Causes of phlegm in throat

The presence of phlegm in throat is usually due to a microbial infection or an allergic reaction. Phlegm builds up in the throat as a result of infections like sore throat, cough, bronchitis, and other such infections. Phlegm in throat and respiratory tract is not a serious condition and is curable.

Phlegm contains chemicals that helps protect the body against microbial attack, thereby preventing any strain on immune system. It engulfs the incoming infectious microbes and prevents their attack. However, phlegm stuck in throat could cause immense discomfort and irritation.

It can block the opening to the digestive tract, thereby making it difficult to swallow food. Phlegm can also cause extreme discomfort while you lie down, which makes it difficult to sleep especially when you have phlegm in throat at night. Certain foods are also known to cause phlegm in the throat after eating and should therefore be avoided.

The seriousness of the condition can be determined by examining the color of phlegm. Phlegm can be yellow, green, or black colored. These different colors signify the severity of inflammatory infections.

There are various natural remedies to relieve hard phlegm in throat, some of which are listed below:

You should consume a lot of liquids which can dissolve the phlegm stuck in throat and provide relief. You can drink hot water, herbal tea, infusions, and also caffeinated drinks including tea and coffee.

You can inhale steam or vapors which contain an essential oil like mint or eucalyptus essential oil. Tea tree essential can also be used as one of your phlegm throat clearing methods. A hot water bath with essential oils can also relieve phlegm. These essential oils are anti-microbial in action and their pungent odor helps unblock the nasal passage.

You can consume fruits which are rich in Vitamin C like orange and grapefruit. These foods help fight the bacteria present in phlegm, thereby providing relief.

You can also prepare an infusion with constituents like the pulp of licorice roots, black pepper, dry ginger, and sugar. This concoction stops the production of phlegm, thereby reducing the discomfort.

You can also make a mixture of ginger, honey, and cinnamon in water to relieve phlegm in throat. You should consume this mixture at least twice a day to get rid of phlegm build up in throat.

You can consume two cloves of garlic every night before going to bed. Garlic is a wonderful cleansing agent which cleans your body of infections micro-organisms. This would help in treating the phlegm and sore throat together.

However, if you notice blood in phlegm or color variations, you are advised to see a doctor. These may be the symptoms of a severe infection.