10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Runny Nose

Herbal tinctures for runny nose are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that can effectively alleviate congestion, sinus pressure, and excess mucus production.

These natural remedies help to soothe and calm the nasal passages, reducing inflammation and promoting healthy drainage. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with runny nose include Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Peppermint, which can be taken orally or added to warm tea for instant relief.

By using these tinctures, people with chronic sinus issues or seasonal allergies can breathe easier, sleep better, and enjoy improved overall quality of life.

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

1. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with runny nose because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses.

The bioactive compounds in purple coneflower, such as echinacoside and caffeic acid, work to combat inflammation and relieve congestion, allowing for easier breathing and reduced discharge.

Additionally, the antiviral and antibacterial properties of purple coneflower help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the runny nose, providing a natural solution for sinus relief and respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating the symptoms of a runny nose.
• Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and fluid production in the nasal mucosa, leading to relief from a runny nose.
• Alkylamides: These compounds have immunomodulatory effects, which help to regulate the body's immune response and reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to nasal congestion and runny nose.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are rich in compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, which can help alleviate sinusitis and congestion.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to soothe and calm the nasal passages.
• Flowers: They are a key component in many herbal remedies, as they have antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the echinacea purpurea roots and flowers in the fall when the plant is dormant and the flowers have faded.
2. Dry the roots and flowers in a single layer on paper bags or a drying rack for 1-2 weeks.
3. Chop 1 part of dried echinacea purpurea roots and flowers into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka.
4. Steep the chopped plant material in the vodka for 2-6 weeks in a dark glass jar with a lid, shaking daily.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with runny nose because it contains compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages.

The tannins and flavonoids present in licorice root also work to constrict blood vessels, reducing excess mucus production and sinus pressure. Additionally, licorice root has a natural expectorant effect, helping to loosen and clear out congestion, providing quick relief from a runny nose.

This natural remedy can be especially helpful for those who suffer from allergies or colds.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: These triterpene glycosides exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, quercetin, a flavonoid present in Glycyrrhiza glabra, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help soothe nasal passages and reduce mucus production.
• Liquiritin: A flavanone glycoside, liquiritin has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can help alleviate allergic reactions and reduce nasal discharge associated with runny nose.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: As they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties that can help alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Leaves: As they are rich in flavonoids and saponins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe a runny nose.
• Barks: As they contain a mixture of flavonoids and saponins, similar to the leaves, which can help reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-3 kg of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra from a trusted supplier or cultivated source.
2. Clean and dry the roots completely to prevent any contamination or moisture from affecting tincture quality.
3. Chop 500g of the dried roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for solvent absorption.
4. Steep the chopped roots in 2 liters of 40% ethanol solvent for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Filter the tincture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any solids and achieve a clear liquid consistency.

3. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with runny nose because they contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds help to reduce nasal congestion and swelling, which can contribute to a runny nose. Additionally, dandelion's antihistaminic properties can help to alleviate sinus pressure and itching, providing relief from allergy-related symptoms.

By reducing inflammation and alleviating sinus pressure, herbal dandelion tinctures can help to dry up a runny nose and promote clearer breathing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate symptoms of a runny nose.
• Taraxasterol acetate: This compound has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antihistamine activities, which can help alleviate nasal congestion and runny nose associated with allergies.
• Chlorogenic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and alleviate symptoms of a runny nose.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high concentration of taraxasterol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate nasal congestion.
• Roots: The roots are used for their expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the nasal passages.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their natural antihistamine properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with allergies that often cause a runny nose.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in early spring or late autumn when they are at their most potent.
2. Chop the harvested taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area.
3. Combine 100 grams of chopped taraxacum officinale with 500 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place.

4. Euphorbia esula

Leafy spurge tinctures helps with runny nose because of its natural decongestant properties.

