Home Remedies for a Runny Nose

1. Salt Water

Salt water is the best home remedy for alleviating the irritation that accompanies a runny nose. Salt water will help thin the mucus, making it easier and more comfortable to expel. It will also help clear the nasal passages of irritants.

• Mix one-half teaspoon of table salt in two cups of distilled warm water.
• Using a dropper, put a few drops of the solution into each nostril with your head tilted back.
• Inhale very gently to draw the solution further into your nasal passages. Then blow your nose to remove excess mucus and solution.
• Do this a few times at a sitting until you feel relief.
• Repeat a couple of times each day until your condition improves.

2. Steam

Steam is also an effective home remedy for a runny nose. It helps clear out excess mucus that causes a runny nose and sneezing.

• Hold your face over a bowl of hot water, with a towel over your head to trap the steam. Breathe in the steam for about 10 minutes, and then blow your nose. Do this three or four times a day.
• You can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or menthol to the hot water before breathing in the steam.
• Alternatively, you can take a hot shower or bath.