Feeling Stuffed Up? Try These 6 Natural Remedies to Ease Congestion

You've surely heard about and possibly tried a salt water gargle as a remedy for a sore throat. Turns out a sinus rinse with a salt water solution can have a similar effect in easing nasal congestion.

Jennifer Boozer, DO, clinical assistant professor of family medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, recommends doing it two to three times a day when you're feeling stuffed-up. "This is a very safe and effective way to help clear congestion," she told POPSUGAR.

Research has long shown that most beverages can help to loosen congestion and prevent dehydration — just be sure to avoid caffeine and alcohol.

"Remember that fluids such as water, flavored water, tea, milk, or even juice can all count toward hydration," said Brett Singer, RD, a sports dietitian at the Memorial Hermann Ironman Sports Institute in Houston. "Focus on water primarily, but if other fluids are needed on occasion to promote consumption, it's OK to include those as well."

Chicken soup as a cold remedy isn't a myth — research has shown that hot fluids can help open up the sinuses and ease congestion. "Warm fluids such as chicken soup or hot tea provide a moist environment to help loosen congestion, similar to the feeling you may get being around a hot shower," Singer said.