The plant's bioactive compounds, such as sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, work to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating excessive mucus production. As a result, leafy spurge tincture can help to dry up a runny nose and provide fast relief from sinus pressure and discomfort, making it an effective natural remedy for respiratory issues.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and calm the nasal membranes, promoting healthy sinus function.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alkylphenones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose.
• Terpenoids: These bioactive compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat infections and reduce nasal discharge associated with runny nose.
• Phenolic acids: As potent antioxidants, these compounds can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose and other respiratory symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Eucalyptus leaves: Known for their decongestant properties, which help to relieve congestion and runny nose.
• Ginger roots: Used in traditional medicine to treat colds and flu, which can cause runny nose.
• Peppermint leaves: Known for their decongestant and antihistamine properties, which help to relieve congestion and runny nose.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of the roots and stems of the plant in late summer or early fall when the sap is dry.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine 1 part of the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.

5. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow tinctures helps with runny nose because of its natural antihistamine properties, which help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

The flavonoids present in yarrow also have astringent effects, constricting blood vessels and reducing excess mucus production. Additionally, yarrow's antibacterial properties help to combat any underlying infections that may be contributing to the runny nose.

By addressing these factors, herbal yarrow tinctures can provide effective relief from nasal congestion and excessive mucus discharge.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Essential oils: These terpenes help to reduce nasal congestion and runny nose by their decongestant and expectorant properties, making it easier to breathe.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and alleviate runny nose symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These antioxidants can help to soothe and calm the nasal mucosa, reducing inflammation and runny nose symptoms associated with allergies or colds.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly camphor, which helps to reduce nasal congestion and inflammation.
• Flowers: The flowers of Achillea millefolium contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the nasal passages.
• Stems: The stems of the plant contain sesquiterpenes, which have decongestant properties that help to relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh achillea millefolium leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present on the plant.
2. Clean the harvested plant material with water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Chop the clean achillea millefolium plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
4. Combine one part of the chopped plant material with two parts of 80% ethanol in a glass container.
5. Store the container in a cool dark place for four weeks to allow the tincture to mature.

6. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with runny nose because it has natural anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.

The tincture's expectorant properties help loosen and clear out excess mucus, allowing the body to naturally expel it. Additionally, elder tincture's antiviral and antibacterial properties help combat infections that can cause runny noses, such as the common cold or sinusitis.

By addressing the underlying causes of a runny nose, elder tinctures provide effective relief from congestion and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Phenylethylamine: As a natural decongestant and antihistamine, PEA helps to relieve nasal congestion and reduce mucus production, providing relief from runny nose and other allergy symptoms.
• Salicin: A glycoside derived from salicylic acid, salicin has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which help to reduce nasal congestion and promote the clearance of excess mucus, alleviating runny nose symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: Sambucus nigra flowers are used to make tinctures for runny nose due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Fruits: Sambucus nigra fruits are used to make tinctures for runny nose due to their antiviral and antimicrobial properties that help alleviate congestion.
• Leaves: Sambucus nigra leaves are used to make tinctures for runny nose due to their decongestant properties that help relieve nasal congestion.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the sambucus nigra plant material by gently rinsing it with cold water to remove any debris.
3. Steep 250 grams of sambucus nigra plant material in 1 liter of 35% ethanol for 2 weeks to extract the active compounds.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth to remove the plant material and discard the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for up to 2 years.

7. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with runny nose because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.

The herb contains a pigment called lutein, which has been shown to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure. Additionally, pot marigold's ability to soothe and calm the mucous membranes can help alleviate dryness and irritation that often accompany a runny nose.

By using this tincture, individuals can find relief from persistent congestion and discomfort, allowing them to breathe easier and feel more comfortable in their daily lives.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Phenolic acids: As potent antioxidants, phenolic acids can help combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal mucosa, contributing to the reduction of runny nose.
• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections and inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are the primary part used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that can aid in relieving a runny nose.
• Stems: The stems are sometimes used due to their content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help to reduce inflammation and combat infections in the nasal passages.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest calendula officinalis flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them completely to preserve their properties for 2-3 weeks.
2. Chop the dried flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion and tincture making.
3. Combine 1 part calendula flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and shake it every day to facilitate the extraction process for 2-6 weeks.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.

8. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena tinctures helps with runny nose because of its natural antihistamine properties, which help to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages.

