Chinese Herbs For Runny Nose

Allergic rhinitis, or a runny nose, is the body's reaction to inhaled irritants. Factors other than allergies that may cause nasal discharge are head colds, flu or other upper respiratory conditions. Symptoms may include nasal discharge, pressure and pain in the sinuses, sneezing and headache. Treatments for a runny nose include various Chinese herbs. Although herbs may be helpful for a nasal discharge, they may also cause side effects. A health practitioner should be consulted before using Chinese herbs.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavanoid and antioxidant used in Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine as a natural antihistamine, according to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Quercetin is the red pigment found in apples and red onions. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that in tests, quercetin prevented histamine release, although additional research is necessary to substantiate these claims. Anecdotal evidence indicates that quercetin may also act as an anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce swelling and pain associated with allergic rhinitis, asthma and other upper respiratory conditions associated with nasal discharge. It is available in health food stores. A health practitioner should be consulted to confirm whether this supplement is appropriate for each individual case.

Butterbur

Use both in Eastern and Western medicine, the herb butterbur may be helpful for runny noses, according to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Butterbur acts as an antihistamine, although it produces no side effects such as drowsiness or dizziness. However, butterbur is not advised for people with ragweed allergies. It is in the same family as ragweed and may worsen allergic rhinitis symptoms. A health practitioner should be consulted before using this herb.

Sho-seiryu-to

The NYU Langone Medical Center states that an herbal formula known as Sho-seiryu-to shows promise for the treatment and relief allergic rhinitis symptoms. Sho-seiryu-to has been approved by the Japanese health ministry for use for this condition. It is available from herbal stores selling Chinese and Japanese herbal cures, and online. Side effects may occur from one or more of the herbs in this formula. A health practitioner experienced in using this remedy should be consulted for recommendations pertaining to frequency and size of dose.

Biminne

Biminne is a combination herbal tonic consisting of 11 Chinese herbs, which together show promise in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, according to the NYU Langone Medical Center. Clinical trials performed in May 2002 with this herbal combination indicate significant improvement for some of the symptoms, reports the Ann Allergy Asthma Immunology Journal. Side effects are possible from one or more of the herbs in this tonic. People wishing to try this treatment for allergies should consult with a health practitioner who is familiar with these herbs.

Euphrasia Officinalis

Euphrasia, or eyebright, is used in both Eastern and Chinese medicine for relief from allergic rhinitis. It may inhibit watery eyes and congestion with a runny nose related to hay fever, according to the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Because side effects may occur, a health practitioner should be consulted before using euphrasia.