Herbal Relief for Nasal Congestion

Obstruction of the nasal passages is usually due to an infection of some type, or can be caused by allergies and hay fever. Symptoms that result from nasal congestion can be a runny nose, swollen nasal membranes and difficulty breathing. Herbs can offer some relief from nasal congestion using teas, supplements, tinctures or steam inhalations.

Teas

• Teas are an optimal way to treat nasal congestion; they have the benefit of soothing nasal passages with steam as well as useful properties such as stimulating the immune system. Herbs such as yarrow, elder, peppermint and catnip can be combined in a tea to treat congestion of the nasal passages. These are diaphoretic herbs, meaning they encourage the immune system functioning by raising the body temperature. Raising body temperature helps the body defend itself against viruses. Catnip, which is a powerful decongestant, has the added benefit of aiding in relaxation. Combine equal part of these dried herbs to make a tea. Add a little more of the peppermint if you like, to improve the flavor. Make an infusion for the tea by steeping 1 tsp. of the mixture in 1 cup of boiling water water for between five and 10 minutes. Strain and drink while still warm. Take three to four times a day. The last cup taken at night will encourage sleep.

  Another tea that is beneficial for reducing congestion is sage tea. Common dried sage purchased at the grocery store is a potent remedy when it comes to treating colds and the congestion. Sage is an antiseptic and an astringent, drying up congestion and preventing post nasal drip. Steep 1 tsp. of dried sage in 1/2 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain and drink. This is such an effective drying agent for congestion, so do not use for more than a day or two.

Tinctures

• Tinctures are helpful in treating various symptoms of colds and can help ease nasal congestion. Several herbs work in a synergistic fashion to clear upper respiratory infections and congestion. Echinacea is particularly effective when combined with elder, usnea, wild indigo and clove. All of these are available in tincture from at health food stores. A recommended dose to treat nasal congestion is two parts of the echinacea tincture with one part of each of the other herbal tinctures. Take about 1 tsp. of this tincture three times a day to relieve congestion. Limit consumption of this formula to no more than one week.

  While herbal formulas can help ease nasal congestion, consult your physician if you continue to experience nasal congestion symptoms, as you may need more conventional treatment.