If there is one thing that 2020 has brought to the forefront of our minds, it is the need to take great care of our health. Utilizing proper handwashing techniques, training ourselves to keep our hands off our faces, and masking up when in public to help slow the spread of COVID-19. These are just a few key ways that we can play an active part in ensuring our good health and strong immunity as we navigate the coronavirus pandemic and beyond.
The health of our lungs is so important. A strong, deep, full breath offers nourishment right down to the cellular level, and we need all the goodness we can get these days! If you are suffering from a cough or congestion, you probably don’t need to be reminded of this fact… you probably just want some relief as soon as possible!
Causes Of Congestion
Mucus buildup and congestion can be caused by a variety of ailments that range in severity. You may suffer from allergies, making congestion something you might be dealing with constantly. Other ailments could include a lung infection, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), chronic bronchitis, or asthma. The list can go on and on.
Whatever the cause of the mucus buildup, it’s not fun, and you want it to go away as quickly as possible. In 2020 we’re all about keeping ourselves in tip-top condition and giving our bodies every chance to fight hard against the unknown pathogens it encounters. (1)
Home Remedies For Mucus In The Chest
If you have chest congestion, there are several remedies to try. Hot tea, or simple lemon water, is a great option. Keeping yourself hydrated is a fantastic way to keep mucus at bay. You might also try steaming your face. Simply heat up some water, until it is steaming but not quite boiling. Set it on the counter or a table, and lean over the bowl, covering your head and the bowl with a towel to help trap the steam. Breathe deeply. Try a couple of drops of eucalyptus or tea tree oil in the hot water.
Soothing honey is another great option for giving mucus the heave-ho. It is believed that honey possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties, and that makes it a great addition to your diet, not just when you’re suffering chest congestion.
The ancient herbal remedies that Mother Earth has provided for us, are some of the best ways to stay ahead of the curve health-wise. Foods like garlic, ginger, and lemon are famous for their healing properties where coughs and congestion are concerned. Herbs like echinacea and ginseng are helpful too, as is thyme. Yes, common garden thyme like you may have growing in your garden right now, is wonderful for treating a cough! Thymol, part of the essential oil of the herb, functions as an antiseptic and antibacterial agent. It helps thin the congestion in your lungs and makes coughs more productive. You definitely want more thyme in your life! (1, 2)
Homemade Syrup To Help Get The Mucus Out Of Your Lungs
If you are experiencing mucus buildup and chest congestion, try this easy recipe for thyme syrup. Thanks to the pleasant taste and the shortlist of all-natural ingredients, this is the perfect remedy for patients of almost any age! Note: honey is not appropriate for infants under 1 year!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 4 tbsp fresh or dried thyme
- 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup raw honey
Directions:
- Pour near-boiling water over fresh or dried thyme.
- Steep for 15 minutes and strain.
- Add the lemon and honey, and pour it into a glass jar.
- Store for up to one week in the fridge.
Dosage:
Take 1 to 2 tablespoons every 3-4 hours, as needed. (2)





