open.

Filed Under: A.K.W.N, Health/Fitness, Home Remedies, Homesteading

5 Incredible Uses for Diatomaceous Earth

DiatomaceousEarth

In recent years, the topic of Diatomaceous Earth (DE) has increased in mainstream consciousness. This unique compound is derived from fossilized phytoplankton, and its uses range from killing parasites in chickens to promoting healthier teeth and bones. If you’re curious regarding the use of this ancient fossil for modern healing and health, then continue on to discover the 5 incredibly useful and innovative uses for this ancient compound.

Update: You could now say there are 6 uses for diatomaceous earth as our new post: 5 home remedies for fleas details how to use DE to combat fleas around the home

5 Incredible Uses for Diatomaceous Earth

#1 | Natural and Effective Toothpaste

Due to the unique composition of DE, it’s among one of the greatest all-natural products to strengthen, whiten and protect your teeth. While it does feature slight abrasive qualities, its gentle enough to safely scrape away plaque and food particles from between teeth without damaging its enamel. Simply sprinkle a little DE over your favorite toothpaste and experience a natural way to brighten your smile.

#2 | All Natural Deodorant

The list of negative studies regarding the use of commercially-produced deodorants as it blocks your body’s natural ability to sweat and release toxins. Because of this, many are turning to all-natural alternatives; however, those with sensitive skin may develop rashes or irritation after using such products. DE is an excellent alternative as it inhibits the formation of bacteria that causes body odor without hindering with your sweat glands.

#3 | Exfoliating Facial Scrub

Because DE features a slight abrasive nature, it makes the perfect natural alternative to an exfoliating facial scrub. Due to its mineral concentration, such as calcium, zinc, copper and selenium, your skin is treated on the cellular level while dirt and debris is thoroughly lifted away. To utilize this remedy, mix one tablespoon of diatomaceous earth with aloe vera juice or coconut oil until a thick paste is created. Simply rub this solution on your face for one to two minutes and rinse clean with warm water.

#4 | Nourishing Shampoo

DE features a high silica concentration, which makes it an excellent product to nourish and treat your hair. To utilize this remedy, simply add 1 to 2 tablespoons of DE powder with a quarter-size amount of shampoo and thoroughly scrub. The unique composition of DE treats your hair by removing dirt and debris while injecting a large amount of nourishing minerals directly into hair follicles.

#5 | Eliminate Bed Bugs

Should you be suffering from a bed bug infestation, the use of DE is just as powerful – if not more – than the leasing chemical pesticide. Did you know many bed bugs have mutated to become immune to the active compounds in popular pesticide products, which renders them useless against an infestation. DE is a powerful option as it is capable of penetrating through the shell of bed bugs and literally drying them out. Simply sprinkle DE powder along your mattress and anywhere else bed bugs may rest to effective eradicate these pests from your home.

Amazon has a great range of Diatomaceous Earth, here is the one we use.

#6 | Bonuses

For even more incredible uses for Diatomaceous Earth, check out our other posts: Spiders, Roaches, Ants & More; Get Them Out Of Your Home With A 100% Natural/Safe Product and 5 Home Remedies For Fleas & A Flea Trap That Really Work!

Filed Under: A.K.W.N, DIY, General, Home Remedies, Recipes

Epsom Salts: 35 Health & Beauty, Household & Garden Uses (35 Uses!!!)

Epsom salt home remedies

What is Epsom salt?  Known chemically as magnesium sulfate it is a naturally occurring mineral discovered in water in Epsom, England. It is a must-have for use in the home, garden and also for personal care. Below are 35 household, health & beauty and gardening uses for Epsom Salts. (Note: Amazon has just about the largest and best value range or Epsom Salts on the planet!)

Epsom Salt Household Uses

  1. Cleaning Bathroom Tiles

Bathroom tiles pick up grunge over time and Epsom salt is a cheap and effective way to clean them. Mix the salts with an equal amount of liquid dish detergent. Then rub it on the grimy areas and scrub. The Epsom salt, along with the detergent, works by dissolving the grime. Also see: Remove Mold & Mildew NATURALLY With Tea Tree Oil.

  1. Ridding Raccoons from the Trash Can

For those plagued by raccoons foraging in the trash can, creating a real mess and making a din in the middle of the night Epsom salt could provide the solution. The reason is very simple; raccoons hate the taste of the salts. So spread a few tablespoons around the trash can and remember to repeat the operation after rain.