The herb's essential oils, such as citral and limonene, have a decongestant effect that can alleviate excess mucus production and sinus pressure, making it an effective remedy for relieving a runny nose.

Additionally, lemon verbena's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the nasal tissues, providing fast and natural relief from congestion and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Verbascoside: Verbascoside has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce nasal inflammation and congestion, alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Ursolic acid: Ursolic acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, thereby alleviating runny nose.
• Verbene: Verbene has a decongestant effect, helping to reduce nasal congestion and alleviate runny nose symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain essential oils and flavonoids that help in reducing inflammation and congestion associated with runny nose.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and essential oils, they help in relieving nasal congestion and runny nose by reducing inflammation and promoting decongestant effects.
• Roots: They contain bioactive compounds that help in reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help alleviate symptoms of runny nose.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh or dried plant tops in early morning after dew has evaporated when flowers are in bloom.
2. Dry the harvested plant material at 70 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to remove excess moisture completely.
3. Combine 1 part of dried plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discard the plant material.

9. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with runny nose because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins present in the herb have a natural decongestant effect, reducing excess mucus production and swelling in the nasal passages. Additionally, the antiviral compounds in Tasmanian blue gum work to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the congestion, helping to clear out the sinuses and restore normal breathing patterns.

As a result, users often experience significant relief from runny nose symptoms and improved respiratory health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Eucalyptol: As a natural decongestant, Eucalyptol helps to reduce swelling in the nasal passages and loosen mucus, providing relief from runny nose symptoms.
• Catechin: This flavonoid acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, which in turn alleviates runny nose symptoms.
• Carnosic acid: As an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, Carnosic acid helps to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nasal passages, providing relief from runny nose and congestion.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Eucalyptus globulus for making tinctures due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant and expectorant.
• Buds: Buds are used for tinctures because they contain a higher concentration of eucalyptol than mature leaves, making them more potent for relieving respiratory issues.
• Stems: Stems are sometimes used for tinctures, although less frequently than leaves and buds, as they still contain some eucalyptol and other medicinal compounds, albeit in smaller quantities.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 1 cup of eucalyptus globulus leaves and flowers at the peak of their fragrance and potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks or until brittle.
3. Combine 1 cup of the dried plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.

10. Solidago virgaurea

Goldenrod tinctures helps with runny nose because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.

The tannins present in goldenrod also act as a natural decongestant, drying up excess mucus and relieving sinus pressure. Additionally, goldenrod's antimicrobial properties help combat infections that can cause chronic runny nose, promoting overall respiratory health.

By reducing inflammation and eliminating underlying causes of congestion, goldenrod tinctures offer a natural remedy for alleviating persistent nasal discharge.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and inflammation, thus alleviating runny nose symptoms.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the body's immune response and reduce nasal discharge.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds can help reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby reducing nasal discharge and alleviating runny nose symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce nasal congestion and runny nose.
• Flowers: Solidago virgaurea flowers contain anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, which help alleviate runny nose and other respiratory issues.
• Stems: The stems of Solidago virgaurea contain bioactive compounds like terpenoids and flavonoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of solidago virgaurea flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Clean the plant material by gently removing dirt and debris with a soft brush.
3. Mix 1 part of solidago virgaurea with 2 parts of vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with runny nose is Echinacea and Goldenseal.

Echinacea, rich in antioxidants, supports the immune system and reduces inflammation. Goldenseal, with its antimicrobial properties, helps combat infections and congestion. Additionally, incorporating a small amount of Eucalyptus tincture can help loosen mucus and clear airways.

A balanced blend of these three tinctures can provide relief from runny nose, congestion, and sinus pressure, promoting a healthy respiratory system.

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

Ailments similar to runny nose that are treated with herbal tinctures are various respiratory issues, such as bronchitis, congestion, and coughs.

Herbal tinctures containing herbs like echinacea, goldenseal, and yarrow are often used to alleviate symptoms of colds, sinus infections, and allergies.

They help reduce inflammation, open airways, and stimulate the immune system, providing relief from discomforting runny noses, sneezing, and congestion.