The mucus membrane releases a sticky fluid which protects the epithelial tissue, which covers the respiratory and many other internal organs and parts, from germs and micro organisms. Mucus is good and healthy for the body.

Mucus helps in protecting the sensitive tissues from various infections. However, excessive mucus causes irritation especially if you are suffering from a sinus infection. Excess of mucus usually signifies infection or can be the underlying symptom of any other disease.

Home Remedies For Excess Mucous

Water Intake

This is by far the simplest and the most effective way to get rid of excessive mucus. To reduce the density of the mucus it is important that you drink lots and lots of water. You may have noticed yourself that thin mucus gets easily secreted from the nose and throat. Easy and constant removal of excess mucus also removes harmful micro organisms and dust particles with it.

Steam Inhalation

Another quick and easy way to loosen up thick mucus is steam inhalation. Steam helps in loosening up the mucus and you can easily blow it out from your nose. This method is especially suggested for those who suffer from asthma or sinus problems.

Hot Soup

Drinking hot soup helps in reducing the irritation in the throat and loosens up the mucus. The soup should be clear and non spicy. Chicken broth is said to be good in treating mucus related problems.

Turmeric

Turmeric is an effective antibacterial that shields the body against respiratory problems. Take a glassful of lukewarm milk and add one teaspoon of turmeric powder, mix well and drink twice for best results.

Onions

Onions helps in clearing excessive mucus buildup in the body. Grate some onions and squeeze the same to separate the juice. Have one teaspoon of onion juice first thing in the morning to ease the mucus buildup.

Gargle with Salt Water

This is one of the most common ways to clear mucus buildup and other throat problems. Take a glassful of lukewarm water and add one teaspoon salt in it. Gargle two to three times in a day with this salt water for fast relief.

Eucalyptus essential oil

Simply add two to four drops of eucalyptus essential oil in your handkerchief and sniff the vapors. Eucalyptus oil acts as a naturally occurring expectorant and helps in reducing the mucus buildup.

Ginger Honey

This is a known natural home remedy which is extremely helpful in releasing excessive mucus buildup. Grate some ginger and squeeze out about one teaspoon of ginger juice. Take one teaspoon honey and add the ginger juice to it. Warm this mix a little and drink the same. Drink this natural mix right before sleeping at night to get a good night sleep.

Basil

Make a decoction by taking basil leaves, black pepper and ginger in equal quantities to get rid of excessive mucus. Another way to use basil leaves to treat excessive mucus is by crushing them, mixing them in honey and eating about one teaspoon of this mix three times in a day.

Photo Credit: Homeremediestalk.com/2011/09/home-remedies-for-chest-congestion/