See a doctor if: Smell/taste loss lasting many weeks, one-sided nasal blockage or bleeding, facial pain or swelling, or loss with headache, weakness, vision or speech changes - see a doctor
Kitchen remedies
Steam inhalation and saline nasal rinses to clear congestion; warm fluids; well-seasoned, aromatic food to stimulate the senses; smell-training with familiar strong scents (clove, cardamom, lemon, coffee) a couple of times a day; rest and hydration
Featured herbs
How to prepare
Cautions
Smell often returns gradually over weeks as the lining heals. Supportive only. Sudden loss of smell without a cold, or loss with other neurological symptoms, needs medical assessment rather than home care.
Related remedies
Earache & Ear Blockage (mild, traditional)Conjunctivitis / Red Eye (mild, supportive)Tinnitus / Ear Ringing (supportive)Dry / Tired Eyes (supportive)Swimmer's Ear / Outer-ear Irritation (mild, supportive)Blocked / Popping Ears from Flights & Colds (supportive)Ear Wax Build-up / Blocked Ear (mild, supportive)Dry / Crusty Nasal Passages (supportive)
When to see a doctor. Home remedies are for minor, self-limiting complaints in adults. They are not a substitute for medical care, and herbs can interact with medicines. Not for children under the ages stated, in pregnancy, or with chronic conditions without a doctor's advice.
