Anosmia refers to the loss of sense of smell. There are instances in which it is temporary, such as when you are suffering from a cold. However, there are also cases in which anosmia is permanent due to matters that concern the nervous system, and oftentimes those who are suffering from it have no choice but to learn to live a life without the ability to smell.
Your sense of smell is very important. It’s something that allows you to enjoy food. Without it, every mealtime can be a complete bore. The ability to smell also helps save you from endangering your life. For instance, your nose can inform you when there is a gas leak or fire, or if the food or beverage you are about to consume is contaminated.
For cases of anosmia that involve the nervous system, only a doctor can determine the right treatment for it — if reversing it is possible. On the other hand, temporary anosmia will go away on its own as soon as the underlying cause has been resolved. Stimulating the olfactory nerve, the one that sends signals from the nose to the brain, can help a lot.
Without further ado, here are some of the best home remedies for anosmia that’s temporary only:
Lemon Juice
The smell of lemon juice is undeniably stimulating to the olfactory nerve. Consuming it on a regular basis can also help improve taste perception, which usually goes hand in hand with your sense of smell. It’s also a good idea to add lemon juice to certain foods to help make them smell and taste so much better.
Garlic
What makes garlic effective for anosmia is the fact that it has a very powerful odor. What’s more, this common herb is very good at alleviating various conditions of the respiratory system that can cause reduction or complete loss of smell, such as the common cold or flu, because of its superb antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ginger
Another herb known to possess anti-inflammatory properties is ginger, and so including it in the diet can help in opening up the airways. Ginger can be grated and added to food to enhance their smell and taste. You may also suck on a small piece of fresh ginger root or consume ginger tea on a regular basis.
Cayenne Pepper
The inclusion of cayenne pepper in the diet can definitely help put an end to a temporary bout of anosmia. A lot of people with issues concerning their sense of smell swear by the effectiveness of taking a mixture of 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 1 teaspoon of honey a number of times a day in warding off anosmia.
Steam
Fill a small basin with hot water. If you have peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil, add a couple of drops of it. Place your face a few inches above the basin, cover your head with a large towel, and start inhaling the steam. Do this a few times a day. Similarly, you may also take a warm shower and let the steam-filled bathroom alleviate anosmia.
ACV
Twice a day, it’s a wonderful idea for you to consume a glass of water with 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar stirred into it. Doing so will help stimulate not only your olfactory nerve, but also your taste buds. You may also whip up dishes to which apple cider vinegar can be added for a much faster recovery.
Castor Oil
Let’s save the best for last — castor oil is a superb fighter of temporary anosmia. All you have to do is warm a little of it in the microwave for just a few seconds. After making sure that it’s warm and not scalding hot, apply a drop of it in each of your nostrils. Do this morning and night until you have completely regained your sense of smell.
