By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Post Nasal Drip
Herbal teas for post nasal drip are a natural remedy that helps alleviate the discomfort caused by excess mucus production in the nasal passages.
These teas typically contain herbs such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and ginger, which have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking herbal teas like thyme, rosemary, and licorice root can help reduce post nasal drip, relieving congestion and allowing individuals to breathe more easily.
Improved breathing can greatly enhance daily life, enabling people to engage in physical activities, enjoy meals without discomfort, and get a good night's sleep.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for post nasal drip, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Thymus vulgaris
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Phyllanthus niruri
- 6. Verbena officinalis
- 7. Matricaria chamomilla
- 8. Eucalyptus globulus
- 9. Mentha x piperita
- 10. Sambucus nigra
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for post nasal drip?
- What ailments similar to post nasal drip are treated with herbal teas?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with post nasal drip because it contains anti-inflammatory properties and bioactive compounds that help soothe and calm the nasal passages.
The tea's ability to reduce inflammation and congestion makes it an effective remedy for relieving post nasal drip symptoms.
By promoting a healthy immune response and alleviating sinus pressure, Echinacea angustifolia tea provides relief from nasal discharge and discomfort associated with post nasal drip.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
- Alkylamides: These bioactive compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe the nasal mucosa, reducing mucus production and post nasal drip.
- Norditerpenes: These compounds have antimicrobial properties that may help combat underlying infections contributing to post nasal drip, while also reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Roots: They are used for their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infections and reduce congestion.
- Leaves: They are utilized for their decongestant and expectorant properties, making it easier to expel mucus and relieve nasal drip.
- Flowers: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and protect the respiratory tract and reduce nasal congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for post nasal drip.
- Gather 1 ounce of dried echinacea angustifolia roots and 1 quart of boiling water for tea preparation.
- Steep 2 teaspoons of dried roots in boiling water for 5 minutes to release active compounds.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids completely.
- Store the tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Drink 1 to 3 cups of tea daily for immune system support and general health benefits.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.
The roots of the plant contain a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and congestion. This can help to thin and clear out excess mucus, relieving the sensation of post nasal drip.
The tea also has a sweet, soothing flavor that can help to calm the throat and promote a sense of relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce inflammation and combat infections in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating post nasal drip.
- Licoricidin: This flavonoid glycoside has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the nasal mucosa from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the symptoms of post nasal drip.
- Licorice acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help reduce inflammation and irritation in the nasal passages, thereby providing relief from post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Roots: The roots are widely used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and thin mucus.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a smaller but still significant amount of glycyrrhizin, making them a more accessible alternative to the roots.
- Stems: The stems are utilized because they contain a moderate amount of glycyrrhizin and other compounds that help to soothe and calm the nasal passages.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for post nasal drip.
- Harvest 10 to 15 dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra for making tea.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep one teaspoon of chopped glycyrrhiza glabra roots in a cup of boiling water for five minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to remove any impurities.
- Serve the tea immediately and drink one to two cups as needed.
3. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, work to break down and clear excess mucus from the nasal passages. This helps to reduce congestion and alleviate the sensation of post nasal drip.
Additionally, thyme's antimicrobial properties help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the condition, promoting a healthier respiratory system.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Thymol: Thymol helps with post nasal drip by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, thereby reducing the growth of bacteria and fungi that can contribute to nasal congestion and mucus production.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol helps with post nasal drip by acting as a mucolytic agent, breaking down and thinning mucus, making it easier to expel and providing relief from nasal congestion.
- Linalool: Linalool helps with post nasal drip by exhibiting expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, reducing nasal congestion and promoting a sense of relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Leaves: They contain thymol, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and congestion, making them suitable for teas addressing post nasal drip.
- Buds: They have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections causing post nasal drip and promote overall respiratory health.
- Stems: They contain essential oils that can help ease congestion and promote expectoration, providing relief from post nasal drip.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for post nasal drip.
- Harvest 1 tablespoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves from a clean source.
- Boil 1 cup of fresh water in a kettle for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Steep the dried thymus vulgaris leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
- Serve the herbal tea hot or chilled within 10 minutes of preparation.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and expectorant abilities.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, help to thin mucus and promote its expulsion from the nasal passages. Additionally, ginger's warming and soothing effects can provide relief from congestion and coughing.
As a result, ginger teas can provide effective relief from post nasal drip, helping to clear the nasal passages and promote a sense of comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpenes have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating post nasal drip.
