Benefits Of Inhaling Steam

Benefits of Inhaling Steam

Inhaling steam is a natural remedy that is used for easing chest congestion and also nasal congestion. It is very easy to do and you can perform it at home. Steam inhalation provides many benefits as illustrated below.

1. Respiratory benefits

Inhaling steam is a great treatment for respiratory complications and is recommended for dealing with common cold, flu, bronchitis, sinusitis, asthma and allergies. It works through relieving congestion and inflammation of mucous membranes. It also alleviates spasmodic breathing and throat irritation through moistening air.

2. Natural expectorant

The inhalation of steam for a short period of about half an hour significantly benefits the lungs and throat through by acting like an effective natural expectorant. This helps to relax muscles, thereby relieving coughing. Inhaling steam is also necessary for preventing excessive drying of the mucous membranes.

3. Treats viral colds

Nasal steam inhalation has been suggested as a cure for viral colds based on the notion that enhanced intranasal temperature is going to stop duplication of rhinovirus. In fact, certain chemical trials observing the effects of steam inhalation on viral colds have found it to be effective. Patients have also displayed great improvements in their symptoms when their medications are combined with steam inhalation.

4. Simple to prepare

Another huge benefit of inhaling steam is that the inhalations are very simple to prepare. Many people opt to add a couple of drops of essential oils to enhance the benefits of steam inhalation. Inhaling essential oils like steam vapors offers protection from various respiratory ailments and also soothes the respiratory tract. The most effective oils recommended for use when inhaling steam are the ones that possess strong detoxifying and decongestant effects.

Some individuals have experienced side effects like nausea, dizziness and headaches following steam inhalation. People with respiratory conditions should first seek medical assistance before inhaling steam so as to avoid further complications.