Using raw onion fumigation to relieve nasal congestion is a traditional folk remedy that many people find helpful in relieving nasal discomfort. Here are the specific steps and relevant precautions: ## Steps 1. **Prepare the ingredients** - A fresh raw onion - A pot of water - A heat-resistant container or pot (for fumigation) - A towel or blanket 2. **Cut the onion** - Cut the raw onion into thin slices or small pieces. When cutting onions, it is recommended to do it in a well-ventilated place to reduce the impact of the irritating smell on the eyes. 3. **Heat water and onions** - Add appropriate amount of water to the pot and put in the chopped onions. - After the water in the pot boils, turn to medium-low heat and continue to cook for about 5-10 minutes to allow the effective ingredients of the onions to be fully released into the water vapor. 4. **Fumigation** - Move the fumigation pot to a relatively closed but well-ventilated space. - Sit down or lower your head close to the steam source, use a towel or blanket to cover your head and the pot to form a "tent" shape to concentrate the steam. - Breathe deeply in the steam for about 10-15 minutes each time. Be careful not to overheat the steam to avoid burns. ## Precautions - **Safety first**: Make sure the steam temperature is appropriate to avoid burns caused by excessive temperature. Be careful with hot water and steam during the operation, especially when children are involved. - **Moderate use**: The time for each fumigation should not be too long, and 10-15 minutes is recommended. Excessive fumigation may cause throat discomfort or other side effects. - **Allergy test**: If you are allergic to onions, please avoid using this method. In addition, you can try it in small quantities for the first time to observe your body's reaction. - **Not an alternative treatment**: Although many people believe that onion fumigation is effective in relieving nasal congestion, it is not a scientifically proven treatment. If nasal congestion persists or is accompanied by other serious symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time and follow professional medical advice. - **Environmental ventilation**: When fumigating, ensure that the environment is properly ventilated to avoid inhaling too concentrated steam for a long time. ## Other ways to relieve nasal congestion In addition to onion fumigation, the following methods can also help relieve nasal congestion: - **Hot steam inhalation**: Use hot water steam for inhalation without adding any spices or herbs. - **Stay hydrated**: Use a humidifier to increase the humidity of the air, especially in a dry environment. - **Saline rinse**: Use saline to rinse your nasal cavity to help clear mucus and allergens in your nasal cavity. - **Drink plenty of water**: Staying hydrated helps dilute mucus and relieve nasal congestion. Please choose the appropriate method based on your own situation and seek help from a medical professional if necessary.