Most nasal bleeding, or epistaxis, occurs from a plexus (congregation) of blood vessels at the root of the nose.
Why Me?
Nosebleeds can occur secondary to infection such as sinusitis or with violent attacks of sneezing.
Trauma, such as a punch to the area, will start a bleed.
The number one cause of nose bleeding in children is picking the nose.
Nose bleeding can be a symptom of high blood pressure.
Blood-thinning drugs, including aspirin and heparin, may be a contributor.
What To Do
Diet
If you are prone to nosebleeds, eat plenty of vitamin K rich foods including green leafy vegies and alfalfa. Vitamin K is necessary for clot formation.
Eat probiotic foods including miso and yoghurt to improve bowel microflora. Vitamin K can be produced by these micro-organisms.
Herbs and Supplements
Drink one or two cups of yarrow or nettle tea. You could also pack a cooled, cooked nettle leaf up your nostril.
Plug nose with gauze soaked in distilled witch hazel (from the chemist).
Take a bioflavonoid supplement each day, particularly rutin which strengthens blood vessel walls.
Drink herbal tisanes containing bioflavonoid rich herbs such as rosehips, elder and hibiscus.
Other Steps
Learn some conflict resolution skills.
Pinch the top of the nose between thumb and forefinger for five to 15 minutes.
Ice the area.
Don’t swallow the blood, it will make you want to vomit. Bend forward and catch the blood in a bowl or tissue.
At a glance
Good food
Green leafy vegies, alfalfa.
Food to avoid
Aspirin.
Remedies to begin
Plug nose with gauze soaked in witch hazel or a nettle leaf, yarrow tea.
