We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Treatments

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Steam Inhalation?

By K. Testa
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 36,089
Share

Steam inhalation is a home remedy typically used to relieve symptoms of sinusitis, pollen allergies, and other ear, nose, and throat issues. A common benefit cited by medical professionals is that it reduces congestion, as it breaks up mucus in the airways. Some people combine steam inhalation with aromatherapy to provide natural relief without the use of any medications. Often, humidifiers are recommended for people with health problems caused by dry air in the home. When a humidifier alone does not provide enough relief, steam inhalation might help alleviate some symptoms.

A common method of inhaling steam is to boil a few cups of water and then pour the steaming water into a large bowl. Next, a towel can be placed over the sufferer's head, as he leans over the bowl of water, breathing deeply through his nose for approximately 15 minutes. As an alternative to using a bowl and a towel, many retail stores and online merchants sell electric steam inhalers with masks.

Many people find that aromatherapy provides more relief than steam alone. To alleviate allergy and sinus symptoms using steam inhalation and aromatherapy, an essential oil may be added to the steaming water. Some oils recommended for this purpose include eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary. These are generally used sparingly, with only two to three drops being used at a time. The oils can be used individually or as a combination of scents.

Scientific studies have produced mixed results on the effectiveness of steam inhalation for treating the common cold. Two research studies, performed five years apart, yielded different outcomes. One of them showed a reduction in cold symptoms after the participants inhaled heated air for 20 minutes. The other study found no differences in cold symptoms between those who received the heated steam treatment and those who did not.

Since very hot water is used, experts caution that there is a burn risk associated with inhaling steam. For this reason, it is typically not recommended as a treatment for young children. Many doctors also advise against steam inhalation for pregnant women or people with heart conditions. Also, some professionals approve it for people with asthma, while others feel it should be avoided. A physician should be consulted to address a patient's specific questions or concerns.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By Rundocuri — On Jan 29, 2014

Heavanet, I prefer using steam inhalation to taking oral medications when possible. Not only does it moisturize your nasal passages, but steam vapor also helps to clear your head and ease a dry cough. You can use a personal steam inhaler, a bowl of hot water and towel, or even a cup of hot tea to begin inhaling beneficial steam.

By Heavanet — On Jan 29, 2014

I was curious about any experience people have for relieving a variety of nasal symptoms from colds, flu, or allergies. Does this type of therapy really help?

Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/what-is-steam-inhalation.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.