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Home | Remedies | Respiratory System | Runny Nose | Teas

Updated: Nov 30, 2024

11 Herbal Teas For Runny Nose

herbal teas for runny nose

If you're struggling with a runny nose, herbal teas can be a great way to find some relief.

These teas work by loosening mucus and reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and feel better. One herb that's particularly good at this is Eucalyptus globulus, which contains compounds that help break down and expel mucus. Drinking Eucalyptus tea can help clear out your sinuses and make you feel more comfortable. Another herb that's often used to combat a runny nose is Echinacea purpurea. Echinacea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, making it easier to breathe. It also has antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off infections that can cause a runny nose in the first place.

Drinking Echinacea tea can help boost your immune system and keep you from getting sick in the first place. Sambucus nigra, also known as elderberry, is another herb that's often used to soothe a runny nose. Elderberry has antiviral properties that can help fight off viruses that can cause colds and flu, which often come with a runny nose. Drinking elderberry tea can help reduce the severity and duration of a cold or flu, making it a great choice if you're feeling under the weather. These herbal teas are not only a great way to relieve a runny nose, but they're also a healthy and natural way to do it. By choosing herbal teas over medication, you can avoid harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients that can have negative side effects. Plus, these teas can be a great way to relax and unwind, which can be especially helpful if you're feeling stressed or anxious.

So, next time you're dealing with a runny nose, consider reaching for one of these herbal teas to find some relief.

This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for runny nose and wh.

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1. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus herbal teas for runny nose

Eucalyptus globulus teas contains compounds like eucalyptol, a key active constituent that helps with congestion.

Eucalyptol has decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing swelling and mucus production in the nasal passages. The tea's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out excess mucus, allowing for easier breathing. Eucalyptol's ability to thin mucus also makes it easier to expel, providing quick relief from a runny nose.

Drinking Eucalyptus globulus tea can provide a natural way to alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Eucalyptus globulus leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
  2. Measure 1 tablespoon of honey and set aside for sweetening (optional).
  3. Pour boiling water over the Eucalyptus leaves and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Strain the mixture into a cup and discard the leaves.
  5. Add honey to taste and drink the tea hot to help relieve a runny nose.

2. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea herbal teas for runny nose

Echinacea purpurea teas contains bioactive constituents like alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and polysaccharides.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and fight off free radicals in the body. The alkylamides in Echinacea purpurea teas can modulate the immune system's response to infection, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals that can exacerbate a runny nose. The caffeic acid derivatives have a decongestant effect, helping to clear out mucus and reduce congestion.

By reducing inflammation and congestion, Echinacea purpurea teas may provide relief from a runny nose.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves.
  2. Use a tablespoon measure and add 2 tablespoons of the flowers and leaves to a tea infuser.
  3. Heat 1 cup of water in a pot and bring it to a boil.
  4. Pour the boiling water over the tea infuser and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Strain the tea and drink it hot or let it cool for later use.

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3. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra herbal teas for runny nose

Sambucus nigra teas contains flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce nasal congestion.

The tea also contains terpenes like limonene and beta-pinene, which have decongestant properties that help relieve a runny nose. The flavonoids and terpenes in Sambucus nigra teas work together to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses, making it easier to breathe. The antioxidant properties of the tea's flavonoids also help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by allergies and colds.

By reducing inflammation and promoting drainage, Sambucus nigra teas can help alleviate a runny nose and other symptoms associated with respiratory issues.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Sambucus nigra flowers or 1 teaspoon of dried flowers.
  2. Combine the flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a saucepan.
  3. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes, then strain it into a cup.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey (optional) to taste and mix well.
  5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve a runny nose.

4. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale herbal teas for runny nose

Zingiber officinale teas contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.

These active constituents have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and ease congestion in the nasal passages. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also help combat infections that can cause a runny nose. Additionally, the warming effect of ginger can help open up airways and improve blood circulation, promoting drainage and relief from nasal congestion.

By reducing inflammation and promoting drainage, Zingiber officinale teas can help alleviate symptoms of a runny nose.

  1. Gather 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of dried Zingiber officinale root.
  2. Boil the water in a pot and let it cool for 1 minute.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Zingiber officinale root to the cooled water.
  4. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the mixture into a cup.
  5. Drink the tea warm, 2-3 times a day to help with a runny nose.

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5. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris herbal teas for runny nose

Thymus vulgaris teas contains thymol, a biologically active constituent that has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help reduce congestion and inflammation in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Thymol also has a decongestant effect, which helps to clear mucus from the airways and alleviate a runny nose. Additionally, thymus vulgaris teas contains carvacrol, another biologically active constituent that has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat underlying infections that may be causing a runny nose.

By consuming thymus vulgaris teas, the antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant properties of thymol and carvacrol can work together to help alleviate a runny nose.

  1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried Thymus vulgaris leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
  2. Pour the boiling water over the Thymus vulgaris leaves in a cup.
  3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea into another cup and discard the leaves.
  5. Drink the tea warm or at room temperature to help relieve a runny nose.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba herbal teas for runny nose

Ginkgo biloba teas contains flavonoids, terpenoids, and bilobalide, which are active constituents that contribute to its benefits.

