10 Best Herbal Creams For Runny Nose

Herbal creams for runny nose are topical products infused with natural herbs and essential oils that help alleviate symptoms of nasal congestion and discharge.

They work by reducing inflammation, soothing the nasal passages, and promoting drainage. Examples include creams containing eucalyptus, peppermint, and menthol, which can be applied directly to the nose.

These creams improve lives by providing quick relief from runny nose, allowing individuals to breathe easily and go about their daily activities with minimal discomfort.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for runny nose, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with runny nose because it contains compounds that help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

The anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea purpurea help to calm the nasal passages and reduce congestion, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, the cream's soothing effects can help to calm the skin and reduce irritation, providing relief from the discomfort associated with a runny nose.

This natural remedy can provide quick relief and promote overall respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with runny nose.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, which can alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as chicoric acid and caffeic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the underlying causes of runny nose, such as infection or irritation.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides, including cis-11-alkylamides and cis-8-alkylamides, possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's immune response and reduce excessive mucus production.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for runny nose.

• Flowers: Echinacea purpurea flowers are commonly used to make creams for runny nose due to their high content of alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Echinacea purpurea roots are used for their immunomodulatory properties, which help to boost the immune system and reduce the severity of runny nose symptoms.
• Leaves: Echinacea purpurea leaves contain phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate runny nose symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for runny nose.

1. Harvest 100 grams of dried echinacea purpurea roots and leaves in the fall season.
2. Infuse 50 grams of the dried echinacea purpurea in 500 milliliters of cold-pressed oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
4. Mix 100 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of shea butter and 50 milliliters of the infused oil.
5. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.

2. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with runny nose because of its natural antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in Melissa officinalis, such as rosmarinic acid and borneol, have been shown to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate sinus pressure, thereby alleviating symptoms of a runny nose.

Additionally, its calming and soothing effects can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can often exacerbate respiratory issues, making it a popular natural remedy for runny nose relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with runny nose.

• Linalool: It is a terpene that acts as a natural decongestant, reducing nasal congestion and runny nose by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators.
• Rosmarinic acid: It is a phenolic compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate nasal congestion and runny nose by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal passages.
• Oleanolic acid: It is a triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help relieve nasal congestion and runny nose by reducing inflammation and promoting the clearance of mucus from the nasal passages.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for runny nose.

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, including borneol, which helps to reduce nasal discharge and relieve congestion.
• Flowers: They contain oils and compounds that have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, making them useful for treating runny nose.
• Stems: They also contain essential oils, including borneol, which helps to reduce nasal discharge and relieve congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for runny nose.

1. Infuse 100g of melissa officinalis dried flowers in 500ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to separate solids from liquids.
3. Combine the infused oil with 5g of beeswax and 5g of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt the ingredients.
4. Add 10 drops of vitamin e oil and mix well to preserve the cream and prevent spoilage effectively.
5. Pour the warm cream mixture into a clean glass jar and allow it to cool and solidify completely.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with runny nose because it contains thymol, a natural decongestant that helps to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate sinus pressure.

The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of thyme also help to combat infections and soothe the nasal passages, providing quick relief from runny nose symptoms. Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties help to thin and clear mucus, making it easier to breathe and providing long-lasting relief from congestion.

This makes thyme creams a popular natural remedy for runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with runny nose.

• Thymol: Thymol has antimicrobial properties that help reduce nasal congestion and inflammation caused by bacterial or viral infections, thereby alleviating a runny nose.
• Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, making it easier to breathe and reducing nasal discharge.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a phenolic compound with decongestant properties that help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate symptoms associated with a runny nose, such as nasal discharge and sinus pressure.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for runny nose.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of thymol, a compound known for its decongestant and antimicrobial properties.
• Stems: They are used because they also contain thymol, which helps to relieve congestion and reduce the production of mucus.
• Buds: They are used due to their high concentration of thymol, which makes them effective in treating respiratory issues like a runny nose.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for runny nose.

1. Extract the essential oil from 10g of dried thymus vulgaris leaves using a steam distillation process for 2 hours.
2. Combine 20g of beeswax with 50g of shea butter and 20g of coconut oil in a heat-resistant mixing bowl.
3. Heat the mixture from step 2 in a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Add 10g of the essential oil extracted in step 1 to the mixture from step 3 and mix until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into sterilized jars and allow it to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with runny nose because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe irritated nasal passages.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to reduce inflammation and congestion, providing relief from a runny nose. Additionally, licorice creams may help to dry up excess mucus and reduce nasal secretions, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving nasal congestion and promoting a healthy respiratory system.

It can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other natural remedies.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with runny nose.

• Glycyrrhizin: It helps with runny nose by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviating symptoms of colds and respiratory infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
• Licoricidin: It helps with runny nose by inhibiting the release of histamine, a chemical that causes blood vessels to swell and leads to nasal congestion and runny nose.
• Licopyrones: They help with runny nose by possessing anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help to regulate the immune response and alleviate symptoms of respiratory infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for runny nose.

• Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and congestion associated with a runny nose.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to produce glycyrrhizin, which is then used in creams to alleviate nasal congestion and runny nose.
• Flowers: Although less commonly used, the flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra may also contain some glycyrrhizin, although in smaller quantities, which can still contribute to their decongestant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for runny nose.

1. Mix 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root powder with 50 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
2. Combine 100 milliliters of coconut oil with 100 milliliters of distilled water in a separate saucepan.
3. Stir the mixture of beeswax and glycyrrhiza glabra root powder for 5 minutes to melt completely.
4. Combine the melted beeswax mixture with the coconut oil and distilled water mixture in a blender.
5. Whip the blended mixture for 10 minutes to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

5. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with runny nose because of its decongestant properties.

The active compound eucalyptol in the plant has natural anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties that help to break down and clear excess mucus from the nasal passages. By reducing inflammation and congestion, Eucalyptus globulus creams provide quick relief from runny nose, making it a popular natural remedy for colds and flu.

This helps to alleviate discomfort and promotes easier breathing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with runny nose.

• Cineole: This terpene helps to reduce nasal congestion and relieve a runny nose by thinning mucus and making it easier to expel, thereby providing quick relief.
• Borneol: As a terpene, borneol has anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, which aid in reducing swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages, helping to alleviate a runny nose.
• Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which help to open up airways and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and relieving symptoms of a runny nose.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for runny nose.

• Leaves: The most used part, as they contain high levels of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant that helps relieve nasal congestion and coughs.
• Barks: The barks are also commonly used, as they contain a smaller amount of eucalyptol but still have decongestant properties and can help soothe sore throats.
• Seeds: Eucalyptus seeds are less commonly used but are still utilized in creams due to their high eucalyptol content, which helps to thin mucus and relieve congestion.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for runny nose.

1. Weigh out 30g of eucalyptus globulus dried leaves and grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 2 minutes.
2. Combine 10g of the eucalyptus globulus powder with 20g of beeswax and 10g of coconut oil in a heat-proof mixing bowl.
3. Heat the mixture over a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes or until the beeswax is fully melted.
4. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in 20g of shea butter and 10g of vitamin e oil for 2 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into small glass jars and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

6. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with runny nose because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages. Calendula's soothing and moisturizing effects also calm irritated tissues, promoting healing and relieving discomfort associated with a runny nose. This natural remedy can provide quick relief and support the body's natural ability to recover from respiratory issues.

Regular use may also help alleviate recurring symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with runny nose.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, which can contribute to runny nose.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like caffeic acid and ferulic acid have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may help alleviate symptoms of runny nose by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the nasal mucosa.
• Flavonoids: Rutin, a flavonoid glycoside found in Calendula officinalis, has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that may help alleviate symptoms of runny nose, such as sneezing and congestion, by reducing inflammation and stabilizing mast cells.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for runny nose.

• Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and calm the nasal passages.
• Leaves: They have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that aid in reducing inflammation and fighting off infections in the nasal area.
• Seeds: They contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that help to reduce swelling and combat the root causes of a runny nose.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for runny nose.

1. Harvest 20-30 flowers from the calendula officinalis plant and dry them in a warm oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
2. Infuse 2 cups of dried flowers in 4 cups of jojoba oil in a glass jar for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks of infusion time.
4. Combine 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture constantly until the beeswax and shea butter melt and the mixture reaches 120°f in 10 minutes.

7. Verbena officinalis

Verbena officinalis, also known as lemon verbena, creams helps with runny nose because of its natural decongestant properties.

The essential oils present in Verbena officinalis, such as limonene and linalool, have anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects that help to relieve nasal congestion and reduce excessive mucus production. These oils also have a soothing effect on the nasal passages, promoting easier breathing and providing temporary relief from runny nose and sinus pressure.

This natural remedy can be a gentle and effective solution for soothing a runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbena officinalis creams that help with runny nose.

• Verbascoside: Verbascoside is a phenylethanoid glycoside that has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate congestion in the nasal passages, thereby relieving runny nose.
• Verbenaoside: Verbenaoside is another phenylethanoid glycoside found in Verbena officinalis, which has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and calm the nasal mucosa, reducing the production of mucus and alleviating runny nose.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal passages, thereby relieving runny nose and other symptoms associated with respiratory issues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make creams for runny nose.

• Leaves: They contain compounds with decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce nasal congestion.
• Flowers: They have been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory issues, including runny nose, due to their expectorant and antiseptic properties.
• Roots: They are rich in bioactive compounds that may help alleviate nasal congestion and other respiratory symptoms associated with runny nose.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for runny nose.

