25 Best Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat In Adults & Kids That Work Naturally

Phlegm isn’t a serious health problem. But, phlegm clogs and irritates the bronchial tubes, causing a secondary upper respiratory infection if it isn’t treated timely. Dealing with this problem can be incredibly frustrating. But there are natural cures that work quickly and safely and without causing any side effect. Here, Effective Remedies will reveal to you the best home remedies for phlegm in throat in adults and kids that work naturally. Before discussing the remedies for phlegm in throat, have a detailed look at the phlegm, and its causes and symptoms.

• DIY homemade natural decongestant recipes
• Best home remedies for chest congestion in adults
• Best home remedies for strep throat relief in adults
• Best home remedies for sore throat pain

Top 25 Natural Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat In Adults & Kids

I. What Is Phlegm?

Phlegm is a thick & sticky fluid, and it is a type of mucus which is produced in the lower respiratory tract and lungs. It’s most noticeable when an individual is acutely sick or has a long-standing health disease. Mucus will help keep certain areas of the body from drying out and protect against invaders such as bacteria and viruses by forming a protective lining in these areas. However, an excess of mucus can be uncomfortable or distressed. Causes of excess mucus include:

• Allergies
• Infections such as the common cold and flu
• Digestive conditions
• Irritation of the throat, nose, or lungs
• Lung diseases, such as lung cancer, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cystic fibrosis
• Smoking tobacco products

II. Symptoms And Signs Of Phlegm

Below are the most symptoms and signs of phlegm:

• A runny nose
• A sinus headache
• Coughing up phlegm and mucus
• Nasal congestion
• Shortness of breath
• A congested and sore throat
• Frequent Coughing
• Bad breathe

III. Best Natural Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat In Adults & Kids

These are some of the natural and efficient ways to eliminate phlegm in the throat in adults and kids.

A. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Adults

1. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Apple Cider Vinegar

The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine notes that apple cider vinegar is highly beneficial for breaking up mucus in the body and calming the symptoms of allergy and chronic sinusitis. It serves as a natural decongestant since it is rich in potassium. This mineral aids in treating a runny nose. Besides, it is also full of natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, which work well in combating infections causing excessive phlegm production ^[1]. Its antiseptic properties are useful in battling a sinus infection and clearing mucus. Below are some methods to use ACV for phlegm in throat:

Method 1:

Get these:

• Apple cider vinegar – two teaspoons
• Honey for taste
• Warm water – one glass

Process:

Mix the apple cider vinegar with warm water and add some honey to improve the taste. Consume the mixture twice daily for quick relief.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Apple cider vinegar – half a cup
• Water – half a cup

Process:

Mix well the above ingredients and heat the mixture on one stove for six minutes. Then, remove the heat and start inhaling the steam with the eyes closed. Follow this remedy twice every day to get quick relief from the phlegm in throat.

Method 3:

Get these:

• Apple cider vinegar – two tablespoons
• Flaxseeds – ¼ cup
• Honey – one teaspoon

Process:

Take the ACV in a bowl and add the flaxseeds to it. Then, add the honey to the bowl. Finally, drizzle this resultant combination over your salad and enjoy.

2. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Garlic

Garlic is perfect for breaking down the buildup of phlegm, as it functions as a natural expectorant. Apart from that, the antimicrobial properties found in garlic are potent in destroying viral, bacterial, and fungal infections, which may cause the respiratory glands to release more phlegm ^[2]. Furthermore, it is a powerhouse of vitamin C that helps treat a cold and flu effectively.

Get these:

• Garlic cloves – 4
• Warm water – one cup

Process:

Firstly, crush the cloves of garlic and consume it with some warm water in every morning. Another option is chewing on some cloves of garlic. You can also add the garlic to sauces and soups. Or, you can sauté-steamed spinach with fresh lemon juice and garlic. Garlic in any form helps to clear the phlegm in the throat.

3. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Peppermint Oil Remedy

Peppermint oil is well known for its treatment of congestion. The essential oil contains menthol that embraces antispasmodic properties and is a natural expectorant ^[3]. Plus, the vapors from the oil can help break down the build-up of phlegm and relax the lung muscles. Along with that, its antibacterial effects can combat infections that cause excessive phlegm accumulation in the body ^[4]. Follow the steps below to use this oil for the condition:

Get these:

• Peppermint oil – 8 drops
• Steaming hot water – a bowl

Process:

At first, add the peppermint oil to the steaming hot water bowl. Bend over the bowl afterward and use a towel or blanket to cover the head. Start inhaling the steam deeply. For remarkable results, do the process one to two times daily.

4. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Turmeric

Are you searching for the natural home remedies for phlegm in throat? Turmeric can help you a lot. This yellow spice exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agents, which are helpful for fighting against various bacteria, fungi, and viruses ^[5]. It additionally aids in loosening the accumulation of phlegm in the throat and chest, thereby decongesting congested or obstructed airways. It further boosts the immune system.

