10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Post Nasal Drip

Herbal tinctures for post nasal drip are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that help alleviate symptoms associated with excess mucus production in the nasal passages.

These natural remedies work by soothing and thinning mucus, reducing congestion, and fighting off underlying infections that can cause post nasal drip. Examples of herbal tinctures that effectively combat post nasal drip include Thyme, Echinacea, and Goldenseal, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

By using these tinctures, people with post nasal drip can experience significant relief from discomfort and congestion, allowing them to breathe easier, sleep better, and live more comfortably.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with post nasal drip because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When inhaled, this compound soothes and calms irritated nasal passages and sinuses, reducing congestion and excess mucus production. Additionally, the expectorant properties of licorice help loosen and clear out thick phlegm, allowing for easier drainage and relief from the pesky sensation of post nasal drip.

As a result, herbal licorice tinctures can provide significant relief for those suffering from this common and uncomfortable condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the nasal mucosa, reducing irritation and post nasal drip.
• Coumarins: This phenolic compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which may help reduce nasal congestion, kill off bacteria that cause infections, and alleviate post nasal drip symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are commonly used to make tinctures for post nasal drip due to their expectorant properties, helping to thin mucus and promote its discharge.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are another part used to make tinctures for post nasal drip, as they contain compounds that help soothe and calm the mucous membranes.
• Barks: Glycyrrhiza glabra barks are also used to make tinctures for post nasal drip, likely due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat underlying infections contributing to the condition.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 1 part of vegetable glycerin for tincture base.
2. Combine 1 part of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
5. Mix the strained liquid with 1 part of vegetable glycerin and store the tincture in dark glass bottles.

2. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with post nasal drip because it contains compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.

The tincture's antiviral and antibacterial properties also work to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the post nasal drip.

Additionally, purple coneflower has been shown to possess mucolytic properties, breaking down mucus and making it easier to expel, providing relief from the uncomfortable sensation of excess mucus in the back of the throat and sinuses.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and alleviate post nasal drip symptoms.
• Alkaloids: Specifically, alkaloids like echinacoside and glycosides have been shown to exhibit antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, supporting the body's natural defenses against infections that may contribute to post nasal drip.
• Caffeic acid derivatives: These phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate post nasal drip by protecting the mucous membranes from oxidative damage.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea are believed to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce nasal congestion and post nasal drip.
• Flowers: The flowers contain compounds that have been traditionally used to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the nose, reducing post nasal drip.
• Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea purpurea contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with post nasal drip.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated using scissors for cleanliness.
2. Weigh 1 part dried echinacea flowers and leaves by mass and combine with 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the echinacea mixture in the vodka for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
5. Store the finished echinacea tincture in a dark glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2 years.

3. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with post nasal drip because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses.

The tannins present in dandelion also help to constrict blood vessels, further alleviating congestion and excess mucus production. Additionally, dandelion's bitter compounds stimulate digestion and promote the removal of excess phlegm from the body, thereby providing relief from postnasal drip and promoting a clearer respiratory tract.

As a result, herbal dandelion tinctures can be an effective natural remedy for soothing postnasal drip symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin helps to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, which can contribute to post nasal drip.
• Luteolin: As a flavonoid phenolic compound, luteolin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nasal passages and sinuses, reducing post nasal drip.
• Inulin: While not a traditional medicinal constituent, inulin, a type of fructan, can help to stimulate the mucous membranes and promote the clearance of mucus and debris from the nasal passages, reducing post nasal drip.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high content of mucilages that help soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the nose and throat.
• Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures because they contain compounds that help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make tinctures due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that help to thin mucus and promote drainage.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather taraxacum officinale roots and flowers in quantities of 1 part herb to 2 parts solvent.
2. Combine the gathered herb with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar covering the contents completely.
3. Place the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the mixture daily.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the clear liquid to smaller dropper bottles for storage and use as needed.

4. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with post nasal drip because it contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and sinuses.

The tannins in elderberry work to reduce excess mucus production, while the bioflavonoids and anthocyanins help to strengthen the mucous membrane's natural barrier function, reducing inflammation and congestion.

By doing so, elder tinctures provide relief from postnasal drip, allowing for easier breathing, improved sinus drainage, and a reduced risk of secondary infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with post nasal drip.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
• Saponins: The saponins in Sambucus nigra have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to combat infections and reduce nasal discharge associated with post nasal drip.
• Volatile oils: The terpenes in Sambucus nigra, including limonene and borneol, have expectorant properties, helping to thin and clear mucus from the nasal passages, relieving post nasal drip.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for post nasal drip.

• Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help alleviate post nasal drip symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used for their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
• Fruits: They are used due to their high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nose and throat.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for post nasal drip.

1. Harvest 50g of fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves from a pesticide-free environment in late summer.
2. Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer using a food dehydrator at 40°c for 6 hours.
3. Combine the dried sambucus nigra material with 500ml of 60% glycerin in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar daily with a dropper.
5. Strain the tincture through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

5. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with post nasal drip because of its ability to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and lungs.

The mucilage properties in marshmallow root work to thicken and lubricate mucus, making it easier to expel and reducing congestion. This natural anti-inflammatory also calms irritated tissues, allowing for clearer breathing and a reduction in postnasal drip symptoms.

As a result, marshmallow tinctures offer a gentle yet effective solution for relieving the discomfort associated with postnasal drip.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with post nasal drip.

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrate molecules help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with post nasal drip.
• Irritinin: This thick, protective compound forms a physical barrier on the mucous membranes, trapping allergens and irritants and preventing them from entering the nasal passages, thus alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
• Gallic acid: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, gallic acid helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal passages, promoting healing and reducing the frequency and severity of post nasal drip episodes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for post nasal drip.

• Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are most commonly used to make tinctures for post nasal drip because they contain high concentrations of mucilages, which help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nose and throat.
• Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are also used, although less commonly, due to their ability to aid in the reduction of inflammation and provide additional soothing properties to the nasal passages.
• Stems: Althaea officinalis stems are occasionally used, as they contain similar mucilages to the roots and leaves, but in smaller amounts, which can still contribute to the overall efficacy of the tincture.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for post nasal drip.

1. Gather 250g of dried althaea officinalis root and 500ml of 70% vodka as the solvent.
2. Combine the dried root with 500ml of 70% vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
5. Label and store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

6. Phellodendron amurense

Amur corktree tinctures helps with post nasal drip because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the nasal passages.

The tincture's expectorant qualities help to loosen and clear out excess mucus, reducing congestion and relieving the feeling of drainage down the back of the throat. Additionally, Amur corktree's antimicrobial properties may help to combat underlying infections that can contribute to post nasal drip.

By addressing the root causes of post nasal drip, Amur corktree tinctures provide effective relief from this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Phellodendron amurense tinctures that help with post nasal drip.

• Berberine: Acts as a natural expectorant, helping to thin and clear mucus from the nasal passages and sinuses, thereby reducing post nasal drip.
• Phellodendrine: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to combat infections that may be contributing to post nasal drip, and also has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce nasal congestion and discharge.
• Catechin: Possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal passages, alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of amur corktree used to make tinctures for post nasal drip.

• Barks: Barks are used because they contain berberine, a compound that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate post nasal drip symptoms.
• Leaves: Leaves are used because they contain phellodendrine, a compound that has expectorant properties, helping to thin and clear mucus from the nasal passages.
• Roots: Roots are used because they contain berberine and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce swelling and combat infections causing post nasal drip.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic amur corktree for post nasal drip.

1. Harvest the dried phellodendron amurense bark in quantities of 250-500 grams from a trusted supplier or local market.
2. Combine the dried bark with 80% ethanol or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every 2-3 days to facilitate extraction.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and label them with the date and contents for future reference.

7. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey tinctures helps with post nasal drip because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.

The tannins present in comfrey also have astringent properties that can help to dry up excess mucus, providing relief from the constant sensation of dripping or running nose.

Additionally, comfrey's soothing and calming effects on the mucous membranes can help to ease discomfort and promote healing of the nasal tissues, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating postnasal drip symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale tinctures that help with post nasal drip.

• Allantoin: Allantoin is a glycosidic compound that helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and irritation associated with post nasal drip.
• Rutoside: Rutoside, a flavonoid glycoside, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
• Symphytine: Symphytine, a sesquiterpene lactone, exhibits anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, helping to break down and clear excess mucus in the nasal passages and sinuses, thereby relieving post nasal drip symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make tinctures for post nasal drip.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part, as they contain a high concentration of mucilages, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes.
• Roots: The roots are also used due to their high content of mucilages and other compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the nasal passages.
• Stems: The stems are another part used in tincture production, as they contain a mix of mucilages and other bioactive compounds that help to calm and protect the mucous membranes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for post nasal drip.

