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10 Ways to Get Rid Of Runny Nose

10-ways-get-rid-runny-nose

A runny nose is a very common and annoying problem. It occurs when there is increased mucus in the sinus and nasal passages. The increased mucus production is the body’s way of flushing cold or flu viruses, irritants and allergens out of the body. Some of the most common causes of a runny nose are the common cold, an allergic reaction, a sinus infection and a sudden change in weather. If not treated timely, it can lead to coughing, earaches, headaches and other problems. Here are some simple home remedies can give you instant relief and decrease the intensity of your symptoms, without any side effects.

10. Salt Water

Salt-Water

Salt water alleviates the irritation that accompanies a runny nose. It helps to clear the nasal passages of irritants and thin the mucus. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with 2 cups of warm water (distilled). Drip a few drops of this salt solution into each nostril with your head tilted back. Inhale very gently to draw the solution into your nasal passages. Now blow your nose to remove the excess mucus and the salt solution. Repeat a couple of times a day.

9. Steam

Steam

Steam is a versatile remedy that used to treat nasal problems. It helps to clear out excess mucus which causes runny nose and sneezing, along with irritation. Add few drops of eucalyptus oil or menthol oil into a bowl of hot water. Drape a towel over your head and inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. Blow your nose to clear the mucus. Repeat 3 – 4 times a day. Regular hot water showering or bathing can also help.

8. Ginger

gignger

Ginger contains antioxidants, antiviral, anti-toxic and anti-fungal properties that help to give quick relief from a runny nose and its symptoms. Peel some fresh ginger, cut into small pieces and sprinkle with salt. Chew several times a day. Or, make ginger tea and have it few times a day. Boil a teaspoon of ginger powder in two cups of hot water. Inhale the steam for few minutes. Alternatively, use ginger in the form of lozenges.

7. Garlic

Garlic

Garlic contains strong and natural, antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Make garlic soup by boiling 3 – 4 cloves of garlic in a cup of water. Strain the solution and add small amount of sugar and drink this soup twice a day. Or, you can simply chew a small piece of garlic 3 – 4 times a day to warm up your body.

6. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus-Oil

Eucalyptus oil acts as decongestant and can give instant relief. Add seven drops of eucalyptus oil and four drops of each of lavender oil and peppermint oil to a bowl of warm water. Cover your head with a towel and bend over the bowl. Inhale the steam.Repeat 2-3 times a day. Eucalyptus oil can also be inhaled on a handkerchief throughout the day to get relief.

5. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne-Pepper

Cayenne Pepper contains antihistamine which clears up the nasal congestion and runny nose. Although it will increase the nasal discharge, it will flush out the blockage and toxins that cause your runny nose. So make sure you include it in your diet and eat it regularly.

4. Honey

Honey

Honey has antibacterial and antiviral properties which help to reduce runny nose. Mix a tablespoon of honey and 3 – 4 drops of fresh lemon juice in a glass of warm water. Drink while warm, twice a day. This process will strengthen the immune system.

3. Basil

Basil

Holy Basil or Indian Tulsi contains antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties which help to heal the runny nose by warming your body from inside. Chew 3 – 4 fresh basil leaves early in the morning with on an empty stomach and before going to bed.Repeat this chewing regularly. Add a little jaggery to 2 – 3 basil leaves. Alternatively, add 8 – 10 basil leaves and 5 ground cloves to a cup of water. Boil for about 10 minutes, adding a small amount of sugar. Allow it to get cool and then drink twice a day.

2. Mustard Oil

Mustard-Oil

Mustard oil contains antibiotic, antiviral and antihistamine properties which help in providing instant relief. Heat a small amount of mustard oil. Pour a drop or two of the oil in each nostril with a dropper. Wait a while between each nostril. Wait for two minutes. Blow your nose to clear the nostril. Or, Take 2 – 3 tablespoons of mustard oil and a tablespoon of caraway seeds. Mix it well and pour it in a pot of boiling water. Breathe the steam as the strong aroma of this mustard oil will clear up the respiratory system. Alternatively, add mustard oil in your cooking.

1. Turmeric

Turmeric

The herb has strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it very effective for treating a runny nose as well as a cold. Soak one-half teaspoon of dry, ground turmeric in a cup of linseed oil. Hold the mixture over heat until it starts smoking. Slowly inhale the smoke through one nostril and then the other. Or, mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drink it before going to bed.

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