· Eucalyptus oil – Studies have found that eucalyptus oil relieves nasal congestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. The best way to administer this oil is through a steam process. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of steaming water. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in the steam for about 10 minutes.

· Apple cider vinegar – This may sound unappetizing at first, but this tea is rich in nutrients and is good for immunity and overall health. Use two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of honey, and mix in warm water. Drink this two or three times a day for at least several days.

· Spicy foods – Eat very spicy foods loaded with ginger, garlic, onion and red chili. These hot foods will get your nasal passages running and help clear some of the pressure out of your sinuses.

· Peppermint tea – This tea thins mucus and opens up the nasal passages. Peppermint combines menthol, warm water and steam to improve the flow of mucus out of the sinuses and nostrils.

When to Contact Your Health Care Provider

Contact your physician if your congestion lasts for more than a week. “A viral infection usually goes away on its own within a week or so, but an infection that lasts longer is often bacterial and may require an antibiotic,” Stringer says. And you don’t want to be miserable longer than necessary, right? But due to the over-prescription of antibiotics, question your doctor as to the appropriateness of this course of treatment; don’t insist on them. Try some of these home remedies. You may finally find some relief from the pain and congestion of that nasty, stuffed-up nose.