Steam inhalation is quite a common home remedy adopted in order to soothe and open up nasal passages. Steam therapy involves breathing in steam from a bowl or pot of heated water. This simple method helps immensely to get relief from flu-like symptoms of a sinus infection or a cold.
Is Steaming a Cure for an Infection?
Steam inhalation is not a cure for the flu or any other type of infection. Immunity does most of the bulk work in order to get rid of the virus thatтАЩs causing the symptoms. However, what the steam inhalation procedure does is makes you feel better and helps your ability to breathe as the body fights off the infection.
When the moist, warm air enters the nasal passage, it loosens up the thickened mucus all the way up to the throat and lungs. Steam therapy relieves symptoms of swollen blood vessels within the nasal passages.
Steam Inhalation for the Lungs
Steam therapy tends to have a relaxing effect on oneтАЩs respiratory system. The humid, hot air soothes inflamed vessels and makes it easier to breathe. Those who suffer from asthma, especially, have extremely swollen airways and the effort it takes to breathe irritates the lungs and the airways. Steam is an expectorant that opens up the airways, temporarily alleviates symptoms of inflammation, and prevents the mucus membranes from becoming too dry.
Here are three reasons why steam inhalation for cough is beneficial for you:
1. Helps Reduce Inflammation
Asthma, bronchitis and short-term infections cause inflammation throughout the airways and the lungs. Dry airways, coughing and harsh breathing cause irritation and friction that leads to inflammation as the body struggles. The swollen tissues cause more inflammation and irritation in the most uncomfortable cycle which is interrupted by the steam therapy that provides moist, warm air that is easier to breathe.
2. Helps Improve Circulation
Steam therapy goes above and beyond just soothing the airways. It is a whole-body treatment that helps to boost blood circulation. The body reacts to heat by dilating the blood vessels. This elevates circulation in the following ways:
- When blood vessels dilate, the body easily eliminates carbon dioxide by transporting it to the lungs and expelling it from the body.
- As the blood vessels enlarge, the blood pressure temporarily goes down and the heart receives a signal that propels it to pump faster. As the circulation improves, the oxygen is now able to travel more easily to the blood vessels from the lungs.
3. Helps Induce Relaxation
The steam inhalation helps in muscle relaxation and subsequent loosening of the tension as the heat penetrates deep into the muscles. Cortisol is a stress hormone that tightens muscle, increases anxiety levels and wreaks havoc on the body system. Steam therapy can slow down the production of cortisol.
Steam treatments boost the production of endorphins which makes the body feel rested and restored.
Procedure for Steam Inhalation
The steam inhalation procedure is quite simple and can be easily done at home with or without the aid of equipment. So, to carry out your steam routine with precaution to prevent any kind of burns, here is what you should do:
- Find a large vessel like a bowl or a mug if you do not have a vaporiser at home.
- If you are not using a vaporiser, boil the water either in the microwave or kettle.
- Alternatively, you can fill a basin with warm water, set a timer for a few minutes, and place a towel over your head.
- Position the head about 12 inches above the water and keep the eyes closed.
- Inhale slowly, deep breathing the steam for about two-five minutes, changing the hot water every 2-3 minutes.
- Depending on the severity of your condition, you may repeat the session two-three times daily.
- For an effective decongestant, you may add a few drops of mentholated ointment or tea tree oil.
- Alternatively, you can also boil a few ingredients like carom seeds, tulsi leaves, pudina leaves, and 1 tbsp. of turmeric and inhale this water.
Conclusion
Steam inhalation for cough relief during a cold or flu is a very popular and easy-to-do home remedy. Steam inhalation eases discomfort associated with severe congestion, induces sleep at night, relieves voice hoarseness, improves blood circulation, and promotes overall wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steam Inhalation
Q. Is steaming good for you if you are suffering from the flu?
Yes, steaming is an expectorant that opens the nasal passage alleviating the discomfort associated with a blocked sinus infection.
Q. Is steam inhalation good for the lungs?
Yes, steam inhalation has a relaxing effect on the respiratory system, and promotes overall wellness. The benefits of steam inhalation for the lungs can be further enhanced by adding natural herbs to the boiling water.
Q. What are some benefits of steaming for the lungs?
Steam inhalation loosens the mucous within the throat, lungs and nasal passages and relieves symptoms of swollen blood vessels.
Q. What can I add to the steam when I am down with the flu?
When you are down with a cold and flu, you can add a few natural herbs or essential oils like a few drops of tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and peppermint oil to help ease symptoms of cough and soothe an irritated throat.