Phlegm is a thicker secretion produced by the throat and lungs, whereas mucus is a thinner secretion produced by the nose and sinuses. Both phlegm and mucus may build up due to lower respiratory tract illnesses, whether bacterial, fungal, or viral. Although mucus in the throat is not hazardous, the infection causing it may progress to more severe issues. You can eliminate mucus in the throat and sinuses with simple home remedies.

Drinking plenty of water
A lack of water can dehydrate the mucus, making it thicker and more challenging to get rid of. Throat dryness can also make it easier for the secretion to accumulate in the airways. Drinking warm or hot water can thin out the mucus and relieve soreness or redness in the throat. You can also drink warm chicken soup or broth. These not only help you stay hydrated but also provide essential fatty acids and protein necessary for overall health.

Salt water gargles
A traditional method to soothe the throat and loosen up mucus is to gargle with a glass of hot water mixed with two to three tablespoons of salt. Gargling can bring up mucus, making it easier to spit it out and clear the throat. You can practice this simple home remedy three to four times daily or more if needed. It is safe and has no side effects, but ensure not to swallow the salt water.

Lemon juice and honey
Lemon is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Mixing some lemon juice and honey in a cup of warm water and drinking the solution may reduce respiratory airway irritation, alleviate cough, and hasten the recovery from colds and flu. Naturally moisturizing honey not only acts as a sweetener but can also lessen tissue sensitivity.

Ginger and honey
Ginger is a spicy natural herb with excellent healing properties. Research suggests that its anti-inflammatory nature relieves pain, reduces swelling, and increases resistance to infections that lead to sore throats. To prepare this solution, grate fresh ginger and add a teaspoon of its juice to warm milk. Adding honey to sweeten the drink is optional. An alternative recipe is to skip the milk and drink a spoonful of ginger juice mixed with honey as a syrup.

Peppermint tea
Menthol, an essential oil found in peppermint tea, has been used for generations to relieve runny or stuffy nose, headaches, phlegm, nausea, and other cold and flu symptoms. Peppermint tea is easy to make: Mix some mint leaves in boiling water and let it simmer and steep for five to ten minutes. You can add honey for some sweetness and drink the infused water twice or thrice daily. The tea has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory qualities that boost immunity.

Licorice tea
Licorice tea, made from licorice root, can temporarily relieve mucus accumulation. The herbal tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial qualities, which boost immunity against illness. To prepare the tea, add a tablespoon of chopped licorice root to a cup of water and boil it for ten minutes.

Steam or vapor inhalation with essential oils
Eucalyptus oil is a beneficial essential oil that can instantly clear mucus buildup in the respiratory tract. Add a few drops of this antiseptic oil in boiling water or a steamer and inhale the fumes. Besides loosening phlegm and clearing the airway, it can relieve throat pain and redness.

Thyme and honey infusion
Drinking thyme-infused water is another helpful home remedy for mucus in the throat. To prepare this solution, add dried thyme extract or two branches of fresh thyme to boiling water and let it steep for five to ten minutes. You can add honey for a sweeter taste. Thyme-infused water can alleviate cough and stuffy nose, lubricate the throat, and ease pain. Thyme is rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds that help expel phlegm and relieve throat itchiness and other symptoms.

To relieve throat phlegm symptoms, you can also drink guaco and mallow tea, take warm water showers, and use a humidifier. But do not forget to check on your allergies before opting for any home remedy or natural treatment. Also, track what you eat; experts recommend avoiding caffeine and dairy products like milk or yogurt as they thicken the mucus. Another tip is to avoid throat irritants like paint or other chemicals for a speedy recovery.

Diagnosing the problem
Mucus and phlegm may result from a mild viral infection, the flu, or more severe diseases like bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. Usually, the color of the mucus indicates whether the condition is severe. If a person coughs up yellowish-green phlegm or blood or if the cough persists, it is best to consult a healthcare professional immediately and get checked. The cure and treatments can vary depending on the condition.