Herbs for Treating Nasal Drip

Herbs and essential oils are used in traditional and modern herbalism to treat nasal drip. Among these are elder, eucalyptus oil, eyebright, goldenseal and peppermint. Nasal drip can be due to nasal congestion caused by infection or allergic reaction. Herbs that treat one form of nasal drip may not treat the other, so pay attention when choosing your remedy.

Elder

• Elder, or Sambucas nigra, is a shrub whose bark, leaves, flowers and berries are used medicinally. According to "The Complete Medicinal Herbal" by Penelope Ody, elder flowers can be used to reduce phlegm from colds and also to treat hay fever. "Natural Standard" by C. Ulbricht and E. Basch states that some research demonstrates that elder may reduce excessive mucus from the sinuses. Elder may be taken as a tea or a tincture, which is an alcohol extract.

Eucalyptus Oil

• Eucalyptus oil is the essential oil of the Eucalyptus globulus tree. It has a strong, invigorating, medicinal smell, and is best known for its antiseptic properties. It also has possible decongestant properties, which---combined with its antiseptic qualities---may make it a good choice for nasal drip from a respiratory infection. However, according to Ulbricht and Basch, there is insufficient evidence to prove its use as a decongestant. For congestion or chest infection, add the oil to hot water and inhale the steam. Alternately, add five drops of eucalyptus oil to a tablespoon of light olive oil and rub on the chest.

Eyebright

• Euphrasia officinalis, also known as eyebright, is a British herb that was traditionally used for eye conditions. It is also known for decreasing phlegm. According to "The Complete Medicinal Herbal," eyebright can be taken as a tincture, tea or in capsule form to reduce nasal mucus. Ody recommends combining this herb with goldenseal and elder.

Goldenseal

• Goldenseal, Hydrastis canadensis, is an herb that was first used by Native Americans. Ody states that, among other effects, goldenseal decreases mucus secretions and mucus membrane inflammation throughout the body, including the nose. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), goldenseal is often combined with Echinacea to treat colds and other upper respiratory infections, as Echinacea boosts the immune system when taken for short periods of time. Goldenseal can be taken as tea, tincture, capsule or tablet.

Peppermint

• Peppermint, Mentha x piperita, is a well-known culinary herb that is also used medicinally. It contains menthol, which you may recognize as the main ingredient in many commercial chest rubs and throat lozenges. The essential oil of peppermint can be inhaled to reduce nasal congestion; add several drops to hot water and inhale the steam for this purpose. According to NCCAM, peppermint oil is also found in capsule and liquid preparations, which should only be taken in small amounts. As an alternative to peppermint oil, peppermint leaves can be prepared as a tea and the steam inhaled. As with any other natural remedy, you should consult with your health care provider before using herbs to treat a medical condition, especially if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.