The body naturally produces mucus to keep the throat and sinuses lubricated and protected. However, when too much mucus is produced, it might signal an underlying condition like a chronic infection, acid reflux, or inflammation. Below are several common causes of mucus buildup along with natural remedies to help manage the symptoms.
1. Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a frequently overlooked cause of excessive mucus. It happens when the valve at the top of the stomach doesn’t close properly, allowing stomach acid to backflow into the esophagus and throat. Although heartburn is a common symptom, sometimes the only sign is an increase in mucus—a condition known as silent reflux or gastro-laryngeal reflux disease (GLR).
Natural solution:
Mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water and drink it twice daily before meals. This may help strengthen the stomach valve and reduce reflux. A reduction in mucus after about a week might indicate that acid reflux was the culprit.
2. Antacid Medications
Many people, especially those over 40, depend on antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to control acid reflux. However, while these medications neutralize stomach acid, they can sometimes worsen the issue over time.
Natural solution:
In addition to apple cider vinegar, you might try taking 5 to 10 capsules of betaine hydrochloride before meals. This supplement can aid digestion and help regulate the stomach valve.
3. Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip occurs when mucus from the sinuses flows down the back of the throat. This condition, often caused by sinus infections from viruses, bacteria, fungi, or yeast, can lead to ongoing congestion, coughing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and frequent throat clearing.
Natural solution:
Use a neti pot with distilled water, sea salt, and a few drops of grapefruit seed extract to rinse your sinuses. This method can help remove biofilms and fight infections.
4. Overuse of Antibiotics
Antibiotics, while effective against bacterial infections, do not target other microorganisms like fungi, yeast, or Candida. This selective action can allow these organisms to flourish, potentially leading to persistent congestion and sinus pressure.
Natural solution:
Consider natural remedies such as black elderberry, aged garlic, or oregano oil to address infections. These options can help maintain a balanced microbial environment in the body.
5. Grains and Dairy Products
Grains contain substances like phytic acid, which can hinder mineral absorption, and are often produced with pesticides that may disrupt gut flora. Additionally, gluten—a protein found in grains—can trigger autoimmune reactions that increase mucus production in the sinuses, throat, and intestines.
Natural solution:
Try eliminating grains, seed oils (like canola and corn), and fried foods from your diet for two weeks to test for food sensitivities, and observe if your symptoms improve.
6. Airborne Allergies
For those who are allergic to airborne particles such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or mold, the body produces extra mucus to trap these irritants and prevent them from entering the lungs, which can result in excess mucus production.
Natural solution:
Consult with your doctor to get an allergy test and identify specific triggers. Additionally, using air purifiers at home and regularly cleaning areas prone to dust and mold can be beneficial. For pollen allergies, consider incorporating small amounts of bee pollen into your diet to help your immune system build tolerance over time.