Upper respiratory infections (URIs) involve the throat, nose, pharynx, sinuses, and larynx. These infections are contagious and are usually difficult to treat. Some common upper respiratory infections include a sore throat, nasal obstruction, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and the common cold. These infections are usually caused by viruses, so they can easily spread from one person to another. However, fungi or bacteria can also be responsible for URIs. You can try upper respiratory infection home remedies to deal with viral infections because antibiotics are not going to offer much relief. Let's find out more about it.

Best Home Remedies for Upper Respiratory Infection

These infections can cause many symptoms, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, a running nose, postnasal drip, a sore throat, muscle aches, a mild fever, breathing difficulty, and mild fatigue. You can try some home remedies to help relieve these symptoms.

1.    Use Salt Water

Salt water can help eliminate germs and bacteria from your throat. Therefore, gargling with salt water may improve cold symptoms. Gargling with salt water on a regular basis may actually prevent URIs. It also helps relieve nasal congestion and sore throat. It also works effectively to loosen mucus, which makes it easier to expel it. Simply take a glass of warm water and add a teaspoon of salt to it. Use it to gargle for a few minutes. Then, swish it around your throat and mouth and spit out.

2.    Inhale Some Steam

The idea is quite the same as in gargling with saltwater. Steam inhalation helps loosen mucus that contains allergen or bacteria. It is easy to eliminate bacteria when you can get rid of mucus. It also helps improve certain symptoms, such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. It also proves effective because it lubricates your respiratory tract and reduces irritation. Simply take a small tub and fill it up with water. Now, add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to it. Use a towel to cover your head, bend over the bowl, and take slow, deep breaths to inhale steam. Do it several times a day for good results.

3.    Try Vapor Rub

This old-fashioned ointment is still one of the best upper respiratory infection home remedies. Its smell may be a bit strong, but can certainly help reduce cold symptoms, especially in children. A couple of applications before bedtime can help open air passages and reduce symptoms, such as coughing and congestion. Do not use it for children younger than 2 years old to avoid any unwanted side effects.

4.    Try Ginger

Ginger can help prevent and treat URIs. With its strong antibacterial and antiviral properties, it works amazing well to treat viral infections. Moreover, ginger also has diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. It also boosts your immune system and makes it easier for your body to clear the infection. You can simply chew on a piece of ginger sprinkled with salt for relief or make ginger tea with some salt added to it.

5.    Enjoy Some Chicken Soup

Homemade chicken soup provides you with a number of important nutrients and vitamins that support your immune system and help clear the infection. An amino acid, cysteine, in chicken increases the production of glutathione that has antioxidant properties and accelerates the healing process. Make some chicken soup at home and enjoy it at least twice a day. Be sure to add some garlic and ginger to the soup to make it even more effective.

6.    Take Warm Baths

If your child has an upper respiratory infection, giving them a sponge bath may help. You can also take warm baths in case you are looking for one of the best upper respiratory infection home remedies. To make your bath even more effective, simply add some baking soda and Epsom salt to it. Soaking in it will help reduce body aches as well. For a soothing effect, add a few drops of rosemary, juniper, tea tree, lavender, orange, thyme, or eucalyptus essential oils to your bathtub.

7.    Opt for Honey

Honey has antibacterial and antiviral properties, so you can rely on it to treat your URIs. It also contains antioxidants, which is why it is beneficial for your immune system. Take a glass of lukewarm water and add a teaspoon of honey and the juice of one lemon to it. Mix well and drink twice a day. Be sure to avoid this remedy if your child is younger than 1 year.

8.    Drink Licorice Tea

Licorice tea is also among the simplest upper respiratory infection home remedies. All you have to do is boil a small piece of licorice root in water. Once done, strain it and drink it slowly. It will soothe your irritated throat and relieve other symptoms at the same time.

9.    Use Eucalyptus Leaves

Another good way to deal with your URIs is to use eucalyptus leaves. Take a few of these leaves and add to boiling water. Let it boil for a few minutes and then inhale the steam. It proves extremely effective against throat pain and nasal congestion.

10.   Drink Some Onion Juice

Onion juice may also help treat URIs effectively. Take three teaspoons of onion juice and add a teaspoon of honey to it. Drink it slowly to find some relief from your annoying symptoms.

11.   Get Plenty of Rest

Like other viral infections, it is important to give your body ample rest and time to clear upper respiratory infections. Take a blanket to keep yourself warm and take some good rest. Getting enough sleep is also important to accelerate your recovery.