Which drink is good for sneezing? Natural remedies to soothe your symptoms

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

An overactive immune response, often triggered by allergens, releases histamine, the chemical primarily responsible for sneezing and congestion. The right drink can provide soothing relief, manage symptoms, and help address the root cause, making you wonder: which drink is good for sneezing?

Quick Summary

Several beverages offer symptomatic relief and support the immune system to combat sneezing, whether caused by allergies or a cold. Options range from anti-inflammatory herbal teas and warm broths to immune-boosting juices and potent shots. Proper hydration is key, while avoiding dehydrating substances like caffeine and alcohol can prevent worsening of symptoms.

Key Points

Ginger Tea: Acts as a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory to reduce sneezing caused by allergies.
Peppermint Tea: The menthol helps open nasal passages, providing a natural decongestant effect that can alleviate sneezing related to congestion.
Honey-Lemon Water: This soothing warm beverage uses Vitamin C to lower histamine and honey to coat an irritated throat.
Hydration is Crucial: Drinking plenty of water or clear broth helps thin mucus and flush out irritants, which can prevent sneezing.
Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Caffeine and alcohol should be limited, as they can cause dehydration and worsen allergy or cold symptoms.
Turmeric Milk: The anti-inflammatory curcumin in turmeric can help calm an overactive immune response responsible for sneezing.

The Power of Warm Herbal Teas

Warm herbal teas offer a dual-action benefit for those experiencing frequent sneezing: the anti-inflammatory properties of the herbs themselves and the decongestant effect of the steam. Inhaling the steam helps to loosen thick mucus and soothe irritated nasal passages, which can be a direct trigger for sneezing fits. The right herbal blend can calm your system and reduce your body's histamine response naturally.

Soothing Ginger Tea

Ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory and natural antihistamine that can help reduce the chemicals that trigger allergic reactions and sneezing.

Preparation: Simply add a few slices of fresh, peeled ginger root to boiling water and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. For a more soothing flavor, you can strain the tea and mix in a tablespoon of honey and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Menthol-Rich Peppermint Tea

Menthol, a key compound in peppermint, acts as a natural decongestant, helping to open up blocked nasal passages and make breathing easier. Peppermint tea also has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritation.

Preparation: Steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes. The steam from the cup provides an added decongestant effect.

Natural Antihistamine Nettle Tea

Stinging nettle has been studied for its ability to naturally block histamine receptors, which is particularly beneficial for allergic rhinitis sufferers.

Preparation: Nettle tea can be purchased in ready-made tea bags or as loose leaves. Steep the leaves in hot water for 10 minutes to enjoy its natural antihistamine benefits.

Vitamin-Packed Juices and Shots

Freshly pressed juices are an excellent way to flood your body with immune-boosting vitamins and anti-inflammatory compounds. Unlike store-bought juices that are often high in sugar and from concentrate, homemade or cold-pressed versions retain more nutritional power.

Citrus Juices: Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are loaded with Vitamin C, a natural antihistamine that can reduce histamine levels in the body. A daily shot of fresh lemon water can also help boost your immune system.
Pineapple Juice: Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system caused by allergies.
Ginger Shots: For a potent dose, a shot of fresh, cold-pressed ginger and lemon can provide a powerful anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effect.

The All-Purpose Hydration Power of Broths and Water

Staying well-hydrated is crucial when you are sick or experiencing allergies. Dehydration can cause mucus to thicken, which exacerbates congestion and postnasal drip, a common trigger for sneezing.

Clear Warm Broth: Warm fluids like chicken or vegetable broth can thin mucus and provide soothing warmth to a sore throat or irritated nasal passages. Opt for low-sodium varieties to avoid dehydration.
Plain Water: Water is the best choice for flushing out allergens and keeping your mucous membranes lubricated.

Other Anti-Inflammatory Options

Beyond teas and juices, other drinks can help combat the inflammation associated with sneezing.

