10 Best Herbal Teas For Runny Nose

Herbal teas for runny nose are a natural remedy that helps alleviate congestion and soothe the nasal passages.

These teas are made from herbs such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger, which have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking these teas can help reduce mucus production, ease breathing, and provide relief from sinus pressure.

Examples include peppermint tea, eucalyptus tea, and ginger tea, which can improve quality of life by reducing the frequency and severity of runny nose episodes.

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

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with runny nose because its active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.

Additionally, Echinacea's immunomodulatory effects help stimulate the body's natural defense mechanisms, which can aid in fighting off underlying infections that may be causing the runny nose.

This natural remedy can provide relief and promote a healthier respiratory system.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Alkaloids: Cichoric acid has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections that may be contributing to a runny nose. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce nasal congestion.
• Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have been found to possess immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system's response to allergens and infections, thereby reducing the severity of runny nose symptoms.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They are considered the most effective part for medicinal purposes due to their high concentration of alkaloids and glycosides that help to reduce inflammation and congestion.
• Leaves: They contain compounds that help to soothe and calm the respiratory system, making them a popular choice for teas to alleviate a runny nose.
• Stems: They also contain medicinal compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nose and sinuses, although they may be less potent than roots.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh roots or 10-15 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall season.
2. Clean the echinacea roots under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
3. Chop the echinacea roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Combine 1 teaspoon of chopped echinacea roots with 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the echinacea solids completely.

2. Plantago major

Plantago major, also known as plantain, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural expectorant properties.

The plantain plant contains mucilages, which are soothing compounds that help thin and clear mucus from the nasal passages. When consumed as a tea, these mucilages work to reduce inflammation and congestion, promoting a healthy flow of mucus and relieving nasal congestion. This makes plantain tea a popular natural remedy for colds and allergies.

Its decongestant properties also make it an effective aid in managing sinus pressure.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of runny nose by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent.
• Aucubin: A phenylethanoid glycoside that has been shown to exhibit antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate runny nose symptoms.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are used in teas due to their expectorant properties, helping to relieve congestion and runny nose.
• Seeds: Plantago major seeds are used in teas for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms of a runny nose.
• Stems: The stems of Plantago major are used in teas to provide anti-catarrhal properties, which can help to reduce mucus and alleviate congestion.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried plantago major leaves in late spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency.
2. Chop 2-3 teaspoons of plantago major leaves into fine pieces using sharp scissors or a knife.
3. Steep the chopped leaves in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before drinking it slowly and mindfully.

3. Galium aparine

Galium aparine, also known as cleavers, teas helps with runny nose because it has natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's active compounds, including flavonoids and saponins, work to reduce nasal congestion and swelling, alleviating the symptoms of a runny nose. Additionally, cleavers' astringent properties help to dry up excess mucus, promoting a clearer nasal passage and relieving the discomfort associated with runny nose.

As a result, Galium aparine tea may offer a natural relief from nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Galium aparine teas that help with runny nose.

• Saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and swelling, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds possess antihistamine-like properties, which can counteract the release of histamine, a chemical responsible for itching, sneezing, and runny nose associated with allergies.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and runny nose symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of cleavers used to make teas for runny nose.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used to make teas for runny nose due to their antihistamine and decongestant properties.
• Stems: Stems are used in teas for runny nose as they possess astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce nasal discharge.
• Flowers: Flowers are also used in teas for runny nose due to their decongestant and antiseptic properties, which help alleviate congestion and soothe the nasal passages.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh galium aparine leaves and stems for tea in late spring or early summer when they are most potent.
2. Dry the harvested galium aparine in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours.
3. Steep 2 teaspoons of dried galium aparine in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids.
5. Serve the herbal tea hot or iced within 30 minutes of preparation.

4. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with runny nose because of its anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.

