Sore throats, while very common, can be painful and uncomfortable. The cause is simple: irritation from a cold or flu, over-exertion, tonsillitis or the air is too dry. Before you go running to a doctor, try these simple but effective natural home remedies for sore throat, however, that may make you feel better.
1. Saltwater gargle
One of the best ways to sore throat treatment is gargling with salt water. A salt water solution consisting of a half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water can help reduce swelling and keep the throat clean. It’s also known to help kill bacteria in the throat. Gargle at least once each hour with 1 tsp (5 g) of salt dissolved in 8 fl oz (240 mL) of warm water, four times a day for best results.
2. Honey
Honey has long been used as a sore throat remedy. Honey has antibacterial properties, which can fight the infection and speed up the healing process. Simple add one to two tablespoons of honey to one cup of hot water and drink it several times a day. Read more health benefits of honey.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is surprisingly good and feels like a warm hug for your throat. This brown liquid is thought to have antibacterial properties that can help fight the infection causing sore throats. Add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one teaspoon each of lemon juice and honey to a cup of warm water and drink it slowly. Do this two or three times a day. You can also make a gargle solution with apple cider vinegar, just mix 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup warm water and gargle every hour or so.
4. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm was once considered a conventional treatment for sore throats in North America. Slippery elm contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that coats the throat, eases soreness and reduces irritation. To use, pour boiling water over powdered bark, stir, and drink. If the herb is not available, you can also buy slippery elm in capsule form from any drug store.
5. Licorice Root
Licorice root (also known as “sweet root”) has a long history of use as an herbal remedy for sore throat. Licorice root is known to soothe and coat sore throats, and helps eliminate phlegm and mucous in the nose, throat and lungs. It can be used in an herbal tea: pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of dried licorice root. Drink as needed up to three times daily. Licorice should not be used in large amounts, as it can lead to high blood pressure, salt and water retention, low potassium levels. Don’t give licorice tea to infants, toddlers or pregnant women.
6: Mix cloves, cinnamon, ginger and honey in boiling water, according to this video:
Tips:
Don’t scream or sing.
Take vitamin C three times a day.
Nix the colas and scratchy foods, such as chips and pretzels.
If your sore throat persists or is accompanied by a high fever, feel free to gargle or try the other remedies here, but then see your doctor as soon as you can.
