Phlegm is mucus produced by the respiratory system due to factors such as climate, a weakened immune system, and genetics. Understanding effective methods to clear phlegm can help you easily expel it from your throat. Let's learn about ways to clear phlegm for adults in the article below.
1. Overview of a Phlegmy Cough
Phlegm is mucus formed in the respiratory tract lining and has varying viscosity depending on the disease. When healthy, physiological mucus is secreted onto the respiratory tract lining protecting it and providing a liquid environment for the cilia. This system helps remove dust and dirt trapped in the overlying mucus layer via the cough reflex. Coughing is the body's reflex to remove irritants and pathogens from the respiratory tract through the nose and mouth. A phlegmy cough involves coughing accompanied by secretions from the alveoli, bronchi, or throat. Normally, about 100 ml of phlegm is secreted per 24 hours and eliminated through the digestive tract or nose and throat. Cough with phlegm is classified as acute or chronic; coughs lasting more than three weeks are considered chronic. Causes include rhinopharyngitis, colds, acute sinusitis, and laryngitis. Persistent phlegmy coughs may indicate serious conditions such as tuberculosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
2. How to Treat Phlegm in Adults
Some ways to treat phlegm in adults are as follows:
2.1. Steam
Steaming is an effective way to treat phlegm. The heat and moisture from the steam can penetrate the throat, loosen the phlegm, and facilitate its removal. You can use steam at home as follows:
• Steam bath: Use hot water for baths twice a day. Ensure the bathroom is hot enough and remain there for about 10 minutes to help thin the phlegm. After bathing, moisturize your body with natural essential oils to help reduce dry skin.
• Bowl steaming: Pour boiling water into a bowl, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. This method helps to quickly and effectively loosen phlegm.
2.2. Use salt water
Salt water is a useful remedy to help clear phlegm. In addition, salt water also helps reduce the feeling of dryness in the throat, kills bacteria, treats infections, and prevents the risk of phlegm buildup. You can use this method by preparing a cup of warm water, adding an appropriate amount of salt, and gargling daily.
2.3. Lemon
Lemon is a fruit offering many health benefits, especially for treating phlegm and mucus. Its vitamin C content helps eliminate and destroy disease-causing bacteria. You can use lemon in the following phlegm-reducing remedies:
• Mix lemon juice with a small amount of honey in a cup of warm water, stir well, and drink several times a day.
• Use thinly sliced lemon combined with salt and pepper, and gargle 2–3 times a day.
2.4. Ginger
In traditional medicine, ginger is a medicinal herb with good nasal decongestant, antiseptic, and sore throat-reducing properties. In addition, ginger is also antibacterial, expectorant, and antiviral, helping ease breathing. Use ginger in the following remedies: Use a few fresh ginger slices in a cup of boiling water, steep for a few minutes, add a few drops of honey, and drink 2–3 times a day. Or you can chew ginger directly or use it in daily meals.
2.5. Turmeric
Turmeric contains active ingredients that are good antioxidants, antibacterial, expectorants, and effectively improving the immune system. The methods of using turmeric to treat phlegm are as follows:
• Use a cup of hot milk with a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Drink this every morning and evening.
• Use ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder with a cup of hot water. Drink this two to three times a day, morning and evening.
• Use a cup of hot water with a small amount of turmeric powder and a little salt. Gargle several times a day for increased effectiveness.
2.6. Chili powder
Cayenne pepper helps loosen and reduce phlegm in the nose and throat. Additionally, cayenne pepper's heat reduces chest and lung congestion and soothes throat irritation. Combine cayenne pepper with apple cider vinegar, water, honey, and ginger to treat phlegm. Drink the mixture two to three times daily.
2.7. Honey
Honey offers many health benefits, including antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties; it also helps loosen phlegm and soothe sore throats. Honey's antiseptic effect protects, boosts the immune system, and fights infection. Mix honey with warm water and drink it daily to treat phlegm.
2.8. Using eucalyptus essential oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is warm and has an expectorant effect on the respiratory tract. It helps soothe coughs. You can use a diffuser to disperse the essential oil into the air.
Additionally, eucalyptus essential oil can be used to massage the chest and neck, helping expel phlegm from the respiratory tract.
Hopefully, the above information has helped you gain useful knowledge for effectively treating phlegm If the above measures are ineffective, consult a medical professional for examination and treatment.
Follow the Vinmec International General Hospital website to learn more about health, nutrition, and beauty to protect the health of yourself and your loved ones.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
