A runny nose is anything but pleasant. Although it can clear by itself with time, home remedies for runny nose can help to quicken the healing process. Although these may not cure the causes of the runny nose, they will thin the mucus, enhance nasal drainage and with time promote its drying. Apart from the home remedies, there are natural remedies for runny nose as well.

Symptoms of Runny Nose
The characteristic triad of runny nose, watery eyes and sneezing is usually a sign of allergic rhinitis [1]. Hay fever is a kind of allergic rhinitis. This is an allergic reaction. It can be triggered by things like pollen, dander, grass, dust, mites, minute insects and their smells, pets and mold. In some cases, it is because of an upper respiratory tract infection, in which case there may be sore throat.

Home Remedies for Runny Nose
Eucalyptus Oil to Stop Runny Nose
This oil acts as a decongestant and is an instant cure for runny nose.
-- Put hot water in a large bowl
-- Add about seven drops of eucalyptus oil followed by four drops of peppermint oil and lavender oil each.
-- Cover your head using a towel and tilt the head towards the bowl so the scented steam hits the nostrils.
-- Inhale the steam and repeat procedure three times each day.
-- Another way to reduce the symptoms of a runny nose `is to put some drops of the oil on a handkerchief and keep inhaling its scent all through the day.

Steam to Dry Up a Runny Nose
This is an effective home remedy for runny nose. It will help in clearing out mucus which may be causing sneezing and a running nose.

Fill a bowl with hot water and with a towel covering your head, hold your face down. Inhale the steam for ten minutes and blow your nose after the process.
Adding a few drops of menthol or eucalyptus oil would make the steam more effective.
The hot steam effect can also be attained by taking a cold shower.

Mustard Oil
This oil contains antihistamine and antibiotic properties which qualifies it as one of the fast remedies for runny nose.
-- To clear the nasal passage, heat some mustard oil to slightly warm temperatures. Use a dropper to put a drop or two into each nostril. Do this three times each day
-- Inhale the steam of water that has had a few drops of the oil put in it. This will help to make the system warm
-- Since it is edible, it can also be incorporated in food.