  1. Regenerate the Car Battery

A car stuck on the driveway because of battery problems can be a nightmare. One way to avoid this is by regenerating the battery using Epsom salt. If it sounds as if it is struggling to turn over dissolve an ounce of the salt in warm water and add to each of the battery’s cells.

  1. Make the Windows Look Frosty at Xmas

Frosty window makes the windows look seasonal at Christmas, but unless there is real snow outside it can be difficult to create the effect – unless there is Epsom Salt in the home. Just mix the salt in warm beer until it stops dissolving. Then use a sponge to apply the mixture to the windows. Once they dry they will have that frosty Yuletide look!

  1. Removing Burnt Food from Pots and Pans

Over cooked and burnt food can be difficult to remove from pots and pans. A few tablespoons of Epsom salt along with soap and halt water can remove the drudgery from scrubbing away stuck burnt food and leave the pots and pans clean.

  1. Nourish Houseplants

 Epsom salts in water can be used to nourish houseplants around the home and keep them fresh and healthy. Use 1 or 2 tablespoons of the salts per gallon of water to make the solution.

  1. Clean Hard Water Stains From Glass Shower Doors

Epson Salt provides an eco-friendly way to clean hard water stains off glass shower doors. Mix a cup of the salts, a ½ cup of baking soda and a ¼ cup of liquid dish soap. Make sure the shower doors are dry before cleaning. Scoop up the mixture with a damp cloth and begin the cleaning.

  1. Make a Homemade Fabric Softener

To save money on fabric softener take the Epsom Salt from the cupboard and make a homemade version. This can be done by taking 2 cups of the salt, a half cup of baking soda and 30 drops of essentials oils (such as citrus oils).  The ingredients should then be mixed together and added directly to the wash load (1/4 cup per large load).

Epsom Salt Garden Uses

  1. Ridding the Garden of Slugs

There are times of the year when the garden or yard seems to be infested by horrible slimy slugs. A tin of Epsom salt in the home can deal with this particular problem. Just sprinkle the salt in the areas where slugs appear and soon they will be gone. It appears slugs just do not like magnesium sulfate!

  1. Making Grass Even Greener

If the grass is browning under the summer sun it can be made to be the color it should be – green – using Epsom salt. It is the magnesium and iron in the salts which does the trick. Mix 3 tablespoons of the Epsom salts with a gallon of water. Next sprinkle it over the lawn and follow this up by sprinkling with plain water. This ensures the salts soak into the grass, restoring it to its natural color.

  1. Fertilize Tomatoes

Epsom salt makes a great fertilizer for tomatoes and other plants. Add one tablespoon of the salts for each foot of the plant every week. Epsom salt can also be used to fertilize roses, flowers, trees and houseplants.

  1. Growing Sweeter Fruit

 For people growing their own fruit in the garden Epsom salt can make them even sweeter. By applying the salts (2 tablespoons per gallon of water) chlorophyll levels are raised inside the cells of the plants which lead to sweeter fruits.

  1. Improve Nutrient Absorption in the Garden

For those who prefer organic gardening Epsom salt improves nutrient absorption naturally and avoids the need to use processed chemical fertilizers.

  1. Seed Germination Improvement

To improve seed germination in the garden add Epsom salt to the soil before planting. The magnesium in the salt strengthens cell walls leading to stronger seedlings. 1 or 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt should be poured into the bottom of each hole before the seeds are dropped in.

  1. Preventing leaf curling

Epson salt can be used to prevent leaf curling which is caused by a deficiency of magnesium in the plant. To solve the problem add the salt to the soil around the foot of the plant. For a quicker option mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in a gallon of water and sprinkle directly on the leaves.

  1. Homemade Weed Killer for the Garden

Epsom salts can be used to control weeds in the garden and also to produce a homemade weed killer. Mix 1 gallon of white vinegar with 2 cups of Epsom salt and a ¼ cup of regular dish soap then pour the mixture into a gallon sprayer or watering can. The weeds can be killed within only a few hours. This homemade weed killer should be used to control weeds every two weeks and it poses no danger to pets or children.

Health & Beauty Epsom Salt Uses

  1. Relaxing the Body

 An Epsom salt bath at home is ideal for relieving tension. Dissolve the salts in a bath. The salt molecules promote serotine production in the body which helps reduce the effects of adrenaline. The magnesium helps promote energy in the cells of the body without causing restlessness or anxiety.

  1. Helping circulation

Important Epsom salt uses include taking it to help improve circulation which in turn can prevent serious cardiovascular problems. The salts help by reducing inflammation and ensuring the elasticity of the arteries remains protected. Healthy arteries lessen the risk of blood clots, as well as the buildup of plaque and damage to arterial walls.