The roots and leaves of the dandelion plant contain compounds that have natural antihistamine effects, helping to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate sinus pressure. Additionally, the tea's diuretic properties help to flush out excess mucus and fluids, providing relief from a runny nose and promoting overall respiratory health.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe cold and flu symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Apigenin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, apigenin has been shown to exhibit antihistaminic and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help relieve allergic reactions and reduce nasal discharge.
• Taraxasterol acetate: Similar to taraxasterol, this triterpenoid saponin also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Leaves are the primary part used for teas to combat runny nose due to their high concentration of flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
• Flowers: Flowers are used to make teas due to their high content of flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which help reduce inflammation and relieve nasal congestion.
• Roots: Roots are used to make teas as they contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in the early morning or late afternoon.
2. Clean the harvested leaves and flowers by gently swishing them in cold water for 2 minutes.
3. Chop the cleaned taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped taraxacum officinale in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.

5. Verbena officinalis

Verbena officinalis, also known as lemon verbena, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea contains compounds like verbascoside, which helps to reduce swelling and ease congestion in the nasal passages. Additionally, Verbena officinalis has a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, allowing them to heal and recover from irritation and infection.

As a result, consumption of this tea can provide relief from runny nose and other respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Verbascoside: This iridoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help to soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing excessive mucus production.
• Verbenaoside: This iridoid glycoside has been shown to possess antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to alleviate allergic rhinitis symptoms, including runny nose.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are rich in volatile oils, which provide the medicinal properties needed to soothe a runny nose.
• Flowers: The flowers contain a high concentration of essential oils, which help to decongest and calm the nasal passages.
• Roots: The roots of the plant are known to contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce nasal congestion.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh verbena officinalis leaves and flowers in the early morning for optimal flavor and aroma.
2. Rinse the harvested verbena officinalis leaves and flowers with clean water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine one teaspoon of dried verbena officinalis leaves or one tablespoon of fresh leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Steep the verbena officinalis mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the verbena officinalis leaves and flowers.

6. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural decongestant properties.

The menthol in peppermint oil helps to thin mucus and clear nasal passages, providing instant relief from congestion. The tea's cooling sensation also helps to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing.

Additionally, peppermint's expectorant properties help to loosen and expel mucus, making it a popular natural remedy for soothing a runny nose.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with runny nose.

• Menthol: Menthol acts as a decongestant by thinning mucus and promoting drainage, which helps relieve a runny nose.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Eucalyptol: Eucalyptol, a terpene, has natural expectorant properties, which help loosen and clear mucus from the nasal passages, providing relief from a runny nose.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for runny nose.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Mentha x piperita to make teas due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which help to decongest the nasal passages.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita also contain essential oils that can help to relieve congestion and open up airways, making them a popular choice for teas.
• Flowers: While not as commonly used as leaves or stems, the flowers of Mentha x piperita can still be used to make teas that help to soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing congestion.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers from a garden or store.
2. Clean 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers with cold water for 10 minutes.
3. Chop the clean mentha x piperita leaves and flowers into small pieces with a knife.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped mentha x piperita in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the steeped mentha x piperita tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.

7. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural decongestant properties.

Thyme contains compounds such as thymol and carvacrol, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that can help to reduce congestion and soothe the nasal passages. The tea's expectorant properties also aid in loosening and clearing mucus, providing relief from a runny nose and promoting a more comfortable breathing experience.

Regular consumption of thyme tea may help alleviate symptoms associated with colds and flu.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Thymol acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the nasal passages, thereby reducing runny nose.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the runny nose, such as sinus infections or allergies.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is an antioxidant that can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, helping to alleviate congestion and runny nose associated with allergic reactions.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Thymus vulgaris are the most used part in teas for runny nose due to their high content of thymol, which has decongestant properties.
• Flowers: Thymus vulgaris flowers are also commonly used in teas to help alleviate runny nose symptoms due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Buds: Thymus vulgaris buds are sometimes used in teas to help relieve runny nose, as they contain compounds that can help reduce inflammation and ease congestion.

Recipe

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

1. Choose high-quality thymus vulgaris leaves with a strong aroma and minimal moisture content.
2. Measure 1-2 teaspoons of dried thymus vulgaris leaves for every 8 ounces of water used.
3. Heat 8 ounces of water to a rolling boil in a teapot for 2-3 minutes.
4. Steep the dried thymus vulgaris leaves in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to release oils.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve immediately.

8. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural decongestant properties.

The herb contains compounds like thujone and camphor, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages. As the tea is consumed, these compounds work to clear excess mucus and reduce the production of histamine, a chemical that can exacerbate nasal congestion.

As a result, Salvia officinalis tea can provide quick relief from runny nose and sinus pressure, promoting a clear and comfortable breathing experience.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ursolic acid: A phenolic acid found in Salvia officinalis that helps reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic diterpene acid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate runny nose by preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
• Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and infection that may contribute to runny nose, and also exhibit antioxidant properties to protect against oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for runny nose.

• Leaves: Used to make teas for runny nose, as they contain bioactive compounds such as thujone and camphor, which possess anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
• Roots: Used to make teas for runny nose, as they contain compounds like salvin and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to combat respiratory issues.
• Buds: Used to make teas for runny nose, as they contain essential oils that help to clear congestion and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh salvia officinalis leaves from mature plants in the morning for optimal flavor and aroma.
2. Rinse the harvested leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the plant surface.
3. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of fresh or dried salvia officinalis leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the plant material from the liquid.
5. Serve the herbal tea immediately and enjoy as a warm or chilled beverage within 30 minutes of preparation.

9. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural decongestant properties.

The flavonoids and amino acids present in the tea help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages. The catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have been shown to have a positive effect on the immune system, helping to combat infections that cause runny noses.

Additionally, the theanine content in tea promotes relaxation and reduces stress, which can exacerbate nasal congestion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis teas that help with runny nose.

• Catechins: These phenolic compounds help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Quercetin: As a flavonoid and a powerful antioxidant, quercetin helps to reduce inflammation and stabilize the mucus membranes, thereby preventing excessive mucus production and runny nose.
• Theaflavins: These polyphenolic compounds help to reduce inflammation and improve the nasal mucosa's natural barrier function, preventing the entry of allergens and irritants that can cause runny nose.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make teas for runny nose.

• Leaves: Used to make teas for runny nose due to their natural decongestant properties.
• Buds: Used to make teas for runny nose due to their high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Stems: Used to make teas for runny nose due to their ability to help reduce nasal congestion.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest the camellia sinensis leaves in the early morning when they are still moist with dew and have the best flavor profile.
2. Rinse the leaves in cold running water to remove dirt and impurities and bring out their natural flavors.
3. Heat the water to a temperature of 160-170°f for green tea and 200-212°f for black tea.
4. Steep the tea leaves in the hot water for 1-3 minutes depending on the desired strength and flavor.
5. Strain the tea and discard the leaves to enjoy your freshly brewed camellia sinensis tea.

10. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with runny nose because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The root of the licorice plant contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which soothe and calm the nasal passages. This helps to reduce inflammation and congestion, making it easier to breathe and alleviating runny nose symptoms. Additionally, licorice tea's demulcent properties help to protect the mucous membranes, further reducing irritation and discomfort associated with a runny nose.

This natural remedy provides relief without harsh chemicals.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with runny nose by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and leukotrienes, which contribute to nasal congestion and discharge.
• Licoricidin: This flavanone glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help to reduce nasal congestion and runny nose by blocking the action of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
• Licorisoflavan a: This isoflavan has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce nasal inflammation and congestion, thereby alleviating symptoms of runny nose.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: Roots are commonly used to make teas due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help alleviate congestion.
• Leaves: Leaves are sometimes used to make teas, as they contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin, which can still provide relief from runny nose and other respiratory issues.
• Buds: Buds are occasionally used to make teas, as they are thought to have a similar composition to roots but with a milder effect, making them a suitable option for those who prefer a gentler remedy.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and place them in a clean tea infuser.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water in a kettle to 212 degrees fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
3. Steep the glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to release flavors.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the roots.
5. Allow the tea to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving and consuming immediately.

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

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

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties, which help to combat the underlying infection causing the runny nose. Peppermint tea helps to soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and congestion.

Eucalyptus tea, with its decongestant properties, further aids in clearing the nasal passages and relieving sinus pressure, making this trio an effective natural remedy for runny nose.