Under normal circumstances, glands in your nose and throat constantly produce mucus in order to moisten the nasal membranes and fight off infection. When too much mucus builds up, post-nasal drip occurs.

Natural Remedies for Post-Nasal Drip:

For temporarily relief of post-nasal drip, consider these natural remedies, however keep in mind that scientific support for the claim that any remedy can treat post-nasal drip is limited.

1) Nasal Irrigation

Research suggests that nasal irrigation (a simple procedure that involves using a salt-water rinse to clear the nasal passages via neti pot) may help reduce post-nasal drip in people with chronic sinusitis.

2) Ginger

Although ginger hasn't been studied for its effects on post-nasal drip, the herb is thought to help relieve congestion, which may be beneficial for people with post-nasal drip. Since it's important for individuals with post-nasal drip to drink plenty of fluids, try sipping ginger tea. 

What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

Post-nasal drip may be caused by a number of conditions or health issues, including:

• bacterial infections
• viral infections that cause the common cold
• seasonal flu
• allergies
• head injury
• use of nasal sprays
• sinusitis
• gastroesophageal reflux

If the mucus secretions associated with post-nasal drip are thin and clear, the condition is likely caused by colds, flu, allergies, cold temperatures, exposure to bright lights, certain foods or spices, pregnancy, hormonal changes, use of certain medications (such as birth control pills and blood pressure drugs), or structural abnormalities (such as a deviated or irregular nasal septum).

If the secretions are thick, it's more likely that post-nasal drip is caused by dryness in indoor air, sinus infections, hay fever, or food allergies (especially to dairy products).

What Are The Symptoms of Post-Nasal Drip?

Along with the sensation of liquid dripping from the back of your nose and into your throat, post-nasal drip may produce the following symptoms:

• a cough that tends to worsen at night
• sore throat
• ear pain
• sinus pain in the face
• swelling of tonsils or other tissues in the throat

Using Natural Remedies for Post-Nasal Drip:

In order to properly treat post-nasal drip, it's important to have your ears, nose, and throat examined so that your doctor may determine the underlying cause. If your post-nasal drip is caused by a bacterial infection, for instance, you may require antibiotics.

Article courtesy of AltMedicine.About.com, written by Cathy Wong, ND, and found with sources here.