Inhale correctly when you have a cold

When sore throats, coughs and colds have a firm grip on the airways, inhaling properly can help. This tried and tested home remedy for colds is simple and effective, moisturizes the mucous membranes, loosens stuck secretions and thus provides quick relief from symptoms. And here's how to do it right:

Bei Erkältungen sind Dampfbäder mit ätherischen Ölen sehr empfehlenswert© Fotolia/Bernd Leitner
Steam baths with essential oils are highly recommended for colds

Correct inhalation is good for bronchitis

Water and salt are the best for this illness. This solution makes stuck mucus fluid, making it much easier to cough up. Another advantage: it has no side effects. It is best to use normal table salt, not iodized or fluoride salt, as this could irritate the mucous membranes. The dose: nine grams of salt to one liter of water.

Just not too hot

Place the pot of water on a table, then bend over it with the towel over your head so that the towel encloses the bowl. The water should not be hotter than 80 degrees, otherwise you could easily burn your airways.

Correct inhalation with essential oils

For inflammation of the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat), inhaling correctly with essential oils of eucalyptus, mountain pine or spruce needles (e.g. Pinimenthol, pharmacy) helps. They loosen stuck mucus and can also be helpful for sinusitis. However, you should dose exactly according to the instructions to avoid skin irritation. However, these cold remedies are taboo for asthma patients, as they can trigger an attack.

Breathe through your mouth

Experts recommend inhaling for ten to 20 minutes. Inhaling correctly means always breathing in through the mouth and out through the nose, otherwise the nose will swell up.