Alternative health solutions for a stuffy nose

If you're struggling with a stuffy, congested nose, you might be looking for an alternative to many over-the-counter decongestants. Options such as do-it-yourself nasal sprays, herbs and homeopathic remedies may provide you with relief. Also, if your symptoms don't subside or even get worse, it's important to know when you should call your doctor.

Alternative remedies

To relieve your stuffy nose, make a homemade nasal spray. "The Doctors' Book of Home Remedies for Women" by Sharon Faelten says that a nasal spray with only water can actually dry your nose out. Add a half teaspoon of salt and a pinch of baking soda to a cup of lukewarm water. Spritz the solution in your nose a few times using a child-sized bulb syringe. Then, blow your nose. If you don't want to make your own spray, you could also purchase a plain saline spray at the drugstore.

In addition to using a homemade nasal spray, a hot, steamy shower can relieve congestion. While showering make sure all bathroom fans are off to make sure you get the full benefit of the steam.

Check to see if you have any hot pepper flakes or ground cayenne pepper at home. Hot pepper should put an instant end to your congestion. Add hot pepper flakes to dishes you prepare at home, or consider trying a spicy Indian curry at a local restaurant.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), bitter orange is a traditional Chinese medicine used for nasal congestion and a wide variety of ailments. You can take the dried fruit and its peel by mouth in extracts, capsules and tablets.

If you're interested in a homeopathic solution, ABC Homeopathy says that Pulsatilla Nigricans helps relieve a sense of fullness in the nose and the snuffles as well. Homeopathic supplements generally come as small white pellets. Take 1-2 pellets every 15-30 minutes until your symptoms are relieved.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if you're congestion is chronic or if it's accompanied by itching or sneezing. This could indicate an allergy. Also, seek a doctor's help if you experience green or yellow discharge, foul-smelling phlegm, fever, persistent cough or severe headaches and facial pain.