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There are several unique home remedies for runny nose. In this comprehensive guide, you will be introduced to 15 of the best grandma approved home remedies for this condition; however, before delving into how to resolve this leaky issue, we feel it is first important that you understand what causes a runny nose.
Basically, the term “runny nose” refers to the excess drainage of fluids which ranges from only a mild case of clear fluid to a more serious case, which involves the discharge of thick mucus from the nose. The excess drainage is produced by the nasal tissues, the blood vessels in the nose, and the adjacent tissues.
In most instances, the excess drainage “runs out” or drips directly from the nose, or drips down into the back of the throat. In other instances, the drainage may go out of the nose and in the back of the throat.
What Causes A Runny Nose?
Now that you understand what the term “runny nose” means, it is time to evaluate the various causes of the condition. By having a solid understanding of the causes associated with the condition, it will be easier to determine the best home remedies for your unfortunate runny nose.
The excess drainage that occurs with a runny nose is caused by absolutely anything that has the capability of irritating the tissues in the nasal cavity or inflaming the tissues. The most common causes of runny nose include infections and allergies; however, various types of irritants may also cause excess drainage.
In rarer instances, the complication may stem from a foreign body present in the nasal cavity, the presence of polyps, a tumor, or serious headaches. There are situations in which no cause is apparent.
In order to pinpoint the underlying cause of your runny nose, you should make an appointment for an evaluation with your primary care provider.
The following outlines a list of some of the most common causes associated with a runny nose; however, the causes are not just limited to the following:
- Sinusitis
- Cold Temperatures
- Dry Air
- Dust
- Allergy to Dust Mites
- Food Allergy
- Hormonal Changes
- Influenza
- Medications
- Perfume
- Pet Dander
- Spicy Foods
- Smoke
- Environmental Pollutants
Home Remedies for Runny Nose
If you suffer from a runny nose, you know all too well the complications that may occur with the issue. Examples include high stress levels, the inability to rest comfortably, and compromising the ability to perform day-to-day activities; not to mention the embarrassment that often accompanies the issue.
As promised, the following outlines the top 15 home remedies for runny nose:
1. Steam
The inhalation of steam is said to do wonders when it comes to nasal complications, according to medical professionals. When you inhale steam, it aids in loosening the mucus that is present in the nose. It also aids in flushing out the infections and/or other types of irritations that are enhancing the symptoms that you are experiencing.
Steam is an absolutely wonderful way to soothe and moisten the mucus membranes that line the nose. The following outlines the best methods for steam inhalation:
First, boil several cups of filtered water. Once completed, pour it into a large bowl and place it on a solid surface. Then, place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl. You should breathe in the steam for up to 15 minutes, or, for as long as you are able to tolerate, comfortably.
The next method of steam inhalation is to take either a hot bath or shower and remain in the room where the steam is circulating for approximately 15 minutes.
Additionally, you may add either menthol oil or eucalyptus oil to the boiling water mentioned previously, or in a hot shower to enhance the benefits of steam to the nasal cavity.
2. Salt Water
Salt water is a very productive natural remedy to curing a runny nose. According to doctors, a salt water solution has the unique capability of removing mucus and flushing irritants and/or infections from the nose. You may use the following methods to utilize salt water in the nose:
First, combine ½ teaspoon of salt and the same amount of baking soda in a cup of water that is distilled and room temperature. Once the solution has been completely mixed, you may use a medical syringe to place a small amount of the substance into the nose.
Next, you may choose to use steam inhalation to push the saltwater into the nose. Simply boil tap water. Once the water reaches a boil, place several tablespoons of salt into the mixture and pour it into a bowl on a solid surface. Next, place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl in order to breathe in the salt water.
Finally, if you live in close proximity to bodies of salt water, such as the Atlantic Ocean, you may visit the area and walk along the beach for 30 minutes to an hour. The moisture in the air contains natural sea salts that will be inhaled and aid in clearing your nose.
3. Consume Large Amounts of Fluids
The next of the most popular home remedies for runny nose is to consume a large amount of fluids. You should drink water and clear broths. These fluids will help in thinning the mucus that is in your nose.
Additionally, you may drink fluids that are hot, as these will soothe the symptoms of a runny nose. Examples include hot teas, hot milks, and hot beverages that include cinnamon and/or peppermint.
You will find, as you consume these fluids that the mucus drains faster from the sinuses and you are able to get more mucus out as you blow your nose.
4. Eliminate Potential Allergens and/or Irritants
When it comes to home remedies for runny nose, no list would be complete without including the remedy of eliminating potential allergens and/or irritants in and around the home. There are certain allergens that, when present in the home, may cause allergic-based reactions.
Examples include dust, dust mites, pollen, mold, mildew, pet dander, and other forms of dirt and debris. Additionally, if certain irritants are present in and/or around the home, you may develop a runny nose.
Examples of these include certain types of paints with strong odors, chemical-based fumes from over-the-counter cleaning products, perfumes, and strong odors.
By taking the time to thoroughly clean and rid the home of allergens and irritants, you are sure to overcome that runny nose that consistently complicates your life.