The flavonoids in ginkgo biloba help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the nasal passages, relieving congestion and a runny nose. Bilobalide, on the other hand, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the nasal lining and reduce swelling. The terpenoids in ginkgo biloba also have antioxidant properties that can help protect the nasal tissues from damage caused by free radicals.

By reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, ginkgo biloba teas can help alleviate a runny nose and promote a sense of comfort.

  1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
  2. Steep the Ginkgo biloba leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Strain the mixture into a cup using a tea strainer or a piece of cheesecloth.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea, if desired, to help soothe a runny nose.
  5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to 3 times a day as needed.

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7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia herbal teas for runny nose

Lavandula angustifolia teas contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which are responsible for its soothing properties.

These constituents help to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. The antispasmodic properties of linalool also relax the muscles in the nose and throat, allowing for better drainage of mucus and reducing congestion. By easing the flow of mucus and reducing inflammation, Lavandula angustifolia teas helps to alleviate the symptoms of a runny nose.

This tea also has a calming effect, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that may contribute to a runny nose.

  1. Gather 1 cup of dried Lavandula angustifolia flowers.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of dried flowers to a tea infuser or a piece of cheesecloth.
  3. Heat 1 cup of boiling water in a teapot.
  4. Steep the dried flowers in the hot water for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Strain the tea and drink 1 cup, 2-3 times a day to help relieve a runny nose.

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8. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis herbal teas for runny nose

Rosmarinus officinalis teas contains rosmarinic acid, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

This acid has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help alleviate congestion and swelling. The bioactive constituents in rosemary tea, including carnosic acid and ursolic acid, also have decongestant and antimicrobial properties that help combat infections and reduce mucus production. By reducing inflammation and infection, Rosmarinus officinalis teas can help dry up a runny nose and alleviate sinus pressure.

The antioxidants in rosemary tea also help protect the body from oxidative stress, which can contribute to respiratory issues.

  1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 1 teaspoon of dried Rosmarinus officinalis leaves.
  2. Measure 1 teaspoon of honey and have it ready for use.
  3. Steep the Rosmarinus officinalis leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Strain the liquid into a cup and add the measured honey to taste.
  5. Drink the tea while it's warm to help soothe a runny nose.

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9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra herbal teas for runny nose

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids.

These active constituents have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe a runny nose by reducing swelling and fighting off infections. Glycyrrhizin, in particular, has been shown to inhibit the production of histamine, a chemical that can exacerbate nasal congestion and runny nose. The flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the nasal passages from oxidative stress and damage.

By reducing inflammation and fighting off infections, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas can help alleviate symptoms of a runny nose.

  1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra root and 1 cup of water.
  2. Boil the water in a pot and add the dried root. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup.
  4. Add honey to taste, if desired. The recommended amount is 1-2 teaspoons.
  5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve a runny nose.

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10. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis herbal teas for runny nose

Melissa officinalis teas contains rosmarinic acid, a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

This antioxidant also has a decongestant effect, which can help relieve a runny nose by reducing the amount of mucus produced. The tea also contains luteolin, a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe an irritated throat. The combination of these compounds in Melissa officinalis tea can help ease congestion and promote a sense of calm, making it a popular remedy for a runny nose.

Regular consumption of Melissa officinalis tea may help alleviate symptoms of respiratory issues.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Melissa officinalis leaves and flowers, or 1 teaspoon of dried Melissa officinalis.
  2. Boil 1 cup of water in a pot and remove from heat.
  3. Add the Melissa officinalis leaves and flowers to the hot water, or add 1 teaspoon of dried Melissa officinalis.
  4. Steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the liquid into a cup.
  5. Drink the tea hot or cold, up to 3 times a day as needed for a runny nose.

11. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium herbal teas for runny nose

Achillea millefolium teas contains flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and essential oils that are beneficial for a runny nose.

The flavonoids, particularly apigenin and luteolin, have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate allergy symptoms. The sesquiterpene lactones, such as achillicin, also possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the nasal passages and reduce swelling. The essential oils, including borneol and bornyl acetate, have expectorant properties that can help loosen and clear mucus from the nasal passages.

By consuming Achillea millefolium teas, these compounds work together to help alleviate a runny nose and promote a sense of relief.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Achillea millefolium leaves and flowers, or 2 teaspoons of dried leaves and flowers.
  2. Heat 1 cup of water in a pot until it starts boiling.
  3. Remove the boiling water from heat and add the gathered Achillea millefolium leaves and flowers.
  4. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  5. Drink 1 cup of the tea, 2-3 times a day, as needed to relieve runny nose symptoms.

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FAQ

Can drinking herbal tea prevent runny nose from forming?

Drinking herbal tea may help ease a runny nose.

Certain teas, like peppermint and eucalyptus, have natural decongestant properties that can help clear airways and reduce congestion.

They work by loosening mucus and reducing swelling in the nasal passages, which can provide some relief from a runny nose.

Is it safe to consume herbal teas for runny nose every day?

While herbal teas can be helpful for a runny nose, drinking them daily might not be completely safe.

Some herbal teas contain caffeine and other stimulants that can be a problem if you consume them regularly. Additionally, some herbs can interact with medications or worsen underlying health conditions.

It's best to use them in moderation.

How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in runny nose?

Herbal teas can help alleviate a runny nose by reducing inflammation and congestion.

Some people notice relief within a few hours, while others may not feel the effects until a day or two later.

The timing depends on the individual and the specific herbal tea being consumed.

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