10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Runny Nose

Herbal decoctions for runny nose are a natural remedy that combines herbs, spices, and botanicals to create a soothing drink that helps alleviate congestion and sinus pressure.

These decoctions work by warming and opening up airways, reducing inflammation, and loosening mucus, providing quick relief from a runny nose. For example, a ginger and eucalyptus decoction can help ease sinus pressure, while a peppermint and lemon balm mixture can calm the throat and nasal passages.

By enjoying these herbal concoctions, individuals can breathe easier and sleep better, ultimately improving their daily lives by reducing fatigue and increasing overall comfort.

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

1. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower decoctions helps with runny nose because of its natural antihistamine properties.

The decoction's active compounds, such as artemisinin and isothiocyanates, help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, providing quick relief from excessive mucus production.

Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory effects soothe and calm irritated tissues, further reducing nasal discharge and promoting a healthier sinus environment, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating runny nose symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside and isochlorogenic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose associated with infections.
• Alkylamides: These compounds, including cis-1-alkenylcyclohexanecarboxylic acid and cis-3-alkenylcyclohexanecarboxylic acid, have immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and alleviate symptoms of runny nose.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal passages, thereby relieving runny nose and congestion.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Echinacea roots are used due to their high concentration of glycosides and alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate respiratory issues.
• Leaves: Echinacea leaves are used for their ability to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing the severity of respiratory infections that cause runny noses.
• Flowers: Echinacea flowers are used for their high content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate respiratory issues and reduce mucus production.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest echinacea purpurea roots and rhizomes in the fall after the first frost for medicinal purposes.
2. Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for eight hours.
3. Grind the dried roots and rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine one to two teaspoons of the powder with eight ounces of boiling water to make a decoction.
5. Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes and strain before drinking the liquid decoction.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with runny nose because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly glycyrrhizin and flavonoids.

These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing congestion and runniness. Additionally, licorice decoctions can help to reduce mucus production, making it an effective natural remedy for relieving symptoms of a runny nose, such as dripping and sneezing.

By promoting a healthy balance in the nasal mucosa, licorice decoctions can provide long-lasting relief from runny nose discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Helps with runny nose by inhibiting the release of histamine, a chemical mediator responsible for allergic reactions and nasal congestion.
• Flavonoids: Contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic effects, which help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose caused by allergies and colds.
• Liquiritigenin: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, and also has antihistaminic properties to help alleviate runny nose symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for the herb's medicinal properties.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used to make decoctions for a runny nose, possibly due to their ability to provide additional anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
• (optional) leaves: Some sources suggest the leaves of the plant might be used in decoctions, but their effectiveness is less documented compared to roots and barks.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Weigh 4-6 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and place them in a clean glass container.
2. Add 250 milliliters of boiling water to the container and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
4. Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Take 25-50 milliliters of the decoction 2-3 times a day as needed for medicinal purposes.

3. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with runny nose because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The decoction's bioactive compounds, such as taraxasterol and sesquiterpene lactones, work to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, thereby alleviating congestion and rhinorrhea (runny nose). Additionally, dandelion's expectorant properties help loosen and clear mucus from the airways, promoting a healthy respiratory system.

By addressing these underlying issues, dandelion decoctions provide natural relief for runny noses and sinus pressure.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with runny nose.

• Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale decoctions help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, which may contribute to a decrease in runny nose symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, in Taraxacum officinale decoctions exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate congestion and runny nose.
• Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin in Taraxacum officinale decoctions, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate immune responses and reduce nasal discharge.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for runny nose.

• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce nasal congestion and ease runny nose symptoms.
• Roots: They contain inulin and other bioactive compounds that can help alleviate respiratory issues, including runny nose, by reducing mucus production.
• Flowers: They possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help combat infections causing runny nose, such as colds and allergies.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at dawn or early morning when dew is still present.
2. Rinse the harvested plant material with cold running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
3. Combine 20 grams of taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with 1 liter of boiling water to create a decoction.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly and the flavors have been released.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove any solids completely.