- Shogaols: As a type of gingerol, shogaols exhibit antimicrobial activity that helps combat infections causing post nasal drip, promoting a healthy nasal environment.
- Zingibain: This proteolytic enzyme has mucolytic properties, breaking down mucus and phlegm, making it easier to expel and reducing the likelihood of post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make teas for post nasal drip as they contain similar active compounds to the rhizomes, which help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.
- Buds: Buds of Zingiber officinale are sometimes used to make teas for post nasal drip due to their high concentration of essential oils, which have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve nasal congestion and post nasal drip symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for post nasal drip.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried zingiber officinale root and 1 cup of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the dried zingiber officinale root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup.
- Add honey or sugar to taste and mix well to sweeten the tea.
- Serve the tea hot immediately or let it cool before refrigerating for later use.
5. Phyllanthus niruri
Phyllanthus niruri, also known as galangal, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbal tea is believed to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, helping to alleviate the symptoms of post nasal drip. Additionally, Phyllanthus niruri is thought to have a decongestant effect, helping to clear mucus and phlegm from the nasal cavity.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe nasal irritation and promote healthy sinus function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Phyllanthus niruri teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Phyllanthus niruri, such as phyllanthin and amarogentin, help reduce inflammation and mucous production in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and protect the nasal mucosa, reducing congestion and post nasal drip.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as phyllanthus acid, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help to combat infections and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of galangal used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part for making teas to treat post nasal drip due to their high concentration of flavonoids and saponins with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Buds are used for teas as they contain flavonoids and alkaloids that help in reducing nasal congestion and alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
- Stems: Stems are another part used to make teas, as they contain flavonoids and saponins that help in reducing inflammation and relieving post nasal drip.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic galangal for post nasal drip.
- Harvest fresh phyllanthus niruri leaves and flowers from a trusted source with clean scissors in the early morning.
- Rinse the harvested leaves and flowers with cold running water to remove dirt and impurities gently.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of the fresh leaves and flowers for a single serving in a digital scale.
- Steep the measured leaves and flowers in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes in a teapot.
- Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids after the steeping time has elapsed completely.
6. Verbena officinalis
Verbena officinalis, also known as lemon verbena, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its natural anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
The tea's volatile oils, such as citral and geranial, help to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, alleviating congestion and excess mucus production. Additionally, its soothing and calming effects on the respiratory system help to relax the nasal tissues, reducing the sensation of post nasal drip and promoting a sense of comfort and relief.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for those suffering from post nasal drip.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Verbascoside: Verbascoside is a phenolic glycoside that helps reduce inflammation and mucus production in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce nasal congestion and mucus production, making it easier to breathe and alleviate post nasal drip.
- Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid is a phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that may help to reduce nasal inflammation and combat infections that contribute to post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Leaves: The leaves of Verbena officinalis are used to make teas due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve post nasal drip.
- Flowers: Verbena officinalis flowers are used in teas to help loosen and clear mucus, providing relief from post nasal drip.
- Roots: The roots of Verbena officinalis are used to make teas that help reduce inflammation and soothe the throat, providing relief from post nasal drip.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for post nasal drip.
- Harvest fresh verbena officinalis leaves and flowers by cutting the stems near the base of the plant.
- Dry the harvested plant material by tying it in small bundles and hanging it upside down in a warm well-ventilated area for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered verbena officinalis in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to make the tea.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving it hot or cold.
7. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The tea soothes and calms the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and congestion. The flavonoids and apigenin present in chamomile tea help to relax the muscles in the nose and throat, reducing the production of excess mucus that can cause post nasal drip.
This natural remedy promotes a healthy environment in the nasal passages, allowing for proper drainage and relief from the symptoms of post nasal drip.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps alleviate post nasal drip by reducing inflammation and promoting the constriction of blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby reducing nasal congestion and discharge.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help combat post nasal drip by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal mucosa, thereby alleviating symptoms of congestion and discharge.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat post nasal drip by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of bacteria that can exacerbate nasal congestion and discharge.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Flowers: The flowers are commonly used to make teas due to their high content of apigenin, an antioxidant that helps soothe and calm the respiratory system.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas that help reduce inflammation and congestion associated with post nasal drip.
- Stems: The stems are sometimes used to make teas that aid in relaxing the throat muscles and reducing coughs caused by post nasal drip.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for post nasal drip.
- Gather 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers and 1 cup of boiling water for herbal tea.
- Steep the matricaria chamomilla flowers in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active ingredients.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers.
