10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Nasal Congestion

Herbal tinctures for nasal congestion are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and spices that help to alleviate nasal congestion caused by allergies, colds, or sinusitis.

These natural remedies work by soothing and opening up the airways, reducing inflammation, and thinning mucus, making it easier to breathe. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with nasal congestion include eucalyptus, peppermint, and thyme, which can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to warm water for a soothing drink.

This natural relief can improve lives by providing quick and effective symptom management, allowing individuals to breathe easier, sleep better, and enjoy daily activities without nasal congestion holding them back.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for nasal congestion, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with nasal congestion because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated nasal passages.

The herb contains compounds like echinacoside and isobutylamides that work together to reduce swelling and open up airways, allowing for easier breathing. Additionally, the expectorant properties of purple coneflower help loosen and clear out excess mucus and congestion, providing relief from stuffy noses and sinus pressure.

This natural remedy can provide quick and effective relief from nasal congestion without harsh chemicals or medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Icariin: Icariin helps with nasal congestion by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the inflammation and swelling associated with nasal congestion.
• Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid helps with nasal congestion by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce the severity of nasal congestion and promote healing.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides help with nasal congestion by modulating the immune response and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and leukotrienes, which contribute to nasal congestion and other allergy symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Roots: Contain a high concentration of echinacoside, a compound that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
• Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections causing nasal congestion.
• Buds: Contain high levels of alkylamides, which may help reduce inflammation and relieve nasal congestion symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for nasal congestion.

1. Gather 1 part of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and roots, 2 parts of vodka or glycerin as solvent.
2. Combine the dried echinacea purpurea and solvent in a clean glass jar, store in a cool dark place.
3. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily, to allow for extraction of active compounds.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container, discard the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles, label and date them, store in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

2. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with nasal congestion because of its natural decongestant properties.

The tannins present in the tincture help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing and relief from stuffiness. Additionally, the expectorant properties of Tasmanian blue gum help to loosen and clear out mucus, further alleviating congestion.

By using this natural remedy, individuals can find effective relief from nasal congestion without relying on harsh chemicals or medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Eucalyptol: As a potent decongestant and expectorant, eucalyptol helps to break down and clear mucus from the nasal passages, relieving congestion.
• Cineole: Similar to eucalyptol, cineole has decongestant and expectorant properties, helping to reduce nasal congestion and make it easier to breathe.
• Α-pinene: α-Pinene has a bronchodilatory effect, which means it helps to relax the muscles in the airways, reducing inflammation and making it easier to breathe.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Eucalyptus globulus for tinctures, as they contain a high concentration of eucalyptol, a key compound responsible for relieving nasal congestion.
• Barks: Barks are another commonly used part, as they are rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help to reduce inflammation and ease nasal congestion.
• Stems: Stems are occasionally used for tinctures, containing various compounds that help to decongest the nasal passages and reduce mucus production.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves by cutting them from the plant during the peak summer months.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by gently rinsing them with water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine 1 part of the cleaned eucalyptus globulus leaves with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the eucalyptus globulus mixture in the vodka for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the eucalyptus globulus tincture by pouring it through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with nasal congestion because it contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties.

When inhaled as a spray or taken orally as a tincture, glycyrrhizin works to reduce inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing and relief from congestion. Additionally, licorice tinctures can also help thin mucus, making it easier to expel and further reducing congestion.

This natural remedy provides fast and effective relief from nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, or other respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures help with nasal congestion by reducing inflammation and promoting the clearance of mucus from the nasal passages.
• Flavonoids: Isoflavones in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures help with nasal congestion by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and calm the nasal mucosa.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures helps with nasal congestion by acting as a natural expectorant, helping to thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the nasal passages.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce swelling in the nasal passages.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and glycosides, which have been found to have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate nasal congestion.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain glycosides and flavonoids that have been used to make tinctures for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to clear mucus and reduce nasal congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest 1 part of the roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
2. Clean and dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Chop 1 part of the dried roots into small pieces and macerate them in 5 parts of 95 percent ethanol for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the liquid in a glass bottle.
5. Allow the tincture to mature for 4 to 6 weeks before using it as a herbal remedy.

4. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with nasal congestion because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages.

The menthol present in peppermint oil also helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and reducing congestion. Additionally, peppermint's cooling sensation can help to open up airways, promoting clear breathing and relieving sinus pressure.

