Nasal Drip and Healing Herbs

Also known as sinusitis or catarrh, nasal drip can be caused by colds, allergies, flu, hormonal changes, or food sensitivity. The condition is the result of excess mucus created in the sinuses and membranes lining the nose. The mucus traps tiny particles before they can be cleansed out of the system through the lungs, which affects the upper respiratory system, making it difficult to breathe.

There are many herbs that help to dissolve mucus, helping to reduce inflammation in the sinus area as well as diminish pesky congestion. Taking herbs to treat sinusitis is a safe and time-tested way to treat the body with conscious care. Easily replenished, natural herbs are generally inexpensive and available in most health food stores. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbs do not require a prescription and do not produce side effects. Herbs will not only reduce your symptoms, but also help to treat and eliminate the root of the problem.

Natural Herbs for Curing Nasal Drip

Here is a partial list of some very effective herbs for treating nasal drip or sinusitis. They can be used on their own or combined in a tea or tincture. When taken as an tea, organic honey can be added as a sweetener if desired.

Anise seed: helps to break down collected mucus and functions as an expectorant.

Barberry: an anti-microbial, barberry contains alkaloids to fight against infection and stimulate the immune system.

Echinacea: boosts the immune system while treating and eliminating infection.

Echinacea: Over 250 Years of Medical Use

Eucalyptus:  loosens mucus in the respiratory system, works as a powerful antiseptic, and helps to prevent infection. A tea made with the leaves is can be used as a gargle. You can also place fresh eucalyptus leaves in a deep pan filled with boiled water and place a towel over your head to inhale the steam, which will cause mucus be eliminated through the nose and throat.

Home Remedies For Sinus Infection – Eucalyptus

Fenugreek: a strong astringent that helps t relieve congestion and allow the body to eliminate excess mucus through expectoration.

Goldenseal has similar properties to Echinacea, boosting the immune system and effectively dealing with infections.

Licorice: an excellent anti-inflammatory.

Slippery Elm powder: soothes mucus membranes and functions as an anti-inflammatory.

Additional Cures

German practitioners of natural medicine use a combination of gentian root, primrose flowers, sorrel, elder flowers, and vervain to drain the sinuses. This mixture can be found in some health food stores as a packaged tea or tincture, or you can make your own.

Combining crushed black peppercorns with honey helps to breaks up mucus and warm the body so that no more mucus forms.

Horseradish helps to dissolve mucus. You can either grate fresh horseradish and eat one teaspoonful three times a day, or take a half a teaspoon of the tincture three times a day to help cure nasal drip.

The Author:

M.F. Kadison – The Body In Form is about developing healthful habits that promote vitality, balance, and wellness as a way of life.