A runny nose is quite a common ailment, particularly during a changing season. It happens when there is excess buildup of mucus in the sinus and nasal passages. The increased production of mucus is sometimes good because it basically flushes out viruses that cause cold and flu.Besides, changing weather, other factors that cause runny nose are common cold, allergic reaction and sinus infection. It might be a minor ailment but it is essential to cure it on time. Otherwise, it may lead to cough, earache and headache.Instead of over-the-counter medicines, runny nose can best be treated with natural home remedies. They are safe and do not make you feel drowsy like allopathic medicines. This is why we bring to you a few such natural treatments. Take a look!

1. Mustard Oil

Mustard oil possesses antibiotic, anti-viral and anti-histamine properties, which give instant relief from the several symptoms of a runny nose.All you need to do is heat some mustard oil till it becomes lukewarm. Now, using a dropper, put two drops of this oil in each nostril. This will surely help in clearing up the nasal passage. Follow this remedy three times in a day.Try another option by adding three tablespoons of mustard oil and one tablespoon of caraway seeds in some water. Now boil this solution and then inhale its steam. This will clear your respiratory congestion and provide relief from runny nose. Follow it two times in a day.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is the best solution for several types of viral infections including a runny nose. It possesses antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, which are extremely essential for curing runny nose and cold.All you need to do is soak half teaspoon of dry and ground turmeric in one cup of linseed oil. Now heat this concoction till it reaches its smoking point. Slowly inhale the smoke through one nostril and then the other. Do this twice in a day regularly.Alternately, add half teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of lukewarm milk. Consume it two times a day. This will help in loosen up deposited mucus in the body. This remedy is also a superb remedy for cough, cold, sore throat and asthma. If you wish you can also add a pinch of black pepper in it.

3. Ginger

Ginger too possesses antioxidants, anti-viral, anti-toxic and anti-fungal properties, which are essential for ensuring quick relief from annoying symptoms of runny nose.Just chew a few raw slices of ginger after sprinkling some salt on it. Follow this remedy a couple of times in a day for quick relief.Try another option by cutting a few thin slices of ginger. Add them in a cup of water and boil for a few minutes. Afterwards strain and add a little honey. Consume this ginger tea while it is lukewarm. Also, boil one teaspoon of ginger powder in two cups of water and then inhale the steam of this decoction. Ginger supplements are also available but consume them only after consulting your doctor.

4. Garlic

 Garlic is a powerhouse of anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties, thus an excellent treatment for runny nose.Prepare some garlic soup by boiling three cloves of chopped garlic in about a cup of water. Let the solution simmer for a few minutes. Later strain the solution and mix some sugar in it. Consume it two times in a day. Alternately, chew a clove of garlic at least three times in a day. This will keep your body warm and relieve the symptoms of runny nose. Garlic supplements can also be consumed only after the prescription of a doctor.

5. Salt Water

Salt water helps in thinning the mucus and thus opens up blocked nasal passage.Add half teaspoon of table salt in two cups of warm water. Stir well and then put two drops of this solution in your nose using a dropper. Inhale it gently and then blow your nose to remove the excess mucus and solution. Do it at least two tomes in a day.