5. Use More Garlic
According to numerous studies, garlic has unique properties that make it both an antibacterial agent and an antiseptic agent. You may ingest the substance, or, inhale it – your choice. The following outlines some effective measures for using this particular home remedy:
First, you may boil garlic in distilled water. Once the solution is finished, place it in a bowl on a sturdy surface. Then, place a towel over your head and breathe in the solution for up to 15 minutes.
Next, add garlic to dishes that you prepare for consumption. Examples include casseroles, soups, and salads. You may even prepare garlic broths and teas especially for your runny nose.
Finally, you may crush approximately 3 to 5 cloves of garlic until they become a fine paste. Once the paste is present, breathe in the smell that is emitted from it. This will, instantly, aid in clearing the nasal passageways.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural remedy that is beneficial for many health conditions – including runny nose. It possesses properties that make it an anti-inflammatory agent, an antiviral agent, an antibacterial agent, and an antioxidant. The following outlines the ways in which you may use turmeric in order to combat that runny nose:
First, you may mix the substance with a cup of the oil of linseed and heat the solution. Then, once the mixture starts to create smoke, you may inhale the smoke.
Next, you may create a tea using a couple of teaspoons of turmeric or boil water and add turmeric and ingest the substance twice a day in order to eliminate a runny nose.
7. Ginger
The next of the natural remedies for runny nose is ginger. This substance combats viruses, fungus, and other toxins that may result in the onset of runny nose. These are many ways that ginger may be used. The most popular methods include the following:
First, you may peel ginger and chew on the pieces several times each day.
Second, you may create an herbal tea by boiling ginger slices in water and add lemon extract and sugar, to taste. Ginger is also a great home remedy for nausea.
Finally, you may boil ginger slices in water and then pour the water into a bowl. Place a towel over your head and lean over the mixture and breathe it in to alleviate the mucus that causes a runny nose.
8. Honey
Honey has longed been used as a natural remedy for many medical issues. In recent years, it has been determined that its antibacterial agents and its antiviral properties make it an excellent choice for curing a runny nose. If you want to use honey to clear up that mucus, you may do the following:
First, you may combine a spoonful of honey with several drops of lemon juice into warm water and drink the mixture two to three times a day.
If you prefer, you may actually consume a tablespoon of honey each day in order to optimize your body’s immune system.
You may add honey as an ingredient to meals and snacks that you consume. Examples include placing honey in oatmeal, putting honey on bread, and so on and so forth.
9. Acupressure
When it comes to natural remedies for runny nose, many claim that acupressure is highly productive. In order to use this remedy, you simply press on the corner of the nose. There is a pressure point in this region.
This will aid in alleviating congestion in the sinus cavity. You may also apply pressure to the region that is situated just about the eyes. This, too, is said to reduce excess mucus in the nasal cavities.
10. Cayenne Pepper
If you are searching for a natural remedy for runny nose that will work quickly and effectively, you are sure to benefit from the use of cayenne pepper.
This food product contains a natural antihistamine that will increase the discharge from the nose, but, will effectively flush the toxins and/or irritants that are causing the excess drainage.
11. Use a Humidifier
If you are searching for home remedies for runny nose, you should consider utilizing a humidifier. This specially-designed home product will increase the amount of air that present within the home.
In turn, this increases the rate in which mucus is drained from the nose.
12. Onion
Believe it or not, onion is actually considered to be one of the best home remedies for runny nose. This is especially true if the runny nose that you have is because of an infection that stems from a bacterial, fungi, and/or virus. Onions contain sulfur.
This is the substance that makes you tear up when you cut an onion. The sulfur in the onion will aid in loosening up any and all mucus in the nose and help expel it quickly.
The best way to benefit from onion is to boil it in water and breathe in the moisture. If you are really stuffed up and are looking for a good home remedy for cough and congestion to help with all the phlegm as well, you could try the honey onion syrup recipe. It works wonders on coughs, colds and runny noses.
13. Eucalyptus
If you observe the ingredients on many over-the-counter medications, you will find that eucalyptus is a common one among all that focus on treating the symptoms of a cold and/or influenza.
This substance acts as a decongestant because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is effective in controlling mucus. The easiest way to benefit from this is to breathe in the aroma from eucalyptus oil.
14. Sage
The next of the most popular home remedies for runny nose is sage. Sage is both an anti-bacterial and an anti-inflammatory. One of the best ways to reap the rewards of this herbal remedy is to create a sage tea using dry sage leaves and hot water. To optimize the taste, you may also add a touch of honey and sugar to the tea.
15. Astragalus Root
This herb has been long used in Chinese medicine in order to prevent colds and to aid in curing the symptoms associated with colds.
The root has the unique ability to strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body. In order to eliminate your runny nose, place the root with salt and seasonings in water to create a soup that may be consumed up to twice daily.
If you like, you may just create a tea by combining the root with regular tea and heating it before ingestion.
Conclusion
As you can see from the information in this comprehensive guide, there are many home remedies for runny nose. Most of the remedies that you have been introduced to may be breathed in, consumed as a food or beverage, or placed directly in the nostrils.
If you have a runny nose, it is important that you determine the underlying cause of the condition. As with any treatment, before using any of the home remedies for runny nose outlined here, you should consult with a medical doctor. This way, the underlying cause may be identified and the natural treatment you want to use may be approved.