Steaming is one of the most age-old practices which is usually followed earlier traditionally to relieve respiratory issues. On the onset of cough and cold, the first home remedy that we majorly hope on is, to use the steam inhalation technique at home. Steam inhalation certainly has a positive impact on the symptoms of cough and cold, even when the medicines are out of stock from your commonly stocked medicine cabinet. It is easy for most of us to recall the experience of our moms often recommending to use of the steam inhalation method for comfort and soothing relief.
Steam inhalation is considered effective in supporting respiratory well-being while alleviating a range of respiratory concerns. It is one of the therapeutic ways to indulge in a holistic approach to respiratory health as inhaling steam helps ease nasal congestion, unblocks air passages, and makes a soothing breathing experience for individuals dealing with respiratory allergies, colds, or sinusitis.
Here we have the list of all the health benefits of steam inhalation.
- Clears congestion
While using the steam inhalation process at home, you can immediately see noticeable benefits while experiencing clear chest and nasal congestion. On steam inhalation, the warm, and moist air enters the respiratory passages to loosen mucus and phlegm. Hence, it is highly beneficial for someone who is already suffering from a cold, respiratory allergies, or sinusitis as it effectively soothes the breathing experience.
- Relieves sinusitis
Sinusitis is a condition where an individual is suffering from inflammation over the sinus cavities. Some of the symptoms of sinusitis are difficulty or pressure while breathing through the nose or facial pain. Steam inhalation is comparatively effective in dealing with such symptoms with ease, hence it is highly recommended by doctors to soothe irritated sinus tissues. On inhaling steam, the moist steam facilitates the drainage of mucus while bringing down pressure and inflammation. You can escalate the impact of steam inhalation by adding a few drops of essential oils, such as peppermint, or eucalyptus to reap therapeutic effects.
- Soothes sore throat
Inhaling steam helps in soothing sore throat. While using inhaling steam, it moistens and soothes the throat, enabling it to alleviate irritation and discomfort caused by cold or cough. You can also add a pinch of salt to the hot steaming water and inhale as salt helps to subside irritated and inflamed throat tissues.
- Promotes lung health
Steam inhalation is not only effective in soothing the upper respiratory tract but also helps soothe the lungs. You can inhale moist and warm air through steam inhalation to de-congest the airways and bronchial tubes while making it easy for you to breathe. Hence, this technique is also effective and beneficial for individuals with conditions like bronchitis and asthma.
- Enhances overall respiratory health
Regularly indulging in the steam inhalation process helps contribute to overall strengthened respiratory health. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining moisture in the respiratory passages, while preventing the passages from drying out, despite climate changes.
Helpful tips to consider while indulging in steam therapy
Although steam inhalation has various benefits for the respiratory system, it is important to conduct safe practices to avoid any kind of potential risks.
- Always use clean, and purified water to conduct a steam session at home.
- Let the water cool down slightly before you begin inhaling to avoid any spills or burns.
- Ensure to maintain a safe distance from the steam machine or vessel to prevent accidental splashing.
- Make sure to use steam inhaling while covering your head for effective results.
- You should inhale deeply but be gentle while doing it at home.
- Avoid inhaling too much at once.
- Cautiously use essential oil, as it may react with individuals who are sensitive or allergic to particular essential oils.
