Best Home Remedies To Stop Running Nose

Are you suffering from a runny nose? As you found out on this blog, your answer might be yes. You might be looking for ways to stop a runny nose instantly.

This blog will share some of the best home remedies for runny noses.

A runny nose can be troubling and uncomfortable. It is a common symptom of allergies and viral infections. While it usually goes away independently, it may sometimes require treatment to improve. Let's read more and find out ways to stop a runny nose.

What is a Runny nose?

A runny nose, also known as rhinorrhea, is a condition in which the nasal passages produce excess mucus. It is a common condition in which the mucous membranes lining the nasopharynx produce mucus faster than it can be processed. As a result, the nasal cavities fill up, blocking the air passageway and causing difficulty breathing through the nose. 

What Causes a Runny Nose?

Several factors can trigger a runny nose, including:

• Common Cold or Flu- Viral infections such as the common cold and flu cause runny nose-like water. It can cause the nasal passages to produce excess mucus as a defense mechanism.
• Allergies—If you are allergic to pollen, dust, pet dander, or strong odors, you may experience an allergic reaction, which can cause nasal congestion and a runny nose.
• Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)- Inflammation of the sinuses due to bacterial or viral infection can lead to excessive mucus production and a runny nose.

Common Symptoms of a Runny Nose 

The common cold may cause various symptoms, including-

• Runny nose or nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Mild body aches
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Watery Eyes
• Sneezing Cough

10 Home Remedies for a Runny Nose

Here are some simple and effective home remedies that can help you relieve runny nose symptoms-

Steam Inhalation

Steam therapy is one of the most effective yet easy home remedies for a runny nose. You can inhale steam or take a steamy shower to relieve nasal congestion and the respiratory tract and make breathing easy. 

How to steam in a runny nose?

• Boil water and add a few drops of eucalyptus oil, peppermint oil, or turmeric.
• Cover your head with a towel. Now, inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.
• This helps clear nasal passages and reduce congestion.

Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)

Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that help fight infections.

How to use it?

• Add one teaspoon of turmeric powder to warm milk.
• You can drink it before bedtime to boost immunity and relieve a runny nose.

Ginger Tea

Ginger has been used since ancient times as an herbal remedy to treat many diseases, including the common cold. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties relieve cold and sore throat symptoms. Ginger also has natural antihistamine properties that help relieve cold symptoms.

How do you prepare ginger tea for a runny nose?

• To prepare ginger tea, boil fresh ginger slices in water and add honey.
• Drink this tea twice daily to soothe the throat and nasal irritation.

Tulsi (Holy Basil) Leaves

Tulsi contains antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant properties. It helps to clear the nasal passages and reduce inflammation. 

How do you use Tulsi leaves to treat a runny nose?

• Chew 4-5 fresh tulsi leaves, or make tulsi tea.

Lemon and Honey Drink

Honey contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to lower inflammation and irritation in the throat. In contrast, lemons contain vitamin C and antioxidants that boost the immune system, help break down mucus, and relieve nasal congestion.

How to prepare?

• Add honey and lemon to warm water to prepare a lemon-honey drink.
• You can drink this early in the morning to detoxify the body and relieve nasal congestion.

Mustard Oil Nasal Drops

Our grandparents used this traditional method to relieve themselves of colds and runny noses. You can also try mustard oil nasal drops to ease runny nose symptoms. They help thin mucus and moisten the nasal passage, clearing nasal congestion and providing instant relief.

How do you use Mustard oil nasal drops for a runny nose?

• Warm a few drops of mustard oil and apply it inside the nostrils.

Drink Hot Liquids

Hot soups and liquids can relieve runny nose symptoms. Try vegetable soups, chicken broth, and herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and tulsi to relieve nasal congestion. Sipping warm liquids will keep you hydrated and relieve runny nose symptoms. 

Consume Vitamin C Rich Foods

Vitamin C boosts the immune system and helps the body heal faster. If you are experiencing a runny nose, try these foods. 

Vitamin C Rich Foods

• Orange
• Mango
• Guava
• Kiwi
• Papaya
• Bell Peppers
• Broccoli
• Brussels Sprouts
• Lemons
• Grape Fruits
• Berries
• Pineapple

Saltwater Gargles

Saltwater gargles are another easy yet effective remedy for runny noses and sore throats. Salt has antimicrobial properties that can help control the growth of bacteria and viruses in the throat. If you are experiencing a runny nose, try frequent gargles with salt water to reduce inflammation and discomfort. 

This will clear your throat, wash away mucus, allergens, and irritants, and provide a soothing effect and relief from soreness.

How to prepare?

Add half a spoon of salt to lukewarm water and mix it well. Now, sip and gargle it for at least 1-2 minutes. 

How to Prevent the Spread of a Runny Nose?

Infection, allergic reactions, or pollutants can cause a runny nose. It can spread easily; therefore, it is important to prevent a runny nose:

1. Practice Good Hygiene

• Always wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Use tissues or a handkerchief when sneezing or coughing.

2. Avoid Close Contact

• Maintain distance from people with cold or flu symptoms.
• Do not touch or avoid touching your face frequently, especially the nose and mouth.

3. Boost Immunity

• Eat a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C (citrus fruits, amla), zinc (nuts, seeds), and antioxidants.
• Exercise regularly to strengthen the immune system.

4. Keep Your Environment Clean

• Disinfect surfaces like doors and tables frequently.
• Use air purifiers like camphor and cloves to cleanse the air.

5. Stay Hydrated

• Drink warm water, herbal teas, and broths to flush out toxins.

The Final Worlds

I hope you find some good home remedies to treat your runny nose. Whether you try steam inhalation, turmeric milk, ginger tea, honey, or tulsi tea, these home remedies will help ease your symptoms. Try out these remedies to get instant relief. Do not forget to maintain good hygiene, boost your immunity, and stay hydrated. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

Try these remedies and stay healthy the natural way!

FAQ

1. How to stop a runny nose fast?

To quickly relieve a runny nose, inhale steam using a saline nasal spray, stay hydrated, and apply a warm compress. 

2. What is the quickest way to dry up a runny nose?

To stop a runny nose, blow your nose, which will remove mucus from the nasal passage. 

3. What is the best drink to stop a runny nose?

To stop a runny nose, drink water, herbal teas like ginger, chamomile, and mint, and warm soups.

4. What fruit is good for a runny nose?

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and pineapples boost immunity and reduce inflammation.