Homemade Medicines for Stuffy & a Runny Nose

Nasal congestion and a runny nose are some of the most bothersome symptoms of a cold, flu, or seasonal allergies. Over-the-counter pills, liquids, and nasal sprays are one option, but there are also some simple remedies that can be made in your very own kitchen. Because these remedies are made from natural ingredients, they are usually quite safe. If you should have any concern about using any of the ingredients in these remedies, consult your physician.

Steam

• Steam is a great way to clear up a runny nose and nasal congestion. Place a vaporizer near you or just lean over a pot of boiling water and inhale. One way to make this remedy even more effective is to add a substance such as eucalyptus oil, white vinegar, or tea tree oil to the water in the pot or vaporizer. These substances can give the steam an extra boost to clear the nasal passages. Tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil are both widely available in most health food stores. The steam from a warm bath or shower will work, as well.

Saline

• Another homemade remedy for treating a stuffy or runny nose is a saline nasal spray. This very simple remedy involves boiling 1 L of water and adding 1 tsp. of salt. Once cooled, store the solution in a sterile container and use a dropper or nasal syringe to place a few drops of the solution in each nostril, allowing it to drip down the nasal passages.

Spices

• Spicy or pungent flavors added to food are yet another method of clearing a stuffy nose. When you have a case of nasal congestion, try adding some black pepper, cayenne pepper, horseradish, garlic, or onion to your food. The spices can help open up blocked nasal passages and help you breathe a little easier, since they help open up the blood vessels in the nose and encourage drainage. Ethnic foods like Chinese food, Indian food, and Mexican food already contain many of these spices and may help with congestion.