Breathing comes so naturally to us that most of us don’t appreciate the ease with which we do it until we get a cold. Having a stuffed nose can be the worst feeling when you have a busy day. More than anything else, it can get very annoying when you’re trying to go about your day feeling like there’s something in your nose that you just can’t get out.

We think that it is mucus blocking the nasal pathway but what really happens is that when you get a cold, that part of your nose is inflamed and so the tissues there swell up. Mucus just makes the whole thing worse. However, there are a few easy tips you can work with to make yourself feel better.

1. Steamer

A handy machine that boils water and has an aperture on top to let out steam; all you have to do is take all that steam in. The warmth will soothe your stuffed nose and leave your nasal pathway feeling clearer.

2. A Warm Bath

Much like the steamer, taking a nice, steaming bath will help you feel better. The steam that you will take in while bathing will unblock your nose. Also, a hot bath when it is cold outside is never a bad thing.

3. Stay Hydrated

When you are sick, your body temperature rises and you have to bring it back to a stable level. Drinking a lot of water will make your body cool down and prevent your nose from becoming stuffy. It will also give you some relief if your nose is already blocked.

4. Hot Pack

Simply soak a clean piece of cloth in some hot water, wring it out and keep it on your forehead. This age old trick is very effective when it comes to relieving a blocked nose or soothing an allergic reaction.

5. Basil

Eat some fresh basil when you wake up and before you go to sleep when you feel nasal congestion beginning to set in.

6. Chicken Soup

The healing effects of soup are not just an old wife’s tale. A bowl of hot soup when you’re down with the cold can really pepper you up.

7. Eucalyptus

Popular for its health benefits, just mix a couple drops of eucalyptus oil into your bath water to maximize its effects. You can also put a few drops on a hanky and keep it near your nose when you go off to sleep.

8. Honey

When your nose is badly congested, just combine two teaspoons of honey and some warm water. Drink this two times a day and not only will your nose feel better, but your immunity will also be stronger.

9. Spice

Eating food with a lot of spice in it will make your nose clear right up. All the mucus which has collected in your nose will melt and you can just blow into a tissue to get it out. The effects of this won’t last very long but you’ll feel better for a while.

10. Onions

Hold a peeled onion close to your nose for about a quarter of an hour and you’ll definitely start breathing easier.

11. Vicks

A product that actually works as advertised, rub some Vicks on affected areas like your chest and neck and the mucus will start dissolving. You can also apply it on your feet and wear socks to get the most out of it.

12. Garlic

Not only is garlic delicious, but it can also soothe your nasal congestion. Steam some garlic and inhale the vapors to clear your nose. Consuming a couple of uncooked cloves before breakfast everyday can also make your immune system stronger.

Stay healthy, stay happy!