The irritation, itchiness, and pain, seen when people have sore throat, are often a result of a cold or a flu. It may rob you of proper sleep, any pleasure you find in food and drink, while also make you hoarse. While it usually does not call for a visit to the doctor, it doesn’t let you work, eat, drink and sleep in peace.
Thankfully, there are a host of home remedies for sore throat to address the problem. You can judge which of the following is the best one for you.
Honey
One of the most effective ways to address a sore throat is honey. Due to its antibacterial properties, it heals wounds and reduces inflammation. You can have it either on its own or with tea. Honey can also suppress any cough that accompanies the bad throat. However, it should not be given to children under the age of one.
Warm chicken soup or other warm drinks can also help tackle sore throats, the warmth also soothing the back of the throat, thereby reducing coughs.
Gargle Away
You can gargle with warm salt water, which may kill bacteria that cause your sore throat. However, you need to do this several times a day to get relief. Half a teaspoon of salt in a warm glass of water will do the job. Adding baking soda could also help, eliminating bacteria and preventing the growth of yeast and other fungi.
However, gargling with salt water may not be suitable for children younger than five.
Lemon Juice and Teas
Lemon can help break down mucus and can provide relief from sore throat. Moreover, lemons are full of Vitamin C, which can help your immune system fight the infection. You can drink a glass of warm water with one teaspoon of lemon juice in it.
Clove tea and green tea, being endowed with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, can help you to fight infection. Peppermint tea can also numb your throat, thus reducing the pain.
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties. A natural lubricant, chamomile tea may ease your ability to speak.
Peppermint
The methanol in peppermint can help thin mucus. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties may help you to recover faster. Diluted peppermint oil sprays are one of the most effective home remedies for sore throat.
Herbal Cures
Another helpful home remedy is fenugreek. It can help in killing bacteria that cause irritation.
Studies have shown that garlic supplements, taken on a regular basis, can help prevent fight the common cold virus. Sucking on a garlic can also soothe your sore throat, though you may have to wash your mouth later to get rid of the strong smell.
Drinking a tea of dried marshmallow root in a glass of boiling water two or three times a day can alleviate your sore throat. Marshmallow root has a mucus-like substance that can soothe a sore throat. However, diabetic patients should consult a doctor before using this option.
Lozenges or hard candy are also home remedies for sore throat. But don’t give them to children aged five and younger, as there can be a choking risk.
Licorice root has a long history of being used to address sore throats. The licorice plant is found largely around the Mediterranean and in western Asia. Its root is 50 times sweeter than sugar and has several medicinal properties. Boil a cup of water and steep one licorice root in it for five minutes for the best results. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid licorice.
Other Options
Cleaning your humidifier on a regular basis can prevent the growth of the mold or bacteria that can cause sore throat. You can sit for several minutes in a steamy bathroom, too.
Avoid cigarette smoke and cleaning products that irritate the throat. Avoid alcohol when you have a sore throat because it can cause dehydration.
Of course, if none of these options work, do consult a doctor.
For more nifty home solutions on SEEMA, check out Handy Home Remedies for Heartburn