Method 1:

Get these:

• Turmeric – one teaspoon
• Apple cider vinegar – one tablespoon
• Honey – one teaspoon
• Warm water – one glass

Process:

Add the turmeric and ACV to the warm water and stir well. Add the honey for flavor and drink this mixture on a daily basis. Try this remedy at least twice or thrice daily.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Turmeric – one teaspoon
• Hot milk – one glass

Process:

Add the prepared turmeric to the hot milk. Enjoy this mixture twice a day – once in the morning and once in the night before hitting the bed. You should follow this treatment regularly to remove the phlegm.

Method 3:

Get these:

• Turmeric – one tablespoon
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon
• Warm water – 1 glass

Process:

Make a solution by mixing the turmeric with salt and warm water. Then, gargle with this solution. Do the process about four times a day.

5. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Honey

Honey is one of the excellent home remedies for phlegm in throat. According to many studies, honey can help treat upper respiratory diseases such as a cough in children because it contains a medicinal property and an antibacterial activity ^[6]. It is also effective for preventing against phlegm and mucus accumulation, as it consists of expectorant and decongestant properties.

Get these:

• Honey – one tablespoon
• Pepper powder – a pinch

Process:

You need to mix the pepper powder and honey well. After that, have this mixture every day. Repeat this remedy once or thrice daily to get the significant results.

6. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Lemon Juice

As we know, lemon juice contains a high content of vitamin C that treats infections such as a common cold and whooping cough, both of which are accompanied by the overproduction of phlegm ^[7]. It also makes the mucus flow out quickly from the throat by loosening it. The vitamin C and antibacterial property in it are beneficial for improving the resistance of your body against various infections.

Method 1:

Get these:

• Lemon juice – two teaspoons
• Honey – one tablespoon
• Hot water – one glass

Process:

Mix the honey and lemon juice in hot water. Enjoy the mixture at least thrice daily to clear the phlegm in the throat.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Lemon slice – 1
• Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon

Process:

Cut a lemon slice and later sprinkle the salt and pepper on it. Then, suck this lemon slice twice to thrice a day.

7. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Pineapples

Pineapple exhibits an enzyme called bromelain that contains anti-inflammatory properties that can destroy bacteria and combat infection. Besides, it’s also a powerhouse of vitamin C, which is beneficial for calming symptoms of a cough and cold, thus clearing congestion caused due to the overproduction of phlegm. It further provides relief for a sore throat and helps the body expel mucus.

Get these:

• Pineapple
• Water – a cup

Process:

At first, blend ¼ of a pineapple with the water. Then, enjoy this juice at least one time every day. Also, chew on pineapple pieces.

8. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Cayenne Pepper

You should also include cayenne pepper in the list of the effective home remedies for phlegm. It also makes breathing easier when you’re suffering from a sinus infection, seasonal allergies, and a common cold.  It is highly effective for helping the body release the build-up of the mucus in the throat and nasal passages. Besides, its warm and stimulating nature can be perfect for reducing pain in the chest and soothing an irritated throat.

Get these:

• Cayenne pepper – one-fourth teaspoon
• Grated fresh ginger – one-fourth teaspoon
• Honey – one tablespoon
• Apple cider vinegar – one tablespoon
• Water – two tablespoons

Process:

Mix all the above components well. Then, consume this mixture this concoction twice to thrice every day. This mixture helps to decrease phlegm production. You can also add cayenne-pepper to cooking your dishes.

9. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Onion

Onion is ideal for relaxing your throat and treating phlegm because it comprises antibiotic, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory characteristics ^[8]. Other than this, onion also helps to promote the immunity and accelerate the healing process. Here’s how to use onion for phlegm treatment:

Get these:

• Small onion – 1
• Sugar – two tablespoons

Process:

The first step is to wash and finely chop the onion. The next step is tossing the onion with the sugar. Keep it aside for 30 minutes, and you have a liquid texture. Then, take a tbsp of the tonic every two hours or when needed. You can store the remaining of tonic in a refrigerator for two days.

10. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Use Licorice

Licorice can help to get rid of thick phlegm and mucus, as it comes with natural expectorant properties. Apart from that, it is also potent in alleviating irritated throat and inflamed lungs, and giving relief from a cough and chest congestion, as it possesses soothing properties.

Method 1:

Get these:

• Licorice root – one-half teaspoon
• Boiled water – a cup

Process:

Add the licorice root in the boiled water. Later cover and allow it to steep for 5 minutes. Then, strain and consume this drink to help the body expel excess mucus and phlegm. Repeat this natural remedy thrice a day.

Method 2:

Get these:

• Licorice powder- one-half teaspoon
• Ginger powder – one-half teaspoon
• Hot water – one glass

Process:

Add together the ginger powder and licorice powder in hot water. Next, stir it well and consume this blend two times in a day. People having problems with blood pressure don’t use this remedy.

11. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Carrots

Carrots are considered as one of the best natural home remedies for phlegm in throat and other similar conditions. They also help with the treatment of colds, coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and many kinds of respiratory issues. Plus, they contain a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C, which is useful in boosting the immune system and improving resistance to different kinds of infections. Along with that, they are also high in many vitamins and nutrients, which help to lower cough symptoms and phlegm.

