While decongestants like Sudafed and Afrin work by causing blood vessels in the nose to shrink temporarily, there are alternative treatments that can also help manage nasal congestion effectively. For instance, understanding how cold receptors in our noses function opens up possibilities for using menthol or similar substances to trick these receptors into providing relief from congestion symptoms. Techniques such as yoga breathing exercises that manipulate airflow through specific nostrils based on body positioning could also offer natural ways to alleviate congestion without relying solely on medication. Exploring complementary therapies like acupuncture or steam inhalation may provide additional options for individuals seeking non-pharmacological approaches to managing their nasal congestion.