Last updated on October 18th, 2023 at 02:55 pm

In the midst of cold and flu season, you may be concerned after hearing the recent news from the Food and Drug Administration about phenylephrine. So, if you’re wondering what decongestant alternatives there are, we have great news for you: there is a wide variety of helpful, easy remedies out there for nasal congestion.

Inhaling Steam for Sinus Relief

Inhaling steam, either from a warm bowl of water or a hot shower, can relieve sinus pressure by easing inflammation and promoting mucus drainage. Add a few drops of peppermint into the mix for additional soothing benefits and to help clear airways.

Warm Compress for Headache Relief

If your nasal congestion is accompanied by a headache or sinus pain, a warm compress can be a great option to find relief. As nasal inflammation causes the feelings of constriction and pressure associated with congestion, placing a warm compress directly over the nose and forehead can provide a much-needed reprieve by promoting blood flow and helping your facial muscles relax.

Stay Hydrated and Spice Things Up

Ensuring that you keep hydrated will help you feel better as well. Drinking enough fluid helps to thin mucus, letting it drain from your sinuses more easily. You can boost the effect by eating spicy foods like hot peppers, which have capsaicin, to irritate the mucus membranes and promote a runny nose, helping to further loosen congestion.

Homeopathic Decongestant Medicines

If these methods aren’t enough or you need options for when you aren’t at home, try a medicine from Boiron, which are homeopathic and phenylephrine-free.

• SinusCalm^® is specifically designed to relieve nasal congestion, sinus pain and pressure, and headache due to the common cold or allergies.* These tablets are non-drowsy and have no risk of rebound congestion, making them a great, worry-free option.

• ColdCalm^® is ideal for relieving nasal congestion as well as other symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing, runny nose, and minor sore throat.* ColdCalm is also available in children’s formulas, including pre-measured liquid doses and meltaway pellets.

• Chestal® Cold & Cough Syrup conveniently targets both common cough and cold symptoms. This sweet-tasting multi-symptom syrup relieves nasal and chest congestion, dry fitful cough, sneezing, minor sore throat, and runny or stuffy nose.*

When colds and congestion are on the horizon, know that there are options to help you find relief. For more ideas on how to find relief from cold and flu symptoms, check out our Wellness Tips for articles, advice, and tricks.

*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.