  1. Relief of Constipation

 When constipation strikes reach for the Epsom salts; they are one of the best natural home remedies for constipation and the condition can be eased by drinking a cup of warm with two tablespoons of the salts dissolved in it. The salts provide relief because they are a saline laxative.

  1. Whitening Teeth

Among Epsom salt’s many uses is teeth whitening. Mix 1 part of the salt with 1 part water and then use the mixture when brushing the teeth. Use the salts to gargle with after brushing.  Not only does this method produce gleaming teeth it also helps prevent periodontal diseases. Also see: 8 Surprising Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide for more on natural teeth whitening.

  1. Removing Splinters with Epsom Salt

Most splinters are in and out in a few seconds with little first aid required, but sometimes splinters can be real nasty – they can be big, get stuck in deep and get infected. I had to go to the ER once for a glass shard splinter. I felt it go in but I never saw it until they pulled it out – it was almost 3cm long!

I think when splinters don’t come out quickly and easily, most people resort to needles and cutting with a sharp knife etc.  These methods don’t always work and they can actually make things a lot worse, either way, there is pain and blood involved. There doesn’t have to be pain, blood, knives or needles though – all you need is some magnesium sulfate, or Epsom salts as it is better known.

Two ways to use Epsom salts to remove a splinter.

  • Firstly you can try mixing some Epsom salts in a cup of warm water and then soak the finger etc in it for a few minutes 2-3 times a day.
  • If it’s a bigger/deeper splinter, you can sprinkle a pinch of Epsom salts onto a band-aid/wound dressing and apply put it over the splinter. Remove and reapply twice a day.

Whichever method you try, within a day or so the splinter should work its way towards the surface, where you’ll be able to pull it out without any pain. If the splinter hasn’t moved and/or it has become infected, now’s the time to consider seeing a medical professional.

  1. Dispelling foot odor

The odor from feet can be very unpleasant and embarrassing. Dissolve Epsom salts in a foot bath and soak the feet for around 15 to 20 minutes to get rid of the smell. Epsom salt foot baths are also great for relieving the feeling of heavy legs and foot pain.

  1. Treating Sunburn

Epsom salt is an effective way to treat sunburn. Its strong anti-inflammatory properties can help ease the itchiness and pain of sunburnt skin.

  1. Removing Blackheads

To remove blackheads a teaspoon of Epsom salt and 3 drops of iodine in a half cup of boiling water. When the water has cooled apply the mixture to the blackhead using a cotton ball. Repeat 3 or 4 times before gently removing the blackhead. Then dab with an alcohol-based astringent. Be sure to check out our complete how to get rid of blackheads post.

  1. Fade Bruises

 Epsom salt in the home can be used to fade bruises by putting 2 tablespoons of the salt in a cup of warm water. Soak a washcloth in the solution and apply as a compress to the bruised area. 

  1. Improve Digestion

If digestion needs to be stimulated take the Epsom salts from the cupboard and dissolve 1 or 2 tablespoons in a cup of warm. Drink the Epsom salts solution before eating.

  1. Detoxification

To detoxify the body stir 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salts in a bathtub of warm water then soak for 10 to 15 minutes. The magnesium sulfate in the salts makes an Epsom salt bath a great way to detoxify.

  1. Maintain Muscle and Nerve Function

Magnesium sulfate has the ability to relieve tension, pain and cramping. It also governs the body’s use of calcium which aids the transmission of chemical signals throughout the nervous system and regulates fluid retention in the body’s cells.

  1. Regulating Blood Sugar

Epsom salts in the home can be used to regulate blood sugar levels. This is because magnesium sulfate helps the body to produce and use insulin. If taken regularly mixed in water, Epsom salts may be able to lower the risk of diabetes and also boost the body’s energy levels.

  1. Hair Care

Epsom salt can be used to provide natural and cheap hair care. The salts should be mixed with equal parts of conditioner. The mixture can then be applied to the hair and left for around 20 minutes. Then rinse the hair well and let air dry. The Epsom salt and conditioner mixture can be used on both greasy and dry hair.

  1. Use as skin foliate

Take the carton of Epsom salt off the shelf and take a handful of the salts and massage over wet skin. To take full advantage of this natural chemical free skin foliate start at the feet and move up the body towards the face. Finish off by taking a soak in the bathtub.