4. Euphorbia esula

Leafy spurge decoctions helps with runny nose because it contains bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The decoction's active ingredients, such as sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, help to reduce nasal congestion by suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Additionally, leafy spurge decoctions may also have a decongestant effect on the nasal passages, reducing excess mucus production and providing relief from runny nose symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphorbia esula decoctions that help with runny nose.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Euphorbia esula decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as euphorbol, found in Euphorbia esula decoctions, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities, contributing to the relief of runny nose by reducing nasal secretions and inflammation.
• Saponins: Saponins present in Euphorbia esula decoctions have expectorant properties, helping to thin and clear mucus from the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of leafy spurge used to make decoctions for runny nose.

• Roots: Euphorbia esula roots are used to make decoctions for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Stems: Euphorbia esula stems are used to make decoctions for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Leaves: Euphorbia esula leaves are used to make decoctions for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate runny nose symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather euphorbia esula roots and stems to make a decoction for medicinal purposes.
2. Clean and dry the gathered plant material for at least 2 days to prevent mold.
3. Chop the dried euphorbia esula material into small pieces using a sharp knife or tool.
4. Combine 20 grams of the chopped plant material with 1 liter of distilled water in a saucepan.
5. Boil the mixture for 20-30 minutes then let it steep for another 30 minutes to create a decoction.

5. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow decoctions helps with runny nose because they contain a unique combination of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other bioactive compounds that work synergistically to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate swollen nasal membranes and ease excess mucus production, allowing the body to naturally clear out irritants and allergens more efficiently.

As a result, yarrow decoctions can provide fast and effective relief for runny noses caused by colds, allergies, or environmental factors.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium decoctions that help with runny nose.

• Achillin: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, which may help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose by inhibiting the release of histamine.
• Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, apigenin may help alleviate runny nose by blocking the action of histamine and reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.
• Cichoriin: A sesquiterpene lactone, cichoriin has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make decoctions for runny nose.

• Leaves: Rich in tannins and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and congestion.
• Flowers: Contain bioactive compounds like sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
• Roots: Known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat underlying infections and reduce nasal discharge.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried achillea millefolium flowers for this herbal decoction.
2. Combine the dried flowers in a saucepan with 4 cups of water for decoction.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a boil then reduce heat to low.
4. Simmer the decoction for 5-10 minutes then remove it from heat and let it steep for another 10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and discard the solids.

6. Sambucus nigra

Elder decoctions helps with runny nose because they contain antihistamine and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate sinus pressure.

The warm, soothing liquid also helps to loosen and clear out mucus and debris from the nasal passages, providing relief from constant sniffing and sneezing.

Additionally, elder's natural antibacterial properties can help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with runny nose.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Sambucus nigra have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections causing runny nose, and their anti-inflammatory effects also contribute to symptom relief.
• Terpenes: Terpenes in Sambucus nigra have decongestant properties that help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose by thinning mucus and improving drainage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for runny nose.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part due to their high content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and relieve congestion.
• Stems: The stems contain a significant amount of sambunigrin, a compound that has been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues, including a runny nose.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used due to their rich content of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds that help to soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and congestion.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50-100g of fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves on a dry day in late summer.
2. Chop the harvested flowers and leaves into small pieces to enhance their release of bioactive compounds.
3. Combine the chopped flowers and leaves with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to extract the bioactive compounds from the sambucus nigra.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.

7. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold decoctions helps with runny nose because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages.

The decoction's expectorant properties also help to loosen and clear out mucus, providing relief from congestion and sinus pressure.

Additionally, pot marigold contains antioxidants that help to combat oxidative stress and inflammation, further alleviating symptoms associated with a runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Calendulin: Calendulin is a triterpene saponin glycoside that helps reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and mucus production in the nasal passages, thus reducing runny nose.
• N-butanol soluble fraction: The N-butanol soluble fraction of Calendula officinalis contains a mixture of phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to alleviate runny nose and other upper respiratory tract infections.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds and their ability to soothe and calm irritated tissues.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and congestion, making them a popular choice for treating runny nose.
• Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of runny nose.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 flower heads of calendula officinalis at peak bloom for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place or using a food dehydrator for 1-2 hours.
3. Steep 1 tablespoon of dried flower heads in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.
5. Store the prepared decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze for later use.

8. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena decoctions helps with runny nose because its antiviral properties help to combat the underlying causes of nasal congestion.

The decoction's soothing and anti-inflammatory compounds calm irritated mucous membranes, reducing excess mucus production and thinning out stubborn congestion. Additionally, lemon verbena's natural decongestant properties help to ease sinus pressure and clear airways, providing swift relief from runny nose and sinus congestion symptoms.