Get these:

• Fresh carrots – four
• Honey – two to three teaspoons

Process:

Extract the juice from the fresh carrots and dilute it by adding a little water. Add the honey to it and mix well. After that, have this juice throughout the day.

12. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Eucalyptus Oil

This oil can loosen up mucus since it holds tannin that works as an astringent. It also serves as a natural expectorant. Apart from that, apply this oil to the throat and chest will help alleviate cough symptoms from the flu or common cold ^[9].

Get these:

• Eucalyptus oil – ¼ teaspoon
• Coconut oil – one tablespoon

Process:

Firstly, line your upper chest region by applying the coconut oil. Then, rub the eucalyptus oil over the lining. This way assists in loosening phlegm from the throat.

13. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Anise Seeds

Anise seeds are an effective expectorant, which is useful for loosening phlegm in the respiratory tract. They are also beneficial for breaking up and pushing our mucus from your throat. Besides, they are used as a natural cough suppressant.

Get these:

• Anise seeds (crushed) – one teaspoon
• Honey – 2 cups
• Water – 1 ½ cups

Process:

Add the seeds to the boiling water and leave it to boil for thirty minutes on low flame. Strain and simmer the rest of liquid until it reduces to a cup. Mix the honey in it and leave it to cool. Afterward, consume this mixture regularly for visible results.

14. Use Mint Leaves And Eucalyptus Leaves

Mint leaves can assist you in treating the phlegm in the throat. It also helps to expel mucus from the throat and works as an expectorant. The leaves also help to eliminate inflammation and the respiratory tract thanks to their anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Eucalyptus leaves can treat various diseases such as cold, respiratory infections, coughs, sore throats, fevers, asthma, and more. They also rid the body of mucus.

Get these:

• Mint leaves – 6
• Eucalyptus leaves – 4
• Water – 8 cups
• A big pot – 1

Process:

Pour the water in the big pot and later pour the mint and eucalyptus leaves in it. Bring it to a boil for ten minutes. Remove from the heat and then place on the platform. Bend the face forward towards the pot to inhale the water vapors. Follow this process once daily for one week.

15. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat – Basil Leaves

Basil leaves are rich in antioxidants and contain antibacterial properties. They are effective for eliminating the thickened phlegm from your body. Along with that, their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties can assist quick recovery from the problem of a cough.

Get these:

• Fresh basil leaves – 20
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Water – 1 cup
• Honey – one teaspoon
• Grated fresh ginger – ½ teaspoon

Process:

Boil the water at first and later add the basil leaves, freshly grated ginger and black pepper. Allow the mixture to boil for five minutes and strain it. Add the honey for taste and have this mixture two or three times daily.

B. Home Remedies For Phlegm In Throat In Kids

1. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Honey

According to pediatrician & author William Sears, honey is more effective at getting rid of the phlegm than OTC decongestants. Give 1/2 teaspoon of honey for every 25 lbs. of weight. You can give your kid about four times daily in the correct usage for her or his weight. Kids under the age of two shouldn’t eat honey because a microorganism in it can cause health issues in young children.

2. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper can work effectively on dealing with phlegm in the throat ^[10]. You can sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne in the hand of your child and let him or her swallow it. Very young children should avoid using this remedy.

3. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Water

Water is an effective decongestant and helps the body remove infection and phlegm more quickly.  Encourage your kid to avoid sodas and sugary juices and to consume six to eight glasses of water every day.

4. Home Remedies For Phlegm – Lemon Juice

Lemon juice works well for the treatment of congestion caused due to the common cold, laryngitis, and flu. But this remedy is ineffective strep throat and tonsillitis. You can give your child one teaspoon of this juice every three hours. Ensure that she or he consumes a glass of water after each lemon juice dose since lemon juice can dehydrate children.

IV. Prevention Tips

It is best to follow the following preventive tips to help in your recovery from congestion and phlegm.

• Drink plenty of water (about eight glasses) a day.
• Consume spicy foods and have hot fluids to help loosen the mucus.
• Limit or reduce exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, chemicals or paint that can increase the phlegm in the body and lead to an allergic reaction.
• Avoid consumption of meat, fried foods, and dairy products, as they may increase mucus production.
• Use one humidifier to help curb the mucus production.
• Avoid consumption of cold drinks and foods.
• Blow your nose frequently to expel the phlegm.
• Stay away from smoking since it can cause congestion and irritate the respiratory system.
• Don’t swallow the phlegm in the throat. Instead, you need spit it out to encourage the healing process.

V. When To See A Doctor

You might want to check with a doctor if uncomfortable phlegm regularly occurs. There are a few health conditions that may lead to a buildup of phlegm, such as acid reflux, asthma, chronic bronchitis, allergies, and other lung diseases. Contact a doctor if the problem of phlegm lasts for one month or longer. Let your doctor know if you see symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, and wheezing.

These tips and natural remedies will work wonders in promoting your recovery. These treatments are simple, instantaneous, effective, and extremely budget friendly. You should follow them regularly to fight against the phlegm. Also, let us know if you know any of other home remedies for phlegm in the throat in adults and kids. Visit our Home Remedies category to learn more about natural treatments for other health and beauty conditions.