How To Stop Running Nose and Sneezing: 13 Home Remedies

Running nose and sneezing are hand-in-glove symptoms that occur due to various factors. An irritated nose is your body's defense mechanism to block out foreign particles that can harm your immune system. The lining of your nasal passages will immediately thicken to block the entry of dust, allergens, bacteria, and even viruses to protect you from their invasion. This includes mucus thickening and excessive mucus production to entrap foreign matter before it enters your body.  While your body may be protecting you, it is also causing havoc to your mind, and your well-being as sneezing and blowing your nose can temporarily block your sense of smell, congest your nose, and block your normal breathing. Most times, these symptoms will go away without needing a remedy or medication. However, if you seek immediate relief from these symptoms, consider trying one of the following Home remedies for running nose and sneezing that will instantly stop the secretions. Also Read: 10 Best Cold Medicines for Runny Nose in India

13 Home remedies for running nose and sneezing

1. Drink Coffee -

Coffee is a natural diuretic that releases water from your body. Drinking coffee will thin down the mucus in your nasal passage and help get rid of congestion. It will also help to get rid of any particulate irritant that is causing the sneezes. An additional tip would be to drink a hot cup of coffee since warm beverages can soothe an inflamed area in the nose. 

2. Inhale Eucalyptus oil -

Axe Brand Universal Oil is the most famous and easily available brand worldwide, containing eucalyptus oil. Apply a few drops of this oil to get instant relief from your sneezes or runny nose. This is a sure-fire remedy that has worked for generations in every household. Alternatively, apply a few drops on a handkerchief and inhale it every few minutes. Also Read: Avomine Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Benefits and Side-Effects

3. Drink antihistamine teas -

Certain herbs have antihistamine properties that soothe the inflammation in the nose, remove sneezes, and reduce nasal secretions. Chamomile, mint, and nettle leaves are all herbs that can instantly cure the symptoms of a runny nose. Boil the leaves of these herbs with a little honey or lemon and drink the resulting liquid to get immediate relief. You may also boil these leaves with your favorite tea to make it easier to consume. 

4. Use a Neti pot -

A neti pot drains the nasal passage with a saltwater solution. It helps to cleanse out thick mucus and helps you breathe better immediately. The saline water is poured from one nostril and flows through the other. You will immediately love this remedy after the very first use. 

5. Take a facial stream -

Steam inhalation is a clever way to introduce hot vapors into the nasal passage. This is one of the most effective Home remedies for running nose and sneezing that instantly opens the nasal passage and stops your sneezing. You may use inhaling equipment or take a large bowl with hot water. Inhale the resulting vapors for 5-10 minutes to notice the difference. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for added benefits. 

6. Eat a spicy snack -

Capsaicin, a chemical found in capsicums and chilies, stops sneezing faster than a hot compress. Eat a small snack loaded with spices. This will help control your sneezes and reduce your nasal secretions. 

7. Warm compress -

A warm compress soothes an inflamed and irritated nose. It also helps to reduce the frequency of sneezes and gradually stop them. You may use a heating pad to press your nose down. A simple way to perform this at home is to use a thick hand towel and dip it in hot water. Then gently pat the warm towel on your nose. You may also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for extra benefits. Also Read: Common Cold Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

8. Drink warm soups -

Warm foods are comforting and immediately give your soul a warm and satisfying feeling. Drinking warm soups is considered one of the healthiest Home remedies for running nose and sneezing. Eating warm soups also acts as an internal warm compress that relieves a congested nose. You may drink any soups of your choice; make sure they are piping hot. Adding chilies to your soup can open up your blocked nose and reduce sneezes. 

9. Smell onions -

Onions are a natural air cleaner that absorbs germs and toxins. Onions are also a natural antibacterial that clean the air in your surroundings. Place a bowl of sliced onions in your bedroom or the rooms you most spend your time in to eliminate any air particles that may irritate your nasal passages. Read Also: Children's Day Special: Home Remedies For Cold And Cough

10. Divert your attention -

Engaging in your daily activity with a runny nose can be an arduous task. But do it nonetheless. It will help take your mind off that dripping nose, and before you realize it, your running nose and the accompanying sneezes will be long gone. 

11. Pinch your nose -

This simple exercise can instantly stop a runny nose and almost immediately stop your sneezes. Pinch the tip of your nose as though trying to avoid smelling a bad odor. Do this when you feel the urge to sneeze or have a blocked nose. Inhale deeply after every pinch. This can relieve your irritated nose in a matter of a few minutes. 

12. Tickle your mouth - 

It is a simple exercise to control your sneezes. Use your tongue to tickle the roof of your mouth. Do this several times, including when you feel the urge to sneeze. It is observed that this motion stops your sneezing instantly. 

13. Take rest -

Most often, lying down is more than enough to help stop a runny nose. Lying in a recumbent position can open up the nasal passage and relieve your sneezes. Take comfort and enjoy a little more rest in bed.  Also Read: How Do I Treat Common Cold & Cough?

Tips for managing a runny nose or excessive sneezing

An irritated nose can be an annoyance not only to you but to anyone sitting next to you. Along with above-mentioned Home remedies for running your nose and sneezing, you can also Follow these tips to manage your nose and your surroundings:

• Lie down in a comfortable position to rest your nose. Most often, this can help relieve your runny nose and sneezes.
• Use a handkerchief every time you sneeze.
• Use soft tissues to blow your nose. It will prevent nose rashes. 
• Wash your hands before touching your food and any other object.
• Drink fluids to keep yourself hydrated. It also helps to thin down the thick mucus.
• Keep yourself busy to avoid getting irritated with an already irritated nose. 

Read Also: Is catching a cold more common in winters?

Conclusion

Sneezing and a runny nose is your body's way of protecting you from foreign matter. It is a fairly common symptom that can interfere with your daily activities. Try these natural remedies to get relief from a congested nose. These remedies will also help stop sneezing, mostly accompanied by a runny nose. Seek medical help if you observe that a prolonged duration of the blocked nasal passage accompanies your sneeze. You may need a steroidal intervention or an antihistamine medication to get relief.