1. Harvest fresh symphytum officinale leaves and roots in the morning to ensure optimal potency and freshness.
2. Clean and dry the harvested symphytum officinale leaves and roots to prevent contamination and spoilage.
3. Use a 1:2 ratio of plant material to solvent such as 250ml of 80% ethanol and add it to the dried plant material.
4. Steep the plant material in the solvent for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the tincture and discard the solids then store it in a clean dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

8. Prunus avium

Cherry tinctures helps with post nasal drip because they contain powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that target the underlying causes of this annoying condition.

The anthocyanins in cherry tincture have been shown to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, while its natural expectorant properties help loosen and clear out mucus, providing quick relief from congestion and sinus pressure.

Additionally, cherry tincture's antimicrobial properties may also help combat underlying infections that can contribute to postnasal drip.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Prunus avium tinctures that help with post nasal drip.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating post-nasal drip symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant activities that can help combat infections and inflammation in the nasal tract, thereby reducing post-nasal drip.
• Glycosides: These plant-derived compounds have been shown to possess expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, including the nasal passages, which can help alleviate post-nasal drip.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cherry used to make tinctures for post nasal drip.

• Fruits: The fruits are used due to their high content of anthocyanins and other antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and soothe the nasal passages.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their salicylic acid content, which helps to reduce inflammation and thin mucus, making it easier to expel.
• Barks: The barks are used due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to dry up excess mucus and reduce nasal congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cherry for post nasal drip.

1. Harvest prunus avium flowers and leaves in early summer when they are in full bloom for optimal potency.
2. Clean and dry the prunus avium flowers and leaves thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
3. Combine 1 part of prunus avium flowers and leaves with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily to ensure extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.

9. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with post nasal drip because of its natural decongestant properties, which help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses.

The menthol content in peppermint also acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear out mucus and phlegm from the throat and nasal passages.

Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes, providing fast relief from postnasal drip symptoms such as congestion, coughing, and runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Menthol helps with post nasal drip by acting as a natural decongestant and expectorant, reducing nasal congestion and promoting the clearance of mucus from the nasal passages.
• Limonene: Limonene, a monoterpenoid, has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and kill bacteria that can contribute to post nasal drip.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce nasal congestion and inflammation, making it easier to expel mucus and alleviate post nasal drip symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part for making tinctures to treat post nasal drip due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which have decongestant and expectorant properties.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are also used to make tinctures for post nasal drip relief, as they contain similar compounds to the leaves, such as menthol and menthone.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes, or underground stems, are another part of the plant used to make tinctures for post nasal drip, due to their ability to be distilled for their menthol and menthone content.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces and transfer it to a clean glass jar.
3. Combine the chopped material with 500ml of 30% ethanol in the jar and seal it tightly.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks shaking occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard solids.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with post nasal drip because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated nasal passages and sinuses.

The herbal extract contains thymol, a powerful essential oil that has been traditionally used to ease congestion and reduce mucus production.

When taken as a tincture, thyme's natural decongestant properties help to thin out excess mucus, making it easier to expel, thereby providing relief from the discomfort of post nasal drip.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Thymol is a monoterpene that has antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause post nasal drip.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a phenolic monoterpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the nasal passages, sinuses, and throat, alleviating post nasal drip symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the primary source of essential oils, which contain thymol, a compound that helps reduce mucus and alleviate congestion.
• Stems: They contain a high concentration of thymol and other volatile compounds that aid in relieving respiratory issues, including post-nasal drip.
• Buds: They are rich in essential oils and have antimicrobial properties, which help combat infections that may be contributing to post-nasal drip.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in the morning when they are at their highest oil content.
2. Chop 250 grams of the fresh leaves and add them to a glass jar.
3. Combine 750 milliliters of 80% vodka with the chopped leaves and seal the jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with post nasal drip is a blend of Echinacea, Thyme, and Eucalyptus.

Echinacea supports the immune system and reduces inflammation, while Thyme has antimicrobial properties that combat bacterial and fungal infections. Eucalyptus, rich in expectorants, helps to clear mucus and congestion from the nasal passages. Taking these tinctures individually or in combination, 2-3 times a day, can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

Consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.

What ailments similar to post nasal drip are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to post nasal drip that are treated with herbal tinctures are sinusitis, allergies, and bronchial congestion.

Tinctures made from herbs such as Goldenseal, Echinacea, and Ginkgo Biloba help to reduce inflammation and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, providing relief from these conditions.

Additionally, tinctures containing herbs like Peppermint and Thyme can soothe a sore throat and ease congestion, offering comprehensive support for respiratory health.