The nose knows the difference; quick natural remedies for the runny, stuffy nose

Has your stuffy, runny and red nose got you feeling puny and irritated? Never fear…some home remedies are here to help you through the beginnings of springtime!

First, you need to understand what is at the root of your runny, stuffy nose. Is it an allergic reaction or an infection? In order to treat it properly, first identify the problem to find the best solution. Below is a "problem" versus "answer" scenario that might just help you find some quick and easy steps to take in order to start feeling some relief:

Problem - Swelling – Our nasal passages swell and block our nasal membranes as a sign of an allergic reaction and/or infection. This swelling blocks the mucus (which drains through our nose) causing a place where infection can grow.

Answer
– Cooler temperature and balanced humidity – You might need to wear an extra layer, but cooler temperatures assist in opening up our nasal passages. Warmer temperatures can keep the swelling continuing. If you're slightly "chilly" then you're probably on the right track to helping the swelling go down. Humidity is also a key component in continuing or preventing swelling. A room that is too "moist" will produce mold. Keeping a balance of humidity in the air during the wintertime is recommended. The EPA recommends a balance of humidity in our home between 30 – 50%; however, above 40% combined with poor circulation can cause mold to grow.

 

Problem – Runny nose – Most runny noses are simply irritated nasal passageways discharging mucus while fighting off infection. From herbal teas to nasal washes, there are many natural ways to treat a runny nose. If the mucus discharge is "clear" then the runny nose is being caused (more than likely) by allergies. White mucus usually occurs during colder seasons and may be a combination of the common cold and/or allergies. White, yellow, and/or green mucus is usually a sign of infection.

Answer –
Once the color of the mucus changes from clear to any color (white, yellow, green) I recommend seeing a doctor for treatment as you (probably) have an infection that needs to be treated medically, especially if you first have tried using home remedies and they didn't work. "Neti pots" (which can be purchased at any drug store) provide a flushing out of the nasal membranes. Home remedies include a mixture of ½ teaspoon of salt mixed in 8 oz of warm water or nasal rinse bottles with salt based solutions (you can find these in your local Walgreens, RiteAid, Walmart or any pharmacy). This is the remedy I commonly use whenever I need to clear out my nasal passages. Ginger or nettle herbal teas are amongst the few natural resources that help relieve runny noses. Mustard or thyme oil (warm/heated) used with a dropper (just a drop or two will do) into each nostril is also an old fashion remedy (make sure it's only warm and not hot).

Problem – Headache across the bridge of your nose, forehead and cheeks - Headaches are usually a sign of dehydration and swelling but can also be a sign of infection. If accompanied by a fever then you probably have an infection and need medical treatment.

Answer - Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water will always help. Eating a healthy balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and plenty of natural juices (i.e. orange juice) help to balance your overall health. However, if you are having an allergic reaction (to anything including certain foods) and/or an infection then the symptoms will continue and further examination by a medical professional (i.e. allergist, family doctor) is recommended.

 

Quick tip: If it "clearly" drips – it's probably just seasonal allergies. If it's "colorful, continuous and accompanied by a fever and pain" then medical intervention is the answer.