An uncomfortable sore throat can be extremely unpleasant and even painful, but natural remedies exist that can ease its pain – you might just find one hiding in your pantry or fridge!
Lozenges may help stimulate saliva production and soothe throat discomfort. Saltwater gargles (one teaspoon of salt mixed into 8 ounces of warm water) may reduce swelling while killing bacteria, offering another possible solution to aiding recovery.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil contains menthol to soothe throat pain and thin mucus production, acting as an antibacterial and antiviral agent while inhaling its scent or using one drop on tissue can ease symptoms quickly and efficiently.
Ginger root boasts natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to relieve throat discomfort. You can add it to a cup of warm tea or snack on ginger candy to alleviate pain relief. Sage also boasts antibacterial properties which soothe sore throats – try breathing in its scent or sipping some herbal sage tea to find relief for sore throats.
Lemon water can help soothe sore throats by increasing saliva production and providing vitamins C and other compounds that decrease inflammation, oxidative stress and other factors contributing to soreness in the throat.
If your sore throat is caused by a viral infection, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) may provide temporary relief; however if bacterial infections arise antibiotics will likely be necessary. It’s wise to speak to your physician first if your child experiences symptoms; they can help determine any underlying health conditions that might be contributing and provide any necessary treatments or remedies.
Herbal Tea
Tea can help soothe sore throats and aid healing, especially when combined with water-rich foods like ginger, turmeric, peppermint and Echinacea. Staying hydrated when sick is especially crucial as your body loses fluid through sneezing, coughing and postnasal drip. Tea offers warmth as well as fluids containing medicinal ingredients such as ginger, turmeric peppermint and Echinacea that offer added support and warmth for healing.
Try adding honey for added soothing properties and flavor! A caffeine-free herbal tea blend may also help relieve symptoms such as Traditional Medicinals Organic Throat Coat contains slippery elm, licorice root and marshmallow root which contain soothing herbs to reduce inflammation and soothe sore throat pain. Plus, adding some sweetener such as honey can provide additional comforting benefits!
Chamomile herbal tea can provide another caffeine-free remedy to ease sore throat discomfort, with its anti-inflammatory properties proven to decrease throat and mouth swelling, plus its rich source of antioxidants that fight free radicals while supporting a healthy immune system.
Sage and echinacea combined can also help soothe throat discomfort, as evidenced by research (8). For maximum soothing, combine this herb combination in warm water with some honey for extra soothing comfort.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds (also called methi seeds) possess anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help relieve sore throats, thin mucus and aid digestion. You can consume the seeds directly or make a cup of fenugreek tea to quickly relieve your throat discomfort; adding honey if it becomes too bitter can help the process along more quickly. Drink this tea three times each day until your symptoms subside.
Gargling with saltwater or baking soda and water is said to help alleviate sore throat symptoms, according to the National Institutes of Health. Salt helps reduce swelling and kill bacteria which could be causing your sore throat discomfort.
Turmeric powder, ginger, garlic, eucalyptus oil and licorice root can also help relieve sore throat symptoms naturally. All these herbs and spices have antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties which may help ease them. Always consult with a healthcare provider prior to trying any herbal remedies, particularly if taking medications like antibiotics or having specific health conditions.
Garlic contains allicin, an active ingredient known to fight infection. When combined with saliva production by your body, garlic can help soothe sore throats by keeping it moist, reports Medical News Today. Eucalyptus oil boasts antiseptic and astringent properties to further ease an inflamed throat; use five to ten drops in a diffuser at home for effective sore throat relief.
Echinacea
Echinacea is more than just an attractive purple flower; this herb stimulates immune system responses to fight infections that lead to sore throats. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties soothe soreness while its anti-swelling capabilities alleviate swelling. Available as tinctures, tablets or liquid solutions; always read labels carefully when taking herbal medications as per dosage recommendations and make sure that a balanced diet and adequate rest complement these therapies for maximum immune support.
Licorice root can also provide relief for sore throats; its natural expectorant action helps loosen and expel mucus from your throat while soothing its discomfort. Plus, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties speed recovery from viral infections such as sore throats.
Lemon essential oil contains vitamin C, an effective antioxidant which fights free radicals that damage cells and slow healing. Furthermore, it boasts antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Lemon essential oil can also be mixed with water and honey to create a soothing drink or inhaled via diffuser, while Eucalyptus oil can also be applied topically on chest and throat for pain relief.
