Runny Nose: 5 Home Remedies
A runny nose is an annoying symptom that occurs when the mucous membrane of the nose is overactive and produces too much fluid to fight off allergens and irritants.
It usually occurs as a result of excessive mucus production due to a respiratory infection, but it can also appear due to hormonal imbalances, prolonged use of medications, or too cold temperatures.
Although the glands in the lining of the nasal passages and the sinuses produce mucus to keep the area lubricated, altering them generates excesses that can cause congestion and make the nose run .
Fortunately, regardless of its cause, there are several natural remedies whose properties help you find relief. While they don’t cure the underlying causes behind this condition, they can help calm this symptom momentarily.
Natural remedies for a runny nose
A publication in Standford Children’s Health points out that a runny nose is a problem that, in most cases, resolves itself. However, if the problem persists for more than 10 days, it could be a symptom of a problem that needs more attention.
Now, depending on the cause, your doctor or ENT may suggest nose washes, oral medications, or nasal sprays. Also, if the situation is severe, surgery may be required.
In milder cases it may be useful to resort to some home remedies to calm the discomfort. However, it must be borne in mind that these are options that cannot rely on the support of scientific evidence and that mostly come from popular culture.
Precisely for this reason, while some people get some relief, others find no effect. However, if you have decided to give it a try, take a look at the following options.
1. Orange peel, apple cider vinegar and honey
This interesting preparation stands out for its significant supply of vitamin C. According to a study published in the journal Nutrients , vitamin C plays an important role in strengthening the immune system and preventing infections.
As we know, colds, flu and other respiratory system infections are a common cause of runny nose (or runny nose). Thus, we can complete the treatment with this interesting classic preparation.
Ingredients
- The zest of an orange.
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
- 5 tablespoons of honey.
Preparation
- First, cut the orange zest into strips and cover them with apple cider vinegar.
- Then, let them dry well and put them to cook over low heat with honey.
- After 3 or 5 minutes, remove them from the heat.
Mode of consumption
- Eat the rinds with honey every night before going to sleep.
- Repeat until completely healed.
2. Onion water
Another traditional remedy that could be helpful in fighting a runny nose is onion. A study published in 2012 showed that, like garlic, onion also has immunostimulating properties that could help boost defenses against pathogens that cause infection.
Although the evidence is quite limited, onion remedies are used in natural medicine as adjuvants to reduce symptoms such as congestion and a runny nose. What are you waiting to try?
Ingredients
- ½ onion
- 1 glass of water
Preparation
- Cut the onion into rings and put them in a glass of hot water.
- Cover the drink and let it rest for 5 minutes, then strain it.
Mode of consumption
- Drink onion water 2 or 3 times a day.
3. Lemon and honey
The classic homemade syrup made from honey and lemon follows in force as one of the best alternatives to curb the symptoms of respiratory diseases.
in fact, some studies report that honey has antioxidant, immunoregulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties that may explain these benefits.
Ingredients
- The juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- ½ glass of water
Preparation
- Combine the lemon juice with the honey and dilute the mixture in half a glass of hot water.
Mode of consumption
- Take this remedy on an empty stomach and repeat the consumption in the middle of the afternoon.
- Carry out the treatment until the symptoms disappear.
4. Cumin
Cumin is an anti-inflammatory spice that can help reduce irritation of the nasal passages in case of congestion or a runny nose. According to a study published in Integrative Medicine Research , its oils are useful in reducing irritation of the mucous membranes in case of sinusitis, cold or cough.
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon of cumin
- 1 glass of water
Preparation
- Add the cumin to a glass of boiling water and cover the drink.
- Wait for it to cool for 10 minutes and strain.
Mode of consumption
- Drink the tea in sips when your nose is runny.
- Drink it twice a day.
5. Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper features an active substance known as capsaicin, which can help loosen mucus and reduce congestion, according to a study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Ingredients
- ¼ teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- ½ glass of water
Preparation
- Make a mixture of ground cayenne pepper and honey.
- Pour the mixture into half a cup of hot water and stir to dissolve well.
- Wait for the drink to rest until it is suitable for consumption.
Mode of consumption
- Swallow the remedy every time you feel a runny nose.
- Tómalo 2 veces al día si es necesario.
Note : avoid this remedy if you are breastfeeding and also if you have kidney disease or liver problems.
Avoid exposing yourself to irritants to stop a runny nose
In addition to consuming these remedies, remember that it is advisable to increase the ingestion of liquids and avoid smoking or contaminated environments. The less we expose our nose to irritants, the faster we will stop the rhinorrhea.
Also, keep these natural remedies in mind as a precaution, especially if you are on medication or if you have an illness. Consult your doctor to find out if you might be experiencing side effects.
