Nasal polyps are small teardrop-shaped growths that form in sinuses and the lining of our noses. The growth is neither malignant nor cancerous. However, it can obstruct airways, leading to congestion and headaches. It can lead to excess formation of mucus and result in a constant runny nose. Some can even experience loss of smell and taste. It is not a serious condition, and medication, nasal sprays, and surgery are required if you experience severe symptoms.

Most nasal polyps need no treatment. You can find relief from symptoms of nasal polyps by resorting to the following simple and natural techniques.

1. Stay hydrated
Adequate hydration helps to thin and loosen the extra mucus formed due to nasal polyps. Hydration also ensures that the mucus is drained from the nose and sinuses. Develop a habit to track the amount of water you drink and aim for about eight glasses of water. You can substitute one or two glasses of water with milk or fruit juices. Avoid sugary drinks and go in for freshly squeezed fruit juice. Avoid alcohol and caffeine drinks as they can dehydrate you.

2. Steaming
Steaming has been an effective remedy for centuries to clear nasal blockage. You can inhale steam either during a long hot shower or by inhaling hot steam from a bowl of water. Heat water in a bowl till you can see the steam. Place the bowl on a counter, away from your body, at a comfortable height. Use a thick fabric or towel to cover your head and the bowl and inhale the steam. It can help clear your airways and bring relief. However, steaming will not shrink or make polyps disappear.

3. Pillow stacks
A good night’s sleep on our backs is comfortable and restful, but this prevents mucus from draining. It will lead to congestion and disturb your sleep. Stack two or three pillows so that your head is higher and the mucus can drain easily.

4. Nasal irrigation
Along with hydration, nasal rinse or nasal irrigation is an accepted natural treatment for nasal polyps. It is a process where you flush out the sinuses, relieving you of the symptoms. You can get bottles or Neti pots specially designed for nasal irrigation from pharmacies and supermarkets. Ensure that the tools are clean and sterile before use. You can also use nasal sprays that contain capsaicin for irrigation.

5. Essential oils
The following essential oils can help improve symptoms of nasal polyps:

• Eucalyptus oil is rich in antibacterial properties and a compound called cineol, which can help people with nasal polyps.
• Tea tree oil has properties that reduce itching and inflammation.
• Peppermint oil has abundant menthol that can serve as a decongestant.

Dilute a drop of any of the above essential oils with a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or sweet almond oils and gently apply it directly on the polyps. Add 12 drops of the oil to about half a liter of water for steam inhalation to relieve nasal polyp symptoms. If you have a diffuser at your home, you can add a few drops to the device.