Nasal congestion is mainly caused by certain allergies, colds, sinus, or viral infections. It leads to swelling of the nasal tissues, blocks the passage, and makes it difficult to breathe. Mostly, nasal congestion clears up within a few days. There are several home remedies that help expedite the process. Moreover, certain foods are known to clear congestion. Here are eight such foods that can be especially beneficial as they are known to provide quick results.

Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium, which help reduce swelling, drain the mucus, and relax blood vessels. One can easily add these seeds to salads, smoothies, or even roast and snack on them throughout the day.

Pineapple
Pineapple is a rich source of vitamin C and a powerful enzyme called bromelain, which not only helps break down excess mucus but also reduces its production, especially in case of allergies. Pineapple as a fruit is also quite versatile and can be used in a number of smoothies, juices, and salads or can be eaten raw.

Grapefruit
This power-packed citrus fruit has anti-inflammatory properties and salicylic acid, which also helps reduce swelling. Its pH levels break down the mucus proteins and fight congestion related to allergies. One can have grapefruit juice or slices, or combine it with other fruits including pineapple for quick relief.

Onions
Onions contain a flavonoid called quercetin, which reduces inflammation and helps fight allergies. Onions can be eaten in salads, cooked into meals, roasted, or stewed in soups.

Ginger
This root vegetable is traditionally known to ease discomfort due to nasal congestion and reduce swelling. The best part is that one can consume it through hot ginger tea or inhale steam induced with ginger for quick relief. Ginger helps to loosen the mucus, which can be easily drained later. One can also add lemon or turmeric to the tea to ease pain due to inflammation.

Hot soups
Hot soups and broths like chicken soup or miso soup can be some of the most powerful remedies to thin mucus, alleviate nasal congestion, and ease breathing difficulties. They also soothe the throat, which may get sore due to respiratory infections. This happens especially when the sinus drains into the throat and leads to irritation and swelling. For added benefits, one can add ingredients like garlic, ginger, turmeric, leafy greens, and miso to hot soups.

Green tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory polyphenols that may help soothe swollen sinuses. Moreover, the vapor that one inhales while drinking hot green tea can also help loosen mucus. Most green tea ingredients are natural and can provide essential nutrients and overall health benefits.

Honey
Honey may not seem like an obvious remedy for beating nasal congestion, but it helps fight upper respiratory tract infections and also soothes sore throats due to postnasal drips. Honey is also a safe ingredient for most individuals, including children over one year, and may be used in most teas or smoothies.