Steam Inhalation

In this week's challenge you must Inhale Steam . Steam inhalation is one of the most widely used home remedies to soothe and open the nasal passages and get relief from the symptoms of a cold or sinus infection. Steam inhalation won’t cure an infection, it may help make you feel a lot better while your body fights it off. Also called steam therapy, it involves the inhalation of water vapor. The warm, moist air is thought to work by loosening the mucus in the nasal passages, throat, and lungs. This may relieve symptoms of inflamed, swollen blood vessels in your nasal passages. The results of clinical studies have been mixed, anecdotal evidence claims steam inhalation helps alleviate headache, congested (stuffy) nose, throat irritation, breathing problems caused by airway congestion, dry or irritated nasal passages, cough.

Steam inhalation may provide some temporary relief from the symptoms of:

1. The common cold
2. The flu (influenza)
3. Sinus infections (infectious sinusitis)
4. Bronchitis
5. Nasal allergies

How to inhale steam:

1. You can also purchase an electric steam inhaler (also called a vaporizer) online or at a drugstore. For these, you just need to add water to the level indicated and plug in the system. The vaporizer uses electricity to make steam that cools before exiting the machine. Some vaporizers come with a built-in mask that fits around your mouth and nose. Add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil with water.


2. If you don’t have electric steam inhaler heat up the water to boiling. Carefully pour the hot water into the bowl. Add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil with water. Drape the towel over the back of your head. Turn on a timer. Shut your eyes and slowly lower your head toward the hot water until you’re about 8 to 12 inches away from the water. Be extremely careful to avoid making direct contact with the water. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose for at least two to five minutes.


3. Don’t steam longer than 10 to 15 minutes for each session. However, you can repeat steam inhalation two or three times per day

How to avoid burns:

1. Make sure the bowl of hot water is on a level, sturdy surface and can’t be knocked over.


2. Don’t shake or lean on the bowl.


3. Avoid allowing the steam to make contact with your eyes. Your eyes should be closed and directed away from the steam.
4. Keep the bowl of hot water out of reach of children or pets.

Suggested Reading:

Benefits of steam therapy - Learn more here.

Why inhaling essential oils is a good idea right now - Learn more here.