Experts Warn Against Viral Garlic Nasal Trend

It’s not a good idea, regardless of what you might see on TikTok.

That’s the consensus from medical professionals regarding a trending at-home method for relieving nasal congestion, which they warn could actually make things worse for those suffering from colds or the flu.

“Please don’t do this,” Dr. Madeleine Herman, a physician president at the Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, stated. “It’s not only ineffective, but it can exacerbate symptoms.”

On TikTok, there are popular videos showcasing individuals inserting whole cloves of raw garlic into their noses for periods of 10 to 15 minutes, only to pull them out and experience an overwhelming rush of mucus.

Some users claim this unusual technique can open blocked sinuses and relieve congestion when conventional methods fail. However, it’s important not to be deceived by the visible mucus. While garlic may have some health benefits, Herman advised that this remedy can backfire significantly.

“The notable drainage people experience after removing the garlic is due to two factors,” she explained.

First, the mucus that had been trapped behind the blockage just flows out once the garlic is removed. Secondly, the strong compounds in garlic irritate the nasal passages, causing the body to produce even more mucus in a bid to eliminate the irritant.

In simpler terms, the flood of mucus seen in those TikTok videos is not a sign of improvement; it’s a response to irritation. This irritation can actually lead to a buildup of existing mucus, intensifying the feeling of congestion.

Herman pointed out that inserting raw garlic into your nose carries real risks that can be quite painful.

“The active compounds found in garlic may cause chemical burns when they come into contact with skin or mucous membranes,” she warned. This could lead to bleeding in the sensitive tissues of the nose, especially with repeated attempts, and might even result in rashes or permanent scars.

“Keeping a foreign object in the nose for too long can also pave the way for infections,” she cautioned.

Introducing a garlic clove into the nasal cavity can infiltrate harmful microbes. Coupled with irritation, this environment is conducive to bacterial growth.

The outcome? A painful sinus infection and other potential complications. There’s also a risk of the clove getting lodged or breaking apart, which might necessitate a doctor’s intervention.

This trend emerges during peak cold and flu season in the U.S., as people seek solutions to alleviate their symptoms.

If you’re aiming for easier breathing, medical experts strongly recommend steering clear of garlic and opting for established methods to manage cold symptoms.

“Colds are generally self-limiting viral infections,” Dr. Raj Sindwani, an otolaryngologist, mentioned. “The best approach is a holistic one: rest, hydration, and perhaps nasal sprays or saline irrigations.”

Over-the-counter decongestants containing pseudoephedrine may also provide relief, while pain relievers like acetaminophen can help alleviate sinus pain and pressure.

Applying a warm, damp cloth on the nose and forehead might help soothe discomfort, and using a humidifier can prevent nasal passages from drying out.

Inhaling steam from either a hot shower or a bowl of water could help loosen mucus and reduce swelling.

Yet, if your cold persists for more than 10 days, worsens after getting better, or comes with serious symptoms like high fever, chest pain, or trouble breathing, it’s advisable to consult a doctor to rule out more severe issues.