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I’ve Used This $13 Emollient for Years, And It Saves My Nose Every Cold Season

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When I was a kid and I needed some help breathing, my mom always reached for the box with the astronaut on it. Whether it was due to my severe seasonal allergies or a cold that left me congested, I could always count on the tiny bottle in that box to open my airways and help me breathe again. So what was in that astronaut-emblazoned box, you ask? None other than Ponaris Nasal Emollient. 

What is Ponaris Nasal Emollient?

Since 1931, Ponaris ($13.02, Amazon) has worked hard to be the solution to all of your nasal issues, from stuffy and congested noses to post-nasal drip and nasal dryness. But what is it? According to the Ponaris website, “Ponaris is a specially prepared iodized botanical oil blend that contains oils of pine, eucalyptus, peppermint, and cajeput in a cottonseed oil base.” Basically, it’s an expertly curated blend of some of the best essential oils, proven to lubricate, moisturize, and soothe nasal passageways for easy and better breathing. Best of all, it’s great for kids and adults alike. 

How to Use Ponaris Nasal Emollient

Now that you know what Ponaris is, you’re probably wondering how to use it. While the company itself only suggests using Ponaris as nasal drops, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve from my childhood that I’d like to pass along. Here are three tips on how to use Ponaris Nasal Emollient to breathe better this cold and allergy season. 

1. Place directly in the nose as nasal drops. This is the official way. As per Ponaris’ instructions, “With head tilted back, place one or two drops in each nostril once or twice a day, or as directed by a physician.” Simple and effective, this is the most common way people use the emollient. 

2. Use a cotton swab or Q-tip to swab the nose. If you’re looking to use this on a child, you might find the first method a tad difficult. Take a tip from my mother and, well, use a Q-tip! Simply douse one end with the oil and gently swab the openings of the nostrils. This way, you can control how much oil you’re placing within your child’s nose and you won’t have to worry about fussing with a fidgety dropper (and child). 

3. Diffuse in a pot for an instant vaporizer. Something I did a lot as a child was make my own stovetop vaporizer with breathing agents like Ponaris, Vicks VapoRub ($5.44, Amazon), and other essential oils. As I said before, I had (and still have) pretty severe seasonal allergies, which led to irritation from the constant blowing and dehydration as a result of allergy medication. On top of that, I also catch a cold like it’s my job, so I’ve spent a day or two over a vaporizer during my lifetime. 

To create your own vaporizer, simply boil some water on the stove, add a couple drops of Ponaris to the mix, and stand over the pot with a towel over your head once the water has begun to boil and steam. Slowly inhale the mixture (with proper breathing breaks in between) and see for yourself how your breathing improves. 

Ponaris Nasal Emollient

Ready to try Ponaris out for yourself? Head on over to Amazon now and say goodbye to your dry, cracked nose today!

Where to buy: $13.02, Amazon

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