Turmeric Milk (Golden Milk): Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps calm an overactive immune system. To prepare, simply warm milk (dairy or plant-based) with a half teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper to enhance absorption.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Drink: A drink made from warm water, a tablespoon of honey, and 1-2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar can help thin mucus and fight bacterial growth.

What to Avoid to Reduce Sneezing

While some drinks can help, others may worsen your symptoms by promoting dehydration or inflammation.

Caffeine: Drinks like coffee and black tea can act as diuretics and cause dehydration, which may thicken mucus.
Alcohol: Similar to caffeine, alcohol can dehydrate you and exacerbate symptoms. Some alcoholic beverages are also high in histamine.
High-Sugar Juices and Sodas: High sugar intake can increase inflammation and may suppress the immune system.
Dairy: Some individuals find that dairy products, particularly milk, can increase mucus thickness and worsen congestion. For those with allergies, this might exacerbate post-nasal drip and subsequent sneezing.

Comparison Table: Drinks for Sneezing Relief


Drink	Primary Benefit	Mechanism	Preparation	Avoid If...
Ginger Tea	Anti-inflammatory, antihistamine	Reduces inflammatory proteins and blocks histamine production	Simmer fresh ginger slices in hot water; add lemon and honey for flavor.	You have a sensitive stomach; start with small amounts.
Peppermint Tea	Decongestant, anti-inflammatory	Menthol opens nasal passages; reduces inflammation	Steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water.	You have GERD, as it can relax the esophageal sphincter.
Honey-Lemon Water	Soothing, immune-boosting	Honey coats throat; Vitamin C reduces histamine	Mix honey and lemon juice into warm water.	Do not give honey to children under 1 year old.
Apple Cider Vinegar Drink	Mucus-thinning, antibacterial	Thins mucus and inhibits bacterial growth	Mix 1-2 tbsp ACV and honey in warm water.	You have gastrointestinal issues like acid reflux or ulcers.
Turmeric Milk	Powerful anti-inflammatory	Curcumin reduces inflammation and helps calm immune response	Warm milk with turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper.	You take blood thinners or have gallbladder issues.

Conclusion

For those seeking a remedy for sneezing, several natural and soothing options exist. Warm beverages like ginger, peppermint, and nettle tea can provide direct relief by reducing inflammation and congestion. Nutrient-dense drinks such as fresh juices rich in Vitamin C, immune-supporting broths, and even a turmeric milk can bolster your body’s defenses and minimize symptoms. The right choice depends on the underlying cause, whether it's an allergy or a cold, but staying well-hydrated is a universal constant. By understanding these options and what to avoid, you can make informed choices to naturally manage your symptoms and find relief.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. For persistent or severe conditions, please consult a healthcare professional.

For more detailed information on specific allergens and managing symptoms, consider visiting an authoritative resource such as the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, drinking hot herbal tea can help stop sneezing, particularly when accompanied by congestion. The steam helps to loosen mucus, while anti-inflammatory and antihistamine herbs in the tea can address the root cause of the sneezing.

Freshly squeezed orange juice is a good choice for allergies due to its high Vitamin C content, which acts as a natural antihistamine to help lower histamine levels in the body. However, avoid sugary juices from concentrate, as excess sugar can promote inflammation.

Staying hydrated is crucial for reducing sneezing because fluids thin the mucus in your nasal passages. If you are dehydrated, mucus can become thick and sticky, which increases congestion and nasal irritation that can trigger sneezing.

Yes, it is advisable to avoid drinks containing caffeine and alcohol, as both can lead to dehydration and potentially worsen symptoms. Some people with allergies also find that dairy products can thicken mucus.

Ginger tea contains bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and natural antihistamine properties. These compounds can help reduce the body's inflammatory response and alleviate symptoms like congestion and sneezing.

Golden milk is a warm drink made with turmeric. The active compound, curcumin, is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can help calm an overactive immune response related to allergies. A pinch of black pepper helps with absorption.

An apple cider vinegar drink, made with warm water and honey, can help thin out mucus and provide relief from congestion and sinus pressure. The antimicrobial properties of ACV can also be beneficial in fighting off infections.