Overall, herbal peppermint tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for alleviating nasal congestion and promoting healthy respiratory function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Menthol: Menthol helps with nasal congestion by acting as a natural expectorant and decongestant, thinning mucus and making it easier to expel.
• Menthone: Menthone contributes to the decongestant properties of Mentha x piperita, helping to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.
• Eucalyptol: Eucalyptol acts as a bronchodilator and decongestant, helping to open up airways and reduce nasal congestion by thinning mucus and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Leaves: The menthol and menthone in peppermint leaves provide a cooling effect that helps to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
• Stems: The stems of peppermint contain menthol and other compounds that help to decongest the nasal passages and reduce inflammation.
• Roots: The roots of peppermint contain menthone and other volatile oils that help to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure, while also promoting relaxation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest 50g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the herbs thoroughly with a soft brush to remove dirt and debris from the plant material.
3. Combine the cleaned herbs with 250ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow the tincture to extract fully.
5. Strain the tincture through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids immediately.

5. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with nasal congestion because its active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, have natural decongestant properties.

When taken orally or used in a neti pot rinse, these compounds help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing and improved airflow.

Additionally, thyme's antimicrobial properties help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to congestion, making it a holistic and effective solution for relieving nasal congestion and promoting sinus health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic compound that helps break down and dissolve thick mucus in the nasal passages, making it easier to expel and relieve congestion.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a monoterpene that has a decongestant effect by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate is a sesquiterpene that has a bronchodilatory effect, helping to relax the muscles in the airways and increase airflow, which can help relieve nasal congestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Leaves: They contain thymol, a compound that helps to clear nasal congestion and reduce inflammation.
• Flowers: They are rich in essential oils, particularly thymol and linalool, which help to relieve nasal congestion and promote sinus drainage.
• Stems: They contain thymol and other essential oils that help to reduce inflammation and promote the clearance of nasal congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest thymus vulgaris flowers and leaves at peak potency for maximum medicinal properties and flavor.
2. Chop the plant material finely to increase surface area for efficient solvent penetration and extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with a 60 to 80 percent ethanol or glycerin solvent ratio in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow for complete solvent extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove plant material.

6. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with nasal congestion because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses.

The bioactive compounds present in sage, such as rosmarinic acid and camphor, also have a decongestant effect, helping to clear mucus and phlegm from the airways.

Additionally, sage tincture's expectorant properties help to loosen and remove excess mucus, providing fast and effective relief from nasal congestion caused by colds, allergies, or sinusitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound is known for its anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, which help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.
• Salvianolic acid a: This phenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate nasal congestion.
• Bornyl acetate: This terpene has expectorant properties, which help to thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel and relieve nasal congestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Salvia officinalis for making tinctures due to their high concentration of essential oils and medicinal compounds.
• Stems: Stems are also used to make tinctures due to their ability to contribute to the overall medicinal properties of the plant, particularly for respiratory issues.
• Roots: Roots are sometimes used to make tinctures for their potential to enhance the effectiveness of the herbal remedy, although they are less commonly used than leaves or stems.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present on the plant.
2. Dry the harvested material in a single layer for 2 weeks or until it reaches a brittle state.
3. Grind 10 parts of dried salvia officinalis into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 30 minutes.
4. Mix 1 part of the powdered material with 2 parts of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
5. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.

7. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with nasal congestion because of its natural expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the nasal passages.

The bioactive compounds found in fennel, such as anethole and limonene, have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and swelling that can contribute to congestion.

Additionally, fennel's natural antimicrobial properties help to combat sinus infections and other underlying causes of nasal congestion, promoting healthy breathing and sinus function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic compound, helps with nasal congestion by acting as a bronchodilator and mucolytic agent, which eases breathing and reduces mucus production.
• Bisabolol: Bisabolol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, helps with nasal congestion by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling in the nasal passages and relieving congestion.
• Dihydroanethole: Dihydroanethole, another phenolic compound, helps with nasal congestion by acting as an expectorant, facilitating the removal of mucus and other debris from the respiratory tract.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Seeds: Fennel seeds are commonly used due to their natural expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the nasal passages.
• Leaves: Fennel leaves are used in tinctures for their anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease congestion in the nasal passages.
• Roots: Fennel roots are used in tinctures for their diuretic and expectorant properties, which help to reduce fluid retention and loosen mucus, making it easier to expel from the body.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest 1 part of foeniculum vulgare roots and 1 part of foeniculum vulgare seeds on a dry sunny morning.
2. Clean the harvested foeniculum vulgare roots and seeds by rinsing them with water and gently scrubbing.
3. Combine 1 part of the cleaned foeniculum vulgare roots and 1 part of the cleaned foeniculum vulgare seeds in a clean glass jar.
4. Add 70 percent vodka to the jar to cover the foeniculum vulgare roots and seeds completely in a ratio of 3 to 1.
5. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking it gently every day.

