During flu season, respiratory symptoms like cough, congestion, and lingering mucus can escalate quickly, especially in kids. In functional medicine, we focus on supporting the body’s ability to clear mucus, calm airway inflammation, and recover efficiently.
Nebulizing saline is one supportive tool I keep in our home during respiratory illness. When used appropriately, it can help hydrate airways, thin mucus, and support easier breathing — without suppressing the body’s natural response.
This guide is designed to give you clear, practical guidance so you can use nebulizing safely and confidently as part of your flu-season toolkit.
If you need more, we have a whole Cold and Flu Season Guide you can reference HERE.
Let’s get into it.
Saline: you want 0.9% saline (isotonic)
- Matches the body’s natural salt concentration
- Gently hydrates airways
- Thins mucus without irritating the lungs
- Appropriate for kids and adults
- Best choice for flu season, cough, congestion, and daily respiratory support
What Is Nebulized Saline?
A nebulizer converts liquid saline into a fine mist that reaches deep into the lungs.
Unlike humidifiers, nebulizers deliver localized respiratory support where it’s actually needed.
Saline alone (no medication) can:
- Thin mucus
- Reduce airway irritation
- Support oxygen exchange
- Improve cough clearance
What Types of Coughs Can It Help?
1. Wet / Productive Cough
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Thick mucus or chest congestion
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Saline helps loosen secretions so they’re easier to clear
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Often paired with bronchodilators when prescribed
2. Dry / Irritated Cough
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Airway inflammation or dryness
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Nebulized saline helps rehydrate and calm tissues
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Can reduce coughing fits triggered by irritation
3. Asthma or Allergy-Related Cough
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Used during flare-ups under provider guidance
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Helps deliver targeted airway support
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Can reduce chest tightness and breathing effort
Can Babies and Kids Use a Nebulizer?
Yes — nebulizers are commonly used for infants and children with:
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RSV
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Asthma
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Persistent coughs
Notes:
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Use pediatric masks
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Follow dosing and guidance from a healthcare provider
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Clean equipment after every use
What I use by age:
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Children: 2–2.5 mL of 0.9% saline
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Adults: 3–5 mL of 0.9% saline
Timing:
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1–2 times per day during respiratory symptoms
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Stop if coughing worsens, wheezing occurs, or breathing seems labored
Clinical Situations Where Nebulizers Are Used
Nebulizer therapy is commonly used to support:
- Upper respiratory infections
- Sinus congestion
- Colds and flu
- Allergies and asthma
- Chronic bronchitis or COPD
- Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath
This approach is useful when fast, localized respiratory support is needed.
Why It Works (Western View)
- Delivers support directly to lung tissue
- Bypasses digestion
- Thins mucus and clears secretions
- Supports oxygen uptake
- May help reduce illness duration when used appropriately
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Lens
Nebulized moisture is said to:
- Moisten the Lungs (dry cough support)
- Transform phlegm
- Open airways
- Clear heat and toxins
- Support recovery during Wind-Heat or acute illness patterns
Some integrative clinics use additional compounds selectively, based on history and tolerance:
- Glutathione
- Magnesium
- NAC
- Sodium bicarbonate
- Homeopathics
Important Note on Glutathione
Nebulized glutathione is sometimes used to support oxidative stress and airway inflammation after viral illness or prolonged recovery.
It is not a first-line or DIY therapy and should be used only under professional supervision.
Prevention + Support (Non-Nebulizer)
Onion Cough Syrup
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Onion + honey or sugar
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Let sit 24–48 hours
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Refrigerate after opening
⚠️ Honey only for children 12 months+
Vitamin C
Supports immune cell function and antioxidant demand during illness.
I personally love using i01 internal Camu Camu daily for myself and my son (he’s been using it since age 4, 1 pippette)
B-Complex Vitamins
Support energy and nervous system resilience when intake is low and demand is high.
Magnesium + Fluids
Foundational for hydration, muscle relaxation, headaches, and body aches.
Cautions & Safety
Possible side effects may include:
- Throat irritation or coughing
- Headache or jitteriness
- Fatigue or nausea
- Temporary symptom flares
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Nebulized therapies beyond saline must be prescribed and supervised by a qualified healthcare provider. Never self-prescribe nebulized substances.
Seek medical care if symptoms worsen, breathing becomes difficult, or fever persists.
What To Do Next?
Schedule a free Root Cause Discovery Call with our team so we can help you fix what’s been ignored for years — step by step.