A runny nose comes knocking by anytime during the year and always gives people hard time. Given the variety of causes that result in runny nose – ranging from common cold to weather changes – it is quite difficult to find one medication for its treatment.
Hence, it is best to cure runny nose with herbal remedies right at home because herbs do not have any side effects. Here are some of the best herbal remedies for runny nose.
Herbal Remedies For Runny Nose
Ginger
Ginger comprises of various enzymes that promote blood circulation to all the body organs thereby reducing inflammation, clearing nasal passages and reducing swelling. Ginger has been in use since ancient times as a remedy for cough and cold.The best and most effective way to use ginger as a remedy is to cut a thin slice of it and chew it. You can mix honey to it to enhance its taste. Ginger tea can also be sipped for similar results.
Chamomile Tea
The active chemicals in chamomile have strong anti-inflammatory properties that bring relief to any swelling that might be caused in nasal tissues. It also has antioxidant as well as antihistamine properties that not only prevents runny nose but also boosts the overall immune system. With the appearance of first signs of cold and runny nose, make yourself a hot cup of chamomile tea.Steam from this tea would thin down nasal secretions thereby inhibiting further severe infections in sinus and ear.You should drink at least 4 cups of chamomile tea daily for quick relief. However, if runny nose is caused by ragweed allergy you should avoid drinking chamomile tea since it would result in an allergic reaction.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an age-old and well known remedy for nasal congestion. It is effective in treating runny nose primarily because of its immune boosting properties. Regular intake of echinacea may improve your immunity by as much as 50 percent.It also relieves influenza and related symptoms such as headaches, body aches, etc. It is easily available in the form of teas and supplements. However, pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid taking this herb. People taking immunosuppressant drugs should also avoid its use.
Eucalyptus
Most conventional medications for cold and cough such as cough syrups, lozenges, chest rubs, etc. have eucalyptus as an ingredient. This is mainly because of its decongestant and expectorant properties. Eucalyptus dilutes secretions, eases breathing, opens nasal passages, and relieves congestion in respiratory tract.The best way to use eucalyptus as a remedy for runny nose is to put a few drops of eucalyptus oil in hot water and inhale the steam. Once this scented steam enters the nasal passages, it would shrink mucus membranes and drain sinus cavities. Eucalyptus oil is also easily available in capsule form. You can also add few drops of it to your regular beverages and avail its benefits.
Peppermint
Native to Europe and North America, peppermint has an active agent called menthol which is effective against runny nose and other such symptoms of cold.Menthol in peppermint oil, when inhaled, alleviates nasal congestion and promotes clearing of nasal passages. It is available as topical rubs, nasal decongestants and herbal teas.
Oregano Oil
It is a useful remedy for runny nose mainly because of its antiparasitic, antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties fight conditions of running nose that may arise due to sinusitis. The active agents in oregano oil – thymol and carvacrol – help in boosting the immune system further. Add 2 to 3 drops of oregano oil to your regular juice or drink and drink it regularly till the symptoms of runny nose recede.
Barberry
The main active agent in this particular herb is berberine that has strong anti-inflammatory as well as antimicrobial properties. Berberine further boosts the immune system and helps the body in fighting infection.The herb’s bark, fruit and stem is helpful in curing runny nose. Barberry extract is also easily available in the market and can be used to get rid of sinusitis, nasal congestion and other such respiratory disorders.
