Therapeutic Herbal Teas To Relieve Sneezing

Your nose and throat are lined with extremely sensitive mucous membranes that can get easily irritated by an inhaled allergen.

The body subsequently tries to expel the foreign irritant by forcefully releasing air through the nose and mouth in the form of sneezing.

You exercise no control over this natural response of the body but there are things you can do to manage it.

# Chamomile tea

Chamomile is a medicinal herb that is credited with significant antihistamine properties, which can instantly help curb the inflammatory response that triggers a sneeze.

You can consume the therapeutic goodness of chamomile in the form of a tea, using tea bags, instant mixes, or dried herb, all of which are easily available in grocery stores.

Directions:

- Boil a cup of water, add one teaspoon of loose chamomile tea or tea bag in it, and let it steep for a few minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, add a bit of honey to it for better taste and drink while hot.

# Ginger

Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce the secretion of mucus triggered by a cold infection that ultimately clogs up the airways and leads to sneezing or coughing.

Directions:

- Boil a few small pieces of ginger in water for a few minutes.
- Strain the liquid in a cup.
- Add some milk and honey or palm sugar if you like your tea slightly sweet.
- Drink it while still hot.

# Avoiding exposure to triggers and allergens

- Stay away from animal dander and relocate pets if needed.
- Lower the pollen content indoors by using air filters and keeping windows closed on high-pollen days.
- Replace furnace filters regularly to prevent dust in the air.
- Kill dust mites by washing linens with hot water.
- Use dust-mite-proof pillow and mattress covers.
- Avoid strong fragrances.
- Clean your surroundings to keep them free of mites and insects.
- Take measures to control any mold spore problem and change houses if necessary.
- Check your showerhead for mold growth, as it can trigger a sneezing bout after bathing.
- Avoid the use of other triggers such as metal and latex if they are known to be an issue.

# Using over-the-counter (OTC) medications

You can buy antihistamines and decongestants from your pharmacy and take them in the prescribed dosage to curb sneezing.

# Treating the root cause

In the case of viral infections such as the flu or common cold, it may be helpful to-

- Use saline nasal rinses or sprays to get relief from a runny or congested nose.
- Take antiviral medications.
- Use nasal sprays that contain a corticosteroid and/or antihistamine to reduce inflammation and prevent sneezing.
- Drink ample fluids.
- Take proper rest.