Mucus is a sticky and thick liquid that often blocks your nasal passages. This mucus is sometimes found to clog the open passages of the throat as well. This fluid is produced by the cells covering the sinus passages in the nasal cavities. On an average, our body is capable of producing around 1-2 quarts of mucus every day. The main function of the mucus is to keep the nasal membranes hydrated so as to lock the inhaled air in its moist form. It is most effective at kicking the irritants inhaled by the nose opening out of the body. This way it contributes a great deal in warding off numerous infections and minor illnesses.

At times, the mucus generated inside the nasal cavities seeps inside the throat. This is the time when we feel the production of phlegm inside the throat. According to many doctors, the production of mucus becomes accelerated when the body is preparing itself to fight against irritants. It removes the foreign particles via mucus which is then moved out via the throat passages. Therefore, as many doctors term it, mucus is one of the most pro-active defense mechanisms to combat the onslaught of an infection inside our body.