When I was a speech team coach, one of my declamation students would complain of having phlegm issues before each round. I'd have him squeeze some fresh lemon into a water bottle with lukewarm water (to keep it from making him more thirsty, or making his body have to warm up chilled water), and then keep one or two slices in the bottle itself, to keep it strong enough to cut through gunk.

Maybe I will make them stop at a store on the way to our condo tonight. I so wish I did not have to get on a plane today.