Steam Inhalation Procedure

Steam Inhalation Introduction.

Steam inhalation if rightly given is a valuable hydrotherapy technique that could bring relief to many ailments, in this particular article, [Steam Inhalation Procedure] you will be getting all the necessary information that you will need in order to effectively give or take Steam inhalation, today, you will add another Arsenal to your with your weaponry against sickness.

What is Steam Inhalation

As it is rightly named steam inhalation is a means of supplying warm, moist air to the congested membranes of the nose and the sinuses during a head cold. Steam inhalation is also known as vapor inhalation.

Steam inhalation definition

Steam inhalation or vapor inhalation is warm, moist air directed towards the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract.

Steam Inhalation Equipment

If you do not want to purchase the special steam inhaler or you urgently want to carry it out on someone or yourself, the following equipment will be needed to carry out this treatment manually.

• A wide-neck jug.
• Boiling water.
• Essential oil or herbs, though these are not necessary since it is the Steam that produces the effect.
• A card or newspaper to construct a channeling device for the steam.
• A towel (optional)
• A hot plate (optional).
• An umbrella (optional).

Steam Inhalation Essential Oils

The following essential oils or herbs can be used during steam inhalation:

• Pine
• Mint
• Wintergreen
• Eucalyptus oil
• Garlic oil
• Tincture of benzoin compound

Steam Inhalation Procedure

Assemble necessary equipment

Bring water to a boil

Be sure that the treatment room is warm and free from drafts

Add essential oil/herbs if desired

Place the source of steam (tea kettle or pot) on a table or beside the bed (You can place a hot plate under a pot or tea kettle if available to keep the steam production more constant for a longer period of time, but only if the person receiving the treatment can carefully ensure that hair, sheet, etc. do not come in contact with the hot plate and cause a flame).

Place an umbrella (optional when sitting or receiving treatment) over the person being treated and the source of steam. Over the umbrella and the person with a sheet letting it hang on all sides to create an enclosed tent to capture the steam for the person to breathe (Note: if the person desires to lie down, have them lie at the side of the bed, then place the umbrella and sheet over the person’s head and the source of steam, so the person may have their head under the side of the tent and breathe in the Steam).

If a more intense treatment is desired, cover part of the tea kettle on top of the Pot with a paper cone to carry the steam directly to the person’s mouth or nose, be very careful not to burn the person.

Treatment generally should last for 30 to 60 minutes, two or three times a day.

Have tissues easily available in case the person needs to blow their nose or cough out loosened secretions.

For continuous inhalation, place the tea kettle on a hot pot without the paper cone and let the steam fill the room.

After the treatment gently dries the person’s face, be sure the person is warm and dry and encouraged the person to rest for 30 minutes depending on the intensity and the duration of treatment.

Steam Inhalation for Cold

Steam inhalation helps to loosen and break up the thick phlegm associated with a chest cold.

Steam Inhalation for Sinusitis

Steam inhalation is good for the treatment of sinusitis read the steam inhalation procedure above.

Steam Inhalation for Sinus Infection.

Steam inhalation can also assist in the treatment of sinus infection check the steam inhalation procedure above.

Steam Inhalation for Babies

When applying steam inhalation on babies check the temperature frequently to prevent burning the tender skin of the baby, I will recommend the personal steam inhaler for babies because the temperature can be regulated, and close contact with the face can produce scalding.

Steam Inhalation with Vicks

The Vicks Personal Steam Inhaler provides soothing temporary relief from cough and nasal congestion

Steam Inhalation Benefits

• It relieves the conjunction of the throat, sinuses, and nose.
• Acute or chronic irritation and inflammation of mucous membranes (tickling or pain in the throat) of the nose and throat due to cold, bronchitis, allergies, etc. (help by moistening mucous membrane)
• It helps to loosen and break up the thick phlegm associated with a chest cold.
• It stimulates the discharge of mucous from the throat and lungs.
• It increases blood flow to the nose, throat, and lungs.
• It takes care of sinus headaches.
• It relieves coughing
• It lowers blood pressure.
• It assists with alcohol or tobacco withdrawal effects.

Steam Inhalation Side Effects/Contraindications

• It should not be used on a person with congestive heart failure.
• Breathing the hot, moist air may make an asthma patient uncomfortable.