8. Hydrangea arborescens

Treetop hydrangea tinctures helps with nasal congestion because it contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that effectively reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as quercetin and kaempferol, work to loosen mucus and ease breathing, providing rapid relief from stuffiness and congestion.

Additionally, the treetop hydrangea's natural properties help to combat infection and promote a healthy immune response, further supporting the body's natural defenses against nasal congestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures help with nasal congestion by reducing inflammation and acting as natural antihistamines to alleviate symptoms associated with allergies and sinusitis.
• Tannins: Tannins in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures help with nasal congestion by acting as natural astringents to reduce inflammation and congestion, also helping to dry up excess mucus and reduce coughing.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Hydrangea arborescens tinctures help with nasal congestion by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate congestion in the nasal passages.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of treetop hydrangea used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain antioxidants and flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.
• Roots: The roots are used because they are rich in arbutin, which is converted into hydroquinone in the body, a natural decongestant that can help alleviate nasal congestion.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can help alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic treetop hydrangea for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest fresh hydrangea arborescens flowers at peak bloom for maximum potency and efficiency.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm dark place for 2-4 weeks to remove excess moisture.
3. Chop the dried flowers into small pieces using a sharp blade for increased surface area.
4. Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80% vodka in a clean glass jar for tincture.
5. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar daily to extract.

9. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with nasal congestion because they contain a combination of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenes, which work synergistically to reduce inflammation and ease respiratory discomfort.

The tannins in dandelion help constrict blood vessels, reducing swelling and mucus production in the nasal passages. Additionally, the antioxidants present in dandelion tinctures can combat oxidative stress, further alleviating congestion and promoting clear breathing.

This natural remedy can provide effective relief from nasal congestion without the need for harsh chemicals or prescription medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Taraxasterols: These triterpene saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which help alleviate nasal congestion by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal tissues.
• Lectins: These proteins have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the nasal mucosa, thereby relieving nasal congestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate congestion.
• Roots: The roots have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, making them effective in loosening mucus and reducing nasal congestion.
• Stems: The stems contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties and help alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in early spring when the plant is at its highest potency level.
2. Clean and dry the harvested taraxacum officinale plant material using paper towels and a clean drying rack.
3. Combine 1 part taraxacum officinale plant material with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, and discard the solids.

10. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with nasal congestion because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to thin mucus and ease congestion, allowing for easier breathing and sinus drainage.

Additionally, ginger's natural decongestant properties can help to relieve pressure and discomfort associated with nasal congestion, providing quick and effective relief from colds, allergies, and other respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with nasal congestion.

• Zingiberene: A sesquiterpene, zingiberene has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and ease congestion in the nasal passages.
• Gingerol: A phenolic compound, gingerol has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help to break down mucus and reduce nasal congestion.
• Shogaol: A phenolic compound, shogaol has anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties that help to increase blood flow and reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for nasal congestion.

• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also commonly used for their similar active compounds, which help to reduce inflammation and relieve nasal congestion.
• Buds: The buds are used in tinctures for their high concentration of bioactive compounds, which aid in reducing inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for nasal congestion.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh zingiber officinale roots in late summer or early fall when the plants are mature.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better extraction.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for maceration and extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the solids.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for nasal congestion?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with nasal congestion is Echinacea and Eucalyptus.

Echinacea is an immune-boosting herb that helps fight off underlying infections, while Eucalyptus is a natural decongestant that loosens mucus and reduces inflammation in the nasal passages. Combining these two tinctures can provide quick relief from nasal congestion.

Additionally, adding a small amount of Thyme tincture can enhance the antibacterial properties and aid in the recovery process, promoting a faster relief from congestion.

What ailments similar to nasal congestion are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to nasal congestion that are treated with herbal tinctures are various respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic coughs.

Herbal tinctures like Thyme, Ginger, and Echinacea are often used to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and loosen mucus.

Other conditions treated with herbal tinctures include sinus infections, allergies, and hay fever, with herbs like Nettle, Quercetin, and Goldenrod providing relief from itching, sneezing, and congestion.