Steam inhalation therapy

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Jul 20, 2020 • 2 min Read

Steam inhalation therapy or “tuob” (suob in Tagalog) is an age-old technique where people cover their head with a towel or any thick cloth over a basin or pot filled with hot water, inhaling hot steam for several minutes. Also called steam therapy, it is one of the most widely used home remedies to soothe and open the nasal passages and get relief from the cold symptoms.

Here in the Philippines, tuob is a recent hot topic because there is a claim that it cures coronavirus (COVID-19) but the truth is, it cannot kill the virus nor prevent it.  According to health experts, there is no scientific evidence proving that tuob can cure COVID-19.

According to health information website Healthline, steam inhalation won’t be able to cure an infection, like cold or flu but it can help you feel a lot better while your body fights it off. Your body’s immune system will still do the bulk of the work to get rid of the virus causing your symptoms.

The main benefit of breathing in moist in warm steam is that it will help you feel at ease, less irritation, and swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages.

The moisture may also help mucus in your sinuses, which allows them to empty more easily. This can allow your breathing to return to normal, at least for a short period.

Steam inhalation may provide temporary relief from the symptoms of the common cold, flu (influenza), sinus infections (infectious sinusitis), bronchitis and nasal allergies.

Evidence claims that steam inhalation also helps alleviate headache, congested (stuffy) nose, throat irritation, breathing problems caused by airway congestion, dry or irritated nasal passages, and cough.

How steam inhalation therapy works? First, heat water to boiling point then carefully pour it into a bowl. Drape a towel over the back of your head then close your eyes and slowly lower your head toward the hot water until you’re about 8 to 12 inches away from it, be extremely careful, and avoid making direct contact with the water. Finally, inhale slowly and deeply through your nose for at least two to five minutes.

Be very careful to avoid accidents that may cause burns. Don’t steam longer than 10 to 15 minutes for each session. You can repeat steam inhalation to two or three times per day if you have symptoms.  If you’re feeling under the weather for more than a week or have severe symptoms, see your doctor.

Please be reminded that the best protection for COVID-19 and the most effective ways to prevent getting it is still wearing of face masks, frequent and proper handwashing, observing physical distancing, and practice of proper cough etiquette. Stay healthy and safe!

Photo Source: CTTO