- Add honey to taste if desired to sweeten the herbal tea.
- Consume the herbal tea immediately after preparation for optimal benefits from matricaria chamomilla.
8. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its decongestant and expectorant properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as eucalyptol, help to thin mucus and make it easier to expel, reducing congestion and discomfort associated with post nasal drip. Additionally, eucalyptus globulus tea's anti-inflammatory properties may help to soothe and calm the nasal passages, promoting a sense of relief and comfort for individuals experiencing post nasal drip symptoms.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate respiratory issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Eucalyptol: As a potent expectorant, eucalyptol helps thin and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to expel post nasal drip.
- Catechins: Catechins exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, which in turn helps alleviate post nasal drip.
- Cineole-diol: This compound has been shown to exhibit mucolytic properties, helping break down and clear thick mucus and phlegm that contributes to post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Leaves: They are the primary source of eucalyptol, a compound that helps to relieve congestion and decongest the nasal passages.
- Barks: The bark contains salicylic acid, a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory that helps to soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
- Stems: The stems, specifically the young shoots, are also used to make tea, as they contain a high concentration of eucalyptol, which helps to clear mucus and relieve congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for post nasal drip.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh eucalyptus leaves by selecting young shoots with high oil content during peak season.
- Rinse the harvested eucalyptus leaves with cool water to remove dirt and impurities gently.
- Dry the eucalyptus leaves in a single layer for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content completely.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of dried eucalyptus leaves with 1 quart of boiling water for a standard infusion time.
- Steep the eucalyptus tea for 5-7 minutes to allow the essential oils to infuse properly.
9. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its natural decongestant and antihistamine properties.
The menthol in peppermint oil helps to thin mucus and promote its expulsion, reducing congestion and sinus pressure. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties may help to soothe and calm irritated nasal passages, while its expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out excess mucus, providing relief from the discomfort of post nasal drip.
This results in a more comfortable and congestion-free breathing experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Menthol: Menthol helps to thin out mucus, making it easier to expel, thereby reducing post nasal drip.
- Menthone: Menthone has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating post nasal drip.
- Linalool: Linalool is an expectorant, which means it helps to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to cough up and reducing post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have decongestant properties.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used for their strong mint flavor and aroma, which help to thin mucus and ease congestion.
- Buds: The buds are used for their delicate flavor and fragrance, which add to the tea's effectiveness in relieving post nasal drip symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for post nasal drip.
- Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a warm place for 7 to 10 days to preserve them.
- Chop the dried leaves and flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried mentha x piperita in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve it immediately while it is still warm to appreciate its flavor and aroma.
10. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with post nasal drip because of its potent antiviral and antibacterial properties.
The active compounds in Sambucus nigra, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to combat respiratory tract infections and inflammation. This helps to reduce mucus production, alleviate congestion, and soothe the throat, providing relief from the discomfort associated with post nasal drip.
By promoting healthy respiratory function, Sambucus nigra teas can help to alleviate symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with post nasal drip.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
- Tannins: Tannins have astringent properties that help to dry up excess mucus and reduce its production, thereby providing relief from post nasal drip.
- Phenolic acids: These acids exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infections and reduce nasal discharge associated with post nasal drip.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for post nasal drip.
- Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that help soothe and calm the respiratory tract.
- Leaves: The leaves are often used in teas to provide relief from post nasal drip due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fruits: The fruits, also known as elderberries, are used to make teas that help alleviate post nasal drip symptoms due to their high content of antioxidants and other compounds that aid in immune function and respiratory health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for post nasal drip.
- Gather sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in a quantity of 2 to 3 teaspoons per cup of boiling water.
- Steep the sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Add honey to taste and mix well to balance the bitter flavor of the tea.
- Let the tea steep for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to mature.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for post nasal drip?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with post nasal drip is a blend of Thyme, Echinacea, and Licorice root.
Thyme's decongestant properties help reduce mucus production, while Echinacea boosts the immune system to fight off underlying infections. Licorice root soothes the nasal passages and reduces inflammation.
Drinking a tea made from equal parts of these herbs several times a day can provide relief from post nasal drip, congestion, and coughs associated with colds and sinus infections.
What ailments similar to post nasal drip are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to post nasal drip that are treated with herbal teas are sinusitis, bronchitis, and allergies.
Herbal teas such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger help to ease congestion and open airways, reducing symptoms like coughing and sneezing.
Other teas like licorice root and slippery elm soothe irritated throats and nasal passages, while yarrow and sage tea can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage.