Sore throats are an unfortunately common occurrence during cold and flu season. While some types of sore throats (like strep) require antibiotic treatment, most viral infections can be effectively treated with natural remedies.
Drinking fluids, particularly warm broth or hot tea, can soothe sore throat pain and keep your throat moist. Ice pops and other cold liquids may also provide temporary numbing sensations.
Lemon Water
Lemon water is an effective natural remedy for a sore throat, as it helps to alleviate pain and strengthen the immune system. Packed full of vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon water encourages saliva production which keeps mucous membranes moistened while decreasing inflammation.
Lemon water also has a soothing and antiseptic effect. The citric acid in lemon water reduces mucus and fights infection.
Lemon water has another positive benefit; it aids in detoxification by diluting toxins in the blood and supporting kidney function. It’s an ideal summer detox beverage since you can drink it chilled to stay cool.
Lemon water can help soothe a sore throat by mixing it with hot water or adding it to your tea. Gargling with salt water also works effectively as it reduces swelling of the throat tissue and kills unwanted bacteria.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an effective natural remedy for a sore throat. It contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can help fight infection.
Fruit and vegetables are excellent sources of antioxidants, which have numerous health benefits. Antioxidants help combat inflammation and oxidative stress that may lead to heart disease, cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Drinking hot tea with cinnamon can help soothe a sore throat naturally. For an extra kick of flavor, add some turmeric for extra potency.
One effective home remedy for sore throat and cough is honey. It contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that can provide temporary comfort to those suffering from sore throat or coughing.
Alternatively, you can make a drink by mixing ginger and cinnamon. This will help to quickly alleviate your sore throat.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm bark (uhlum rubra) has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to cure many illnesses. The dried and powdered inner bark of this herb is sold in many forms as an herbal cure for coughs, sore throats, and other digestive problems.
Slippery elm is considered a demulcent, or remedy that helps restore mucous layers on irritated tissues. Furthermore, it’s a prebiotic; that means it feeds beneficial bacteria in your gut and promotes overall wellbeing.
Research has suggested that ginger may reduce inflammation and irritation in people with inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, possibly even acting as an antioxidant. However, further testing is necessary to confirm these benefits.
The bark of slippery elm can be found in a variety of supplements, so it’s best to take them with caution and under the supervision of your doctor. Furthermore, taking slippery elm may interfere with other drugs’ absorption; thus, taking it at least two hours after any oral medications you may be taking is recommended.
Honey
Honey can provide comfort during a sore throat by soothing the pain, stimulating taste buds and helping with other flu or cold symptoms.
Additionally, drinking fluids that soothe sore throats such as broth, caffeine-free tea or warm water with honey are beneficial.
A sore throat can make it difficult to speak, swallow or breathe. Getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated and eating a nutritious diet are all effective remedies for this issue.
According to a 2007 study, honey may help soothe sore throats. Participants found that children who took honey before bedtime slept better and experienced less coughing.