  1. Athletes Foot and Toenail Fungus Treatments

Both athletes foot and toenail fungus can be treated using Epsom salt. Both treatments involve pouring a handful of the salts in a bowl of hot water and soaking the affected foot or toes. For toenail fungus treatment the toes should be soaked in the mixture three times a day. Also see: How To Use Mouthwash To Cure Toenail Fungus & Athlete’s Foot

  1. Sleep More Soundly

One way to ensure a good night’s sleep after a long hard day is to take a relaxing Epson Salt bath around an hour before going to bed. The salts help improve sleep because they increase the level of magnesium in the body. To enjoy a relaxing soak before bedtime fill the tub with hot water and add a cup of Epsom salts and a cup of baking soda. Then go to bed prepared for a night of good sleep and hopefully sweet dreams.

  1. Make a Homemade Skin Mask

Epson salt can be used to make a natural skin mask free of chemicals. Just a teaspoon of Epsom salt is required along with a puree made up of white egg, a half teaspoon of pantothenic acid powder, a teaspoon of Aloe Vera and a chopped ripe tomato and 2 drops of thyme oil. Apply to the face for around 15 minutes then rinse off. This homemade skin mask is also a good treatment for people suffering problems with acne.

  1. Relief for Gout

Gout is a very painful condition and Epsom salt can be used to provide relief. Add 2 or 3 teaspoons of the salts to a basin of hot water and soak the affected area for 30 minutes.

Filed Under: A.K.W.N, General, Health/Fitness, Home Remedies, Homesteading

Natural Toothache Remedy For Instant Pain Relief With Clove Oil

Natural toothache home remedy

Toothache, like earache is no joke; minor ailment but huge amount of pain. Next time you or one of your family is suffering with toothache, give this simple natural remedy a try…

The remedy is clove, you can use whole clove, ground clove or ideally clove oil. I know, I can hear you saying nothing new here, it’s that same old clove toothache remedy, and you’d be right, HOWEVER, how many of you have actually tried it? Many of us are aware of popular old timer home remedies and we instantly dismiss them as hogwash. If I am honest I was the same way about clove toothache remedy, that was, until I tried it… There is nothing new here other than me urging you to give this natural remedy a try the next time your or a family member has toothache. I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the results.

  • RELATED POST: 8 Oral Thrush Home Remedies

Natural Toothache Remedy For Instant Pain Relief

You will need: some salt, olive oil, cotton balls, cloves, ground cloves or clove oil. Clove oil is best, if cloves or ground cloves is what you have, use that.

Before either method, firstly swill your mouth thoroughly with some warm salty water. It’s important so don’t miss out this step!

Clove oil method – mix 3-4 drops of clove oil with around half a teaspoon of olive oil and then soak a cotton ball in the mixture. Now place and hold it in your mouth against the sore tooth or gum. Once the pain has eased, spit out the cotton ball and discard. Do not use this method in bed at night as it’s obviously a choking hazard.

Whole cloves/ground cloves method – if you have whole cloves you need to ground them up, as it is ground cloves we need. Take a large pinch of the ground cloves and pack it against the sore tooth or gum. Again leave in place until pain has eased and then spit out.

This clove toothache remedy will only ease the pain of the toothache. It does nothing to treat the cause of the toothache itself.

Additionally, I have also added a home remedies for toothache infographic below. The infographic includes some additional toothache home remedies you can try.

21 Home Remedies For Toothache

Toothache home remedies infographic

100% Natural Homemade Antibacterial Toothpaste Recipe

I am quite surprised by just how many requests I have received to post about homemade toothpaste. It’s seems an awful lot of you are not fans of fluoride! Having read up on this a bit I can see why, but what also concerns me is the use of Sodium Lareth Sulfate in most toothpastes…

SLS is a chemical detergent and foaming agent.  It is often found in liquid soap, shower gels and shampoo and it is a common skin irritant. It is thought that some people who experience regular mouth  mouth ulcers and swollen gums, could be sensitive to SLS.

Anyway, whatever your reason for wanting to make your own natural toothpaste, here is an excellent recipe from ‘Thank Your Body’. It contains: coconut oil, bentonite clay, sea salt, peppermint essential oil. You can purchase bentonite clay from Amazon, this $9.99 bag will make enough toothpaste to last a year or more…

A Homemade Remineralizing Toothpaste Recipe

If you want a easy to make, fluoride free toothpaste recipe that ‘apparently’ helps to remineralize your teeth and strengthen the tooth enamel, this toothpaste recipe from ‘Keeper Of The Home’ contains the wonder ingredient – coconut oil (see our previous post: 101 Coconut Oil Uses) plus sea salt and peppermint oil.

(Image from: Wikipedia. Infographic from: Survival Life)

Filed Under: A.K.W.N, Home Remedies

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