This natural remedy promotes a sense of clarity and comfort, making it an effective solution for soothing a stuffy or runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Verbascoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside, Verbascoside helps alleviate runny nose due to its antihistamine properties, reducing the body's allergic response and subsequent nasal congestion.
• Nepetalactone: A sesquiterpene lactone, Nepetalactone exhibits antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate nasal congestion and runny nose by reducing the body's allergic response.
• Aesculetin: A coumarin derivative and phenolic compound, Aesculetin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and essential oils, which possess anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
• Roots: Employed for their ability to reduce mucus production and alleviate congestion, attributed to their rich content of iridoids and other bioactive compounds.
• Buds: Utilized for their expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, thus providing relief from runny nose.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh verbena officinalis flowers and leaves at the peak of their potency.
2. Dry the harvested verbena officinalis flowers and leaves in a warm place for 2 weeks.
3. Grind 2 teaspoons of dried verbena officinalis flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of powdered verbena officinalis in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids after allowing it to cool to room temperature.

9. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum decoctions helps with runny nose because it contains natural expectorants that effectively loosen and clear out excess mucus from the nasal passages.

The decongestant properties of eucalyptus oil, a key component of Tasmanian blue gum, help to reduce swelling in the nasal tissues, allowing for easier breathing and a significant reduction in nasal discharge.

Additionally, the antiviral and antibacterial properties of the decoction help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the runny nose, providing relief from congestion and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: This terpene helps to break down and clear mucus from the nasal passages, providing relief from runny nose and congestion.
• Α-pinene: This terpene has a bronchodilatory effect, which helps to relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing the production of mucus.
• Menthol: This terpene has a cooling effect that helps to numb the nasal passages, reducing the sensation of congestion and runny nose, and also has a mild expectorant effect that helps to thin and clear mucus.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high content of eucalyptol, a compound known for its decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Barks: Barks are often used in decoctions for their ability to reduce inflammation and ease respiratory issues, such as a runny nose.
• Stems: Stems are also used due to their eucalyptol content, which can help alleviate congestion and promote a healthy respiratory system.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2 cups of fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves and 4 cups of water for the decoction.
2. Dry the gathered eucalyptus globulus leaves in a warm place for at least 2 days.
3. Combine 2 tablespoons of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes then reduce heat for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a cup and discard the solids.

10. Solidago virgaurea

Goldenrod decoctions helps with runny nose because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce congestion and ease sinus pressure.

The flavonoids and phenolic acids present in goldenrod have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are known to cause blood vessels to swell, leading to increased mucus secretion.

By reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, goldenrod decoctions can help to alleviate runny nose symptoms and promote a sense of relief for those suffering from allergies or respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea decoctions that help with runny nose.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Solidago virgaurea decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate symptoms of runny nose.
• Caffeic acid derivatives: Caffeic acid derivatives, such as sinapic acid, have been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections that may contribute to runny nose.
• Tannins: Tannins in Solidago virgaurea decoctions have astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and dry up excess mucus in the nasal passages, providing relief from runny nose.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make decoctions for runny nose.

• Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate respiratory issues.
• Roots: The roots of Solidago virgaurea have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues, including runny nose due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate congestion and runny nose.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 3-6 ounces of dried solidago virgaurea roots or leaves to create the herbal decoction.
2. Boil 4 cups of water in a saucepan for 5-10 minutes at a medium-high heat level.
3. Add the dried solidago virgaurea roots or leaves to the boiling water and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it for medicinal purposes.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with runny nose is a blend of Echinacea, Ginger, and Licorice root.

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties, while Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce congestion. Licorice root soothes the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

This combination can be made by steeping equal parts of dried Echinacea, Ginger, and Licorice root in hot water, then straining and drinking as a tea 2-3 times a day to alleviate runny nose symptoms.

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

Ailments similar to runny nose that are treated with herbal decoctions are sinusitis, bronchitis, and congestion.

Herbal decoctions containing ingredients like eucalyptus, ginger, and turmeric help relieve respiratory issues by reducing inflammation, opening airways, and loosening mucus.

Other ailments that benefit from herbal decoctions include coughs, colds, and flu, as well as allergies and asthma.