1. Harvest 10 grams of dried verbena officinalis flowers from a trusted source and dry them completely.
2. Steep the dried flowers in 100 milliliters of boiling water for 5 minutes to create a herbal infusion.
3. Strain the infusion and add 100 milliliters of distilled water and 20 grams of beeswax to it.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes to melt the beeswax completely.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and allow it to cool and thicken for 30 minutes before use.

8. Sideritis scardica

Sideritis scardica, also known as ironwort, creams helps with runny nose because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce nasal congestion.

The herb's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to have a decongestant effect on the nasal passages, helping to alleviate excessive mucus production and relieve symptoms of a runny nose.

Additionally, Sideritis scardica creams may help to soothe and calm irritated nasal tissues, promoting a sense of relief and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sideritis scardica creams that help with runny nose.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to alleviate nasal congestion and reduce the production of excess mucus associated with a runny nose.
• Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene, carnosic acid has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms of a runny nose.
• Bornied: This is a sesquiterpene which helps to reduce the inflammation and the nasal congestion associated with a runny nose.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make creams for runny nose.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help alleviate congestion and reduce nasal discharge.
• Flowers: The flowers are utilized for their expectorant and decongestant properties, which can help relieve nasal congestion and promote a runny nose to clear out mucus.
• Roots: The roots are used because of their ability to act as a natural expectorant and decongestant, helping to clear out mucus and reduce nasal discharge.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironwort for runny nose.

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of sideritis scardica flowers and leaves at dawn when they are dry and free from moisture.
2. Combine the harvested sideritis scardica with 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler to melt the wax.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil to the mixture and heat for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil and 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel to enhance the cream's properties.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before use.

9. Plantago major

Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with runny nose because of its anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties.

The cream's active ingredients, such as aucubin and allantoin, reduce swelling and congestion, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, plantain creams have natural expectorant properties, helping to thin and clear mucus from the nasal passages. This makes it an effective remedy for relieving nasal congestion and runny nose, promoting a clearer and healthier respiratory system.

Its natural composition also makes it an attractive alternative to traditional medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with runny nose.

• Apolypodol: It is a phenolic compound that may help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Aucubin: This iridoid glycoside may have anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties that help break down and clear mucus from the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing runny nose.
• Plantaginin: This phenolic compound may have decongestant properties that help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate runny nose by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for runny nose.

• Leaves: They contain mucilage, a thick, protective substance that helps soothe and calm irritated nasal passages.
• Seeds: The seeds are a source of mucilage, which can be extracted to create a protective barrier and reduce inflammation in the nose.
• Roots: The roots of Plantago major contain mucilage and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for runny nose.

1. Harvest 20-30 plantago major leaves and flowers from a clean area on a sunny day.
2. Dry the harvested plantago major leaves and flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 2 weeks.
3. Steep 10 grams of dried plantago major in 200 milliliters of olive oil in a double boiler for 2 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Mix 10 grams of the infused oil with 20 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of distilled water in a heat-proof bowl.

10. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with runny nose because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The root of the marshmallow plant is rich in mucilages, a type of complex carbohydrate that forms a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and congestion.

This natural barrier helps to calm and protect the nasal passages, promoting a decrease in mucus production and a reduction in runny nose symptoms, providing relief and comfort to individuals suffering from nasal congestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with runny nose.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and congestion that can contribute to runny nose.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce swelling and infection in the nasal passages, alleviating symptoms of runny nose.
• Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce nasal congestion and combat underlying infections that may be contributing to runny nose.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for runny nose.

• Roots: Rich in mucilages, a type of soluble fiber, which helps to soothe and moisturize the nasal passages.
• Leaves: Contain mucilages that help to calm and protect the nasal mucosa, reducing inflammation and congestion.
• Stems: Also contain mucilages, which can be extracted and used in creams to provide similar benefits to the roots and leaves.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for runny nose.

1. Weigh out 500 grams of althaea officinalis root powder and set aside for future use.
2. Combine 500 milliliters of distilled water and 50 grams of beeswax in a heat-proof container.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax has fully dissolved in 30 minutes.
4. Add 100 grams of sweet almond oil and 50 grams of candelilla wax to the mixture and stir until melted in 20 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and allow to cool completely in 60 minutes.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for runny nose?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with runny nose is a blend of Peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Calendula creams.

Peppermint helps to cool and clear the nasal passages, while Eucalyptus oil's decongestant properties reduce congestion and promote drainage. Calendula cream soothes and calms the nasal tissues, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Together, these creams provide a powerful and natural solution to alleviate runny nose symptoms, promoting a healthy and balanced respiratory system.

What ailments similar to runny nose are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to runny nose that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile help soothe and calm inflamed skin, reducing redness and itching. They also possess antibacterial and antifungal properties that combat infections and promote healing.

These natural remedies offer a gentle and non-irritating alternative to harsh chemical-based treatments.