One of the most common symptoms of a cold is a runny nose. A runny nose can be annoying and may seem like it will never end, but don’t worry! There are some natural and home remedies you can use to stop a runny nose. Keep reading to find out how to stop a runny nose with these top remedies.
1. Hot Beverages
It’s very important to stay hydrated when you are sick. Drinking lots of fluids can help thin mucus and make it easier for your immune system to work at its best. Hot liquids such as herbal tea or chicken broth not only provide much-needed hydration but are also a solution for how to stop a runny nose as their heat and steam help decongest your airways. Some teas even contain antihistamine and anti-inflammatory herbs such as ginger, chamomile, nettle, or mint that can act as natural decongestants.
2. Steam Inhalation
Studies have shown that steam is a great answer to the question of how to stop a runny nose. You can run a hot shower or bath and sit in the steamy bathroom to breathe in the moist air. Or, inhale warm steam from a humidifier or a bowl of hot water. Steam inhalation can help thin and loosen mucus in your sinuses to relieve a runny nose. The moisture will also soothe dry, irritated sinuses.
3. Saline Nasal Rinse
A saline nasal rinse is another solution for how to stop a runny nose and relieve sinus congestion. You can use nasal irrigation tools like a neti pot, nasal bulb, or saline nasal spray to rinse your sinuses. These devices allow you to pour a saline or saltwater solution into one of your nostrils to rinse mucus out of your sinuses and to provide moisture to your dry, irritated nasal passages.
4. Spicy Food
Eating spicy foods may be able to help stop a runny nose, but sometimes it can also make it worse. If you can tolerate a bit of spice, try adding some heat to your food. Spices such as cayenne, habanero, wasabi, ginger, and horseradish are great options. These spices dilate your sinus passageways which may help relieve your nasal congestion and runny nose.
5. Warm Compress
If you are wondering how to stop a runny nose, try applying a warm compress or washcloth to your nose and forehead. You can do this several times a day. A warm compress can be beneficial because it boosts blood circulation in your sinuses and adds moisture to the air as you breathe. All of this can help break up nasal congestion and relieve symptoms like a runny nose.
6. Rest
If you want to know how to stop a runny nose, one of the most important things you should do is get plenty of sleep and rest. Your body needs sleep so it can heal itself from the illness. When you sleep, your body produces new immune cells to fight the virus that’s causing your sickness. Rest also allows your body to devote the energy it needs to keep your immune system active.
Boost Your Immune System
These are some of the best remedies to help stop a runny nose. However, the best way to stop a runny nose is having a strong immune system that can fight off illness. To recover from illness and to avoid getting sick in the first place, it’s important to keep your immune system strong by providing it with the nutrients it needs to function. Find out more about the top 5 vitamins that can boost your immune system so you can keep your body healthy and strong.