It is really inconvenient and annoying when you have a runny nose. Although it is usually not a medical emergency, it can be a symptom of certain long-term or short-term conditions like rhinitis or a sinus infection. Anything that inflames or irritates your nasal tissues, including allergies, infections, and various irritants, can cause a runny nose.
Luckily, there are natural remedies to stop it. Here are some of it:
Saline Rinse
When it comes to a runny nose, this solution is one of the easiest natural remedies. To make a saline rinse, add a half teaspoon of sea salt to 2 cups of warm water and then, stir it until it completely dissolves. Apply the solution to the inside of your nostrils using a dropper while keeping your head tilted back and breathing very slowly. Tilt your head back down after and blow your nose. You must repeat this process until your mucus has reduced. Studies claim that that saline solution can improve cold symptoms like a sore throat, nasal obstruction, nasal secretions, and nasal breathing score.
Hot Drinks
By simply drinking hot water, a runny nose can be relieved. Hot drinks provide an immediate and lasting relief to various symptoms, according to research. Health experts believe that these effects are due to the ability of hot water to flush out and break down excess mucus. You can add lemon or any anti-inflammatory herb like chamomile to your hot water as it will provide antiviral and antibacterial effects.
Garlic
Bugs that cause a runny nose can be ward-off with the use of garlic. Allicin, its main compound, provides a powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties. Add it raw in a salad or soup to treat a runny nose. Use garlic by crushing or slicing at least one clove per day before eating it. Let it sit for five minutes. You can either cook it or take it in capsule form if you cannot handle the taste of raw garlic.
Licorice Root
Licorice root has an active component known as glycyrrhizin, which contains properties that help break down excess mucus. Also, licorice root contains antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties that support the immune system. This remedy can be taken as a tea or in a capsule.
Mustard Oil
Mustard oil helps break down mucus, thereby can be used in treating sinus problems. Moreover, its potent antibacterial properties can also fight against the most resistant pathogens, such as E. coli. Make use of mustard oil by heating a small amount of it in a pan until lukewarm. Using a dropper, add a few drops to each nostril while your head is tilted back. Let it sit for a moment and then, blow your nose. Repeat this once or twice each day.
Steam Bath
Steam bath helps in removing excess mucus from the nasal passages, which causes a runny nose. Prepare a steam bath by heating a cup or two of water in a pot until it starts to steam and then, add a few drops of eucalyptus, thyme, or peppermint essential oil. In addition to removing mucus, you can also kill cold bugs by adding an antimicrobial oil. Thymol and menthol, which can be found in some essential oils, act as decongestants.
Ginger
Ginger has been used to treat symptoms of a cold. Several researches have proven its effectiveness. For symptoms of a cold, fresh ginger is the best option. You can grate it on your food or add a little bit of raw honey if you can’t handle its taste. Make a ginger tea by cutting a few pieces of ginger into slices and soak it in hot water for 10 minutes.
