Home Remedies for a Sore Throat

Dr. Colin Knight Home Remedies for a Sore Throat

Sore throats can have various causes, from the common cold to a bacterial infection. They are often accompanied by a fever, difficulty swallowing, and pain in the neck and throat. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they can lead to more serious complications like bronchitis or pneumonia. Luckily, various home remedies for sore throats can help alleviate symptoms and make the patient feel better.

 

  1. Honey

Honey is one of nature’s most effective natural remedies for a sore throat. It has been used for centuries to treat illnesses ranging from colds and coughs to wounds. Honey works so well because it contains natural compounds which help kill dangerous bacteria (especially Streptococcus) in the body. Some infections will require a stronger antibiotic, so patients should consult a doctor if symptoms persist, but honey might help alleviate discomfort in the meantime.

 

  1. Salt Water

Saltwater is another excellent remedy for sore throats. This treatment involves gargling salt water mixed with a small amount of lemon juice every few hours. Adding orange juice would also work. Lemon juice is preferred since it has higher acidity levels than oranges. Patients should only drink salt water until the taste becomes too intense (roughly 20 minutes). Then they should rinse out their mouth with warm water. Doing this will keep bacteria from reentering their system.

 

  1. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea made with fresh chamomile flowers is another safe and easy way to relieve a sore throat. Mix 1 cup of boiling water with 2 cups of brewed chamomile tea leaves to make this tea. Let this mixture steep for 10 minutes before serving. Some people enjoy adding honey as a sweetener. Many studies have shown that drinking herbs such as chamomile may reduce inflammation and allow airways to open up.

 

  1. Peppermint

To take advantage of peppermint’s anti-inflammatory properties, try sipping on a minty beverage during meals. For example, the patient could make an iced or hot peppermint teapot to enjoy throughout the day. Since peppermint is also known as menthol, many candies like gumballs contain this ingredient. Because of its cooling effect, peppermint also relieves a sore throat from the inside out, making it soothing and relaxing. In addition, eating raw garlic cloves also offers similar relief from sore throats.

 

In conclusion, these simple remedies offer an inexpensive alternative to expensive prescription drugs. If nothing else, they sure do taste good!