Natural remedies for sore throats
Sore throats tend to be more prevalent in winter, this is partly due to people going from centrally heated environments and then moving outside into the freezing cold. There are many over the counter medicines for sore throats, but they can often cause sleepiness and may be loaded with sugar. Here are some natural remedies which help to soothe sore throats.
Licorice root is an old remedy to help treat sore throats.A 2009 study showed that it also effective for soothing coughs and sore throats after surgery.
Slippery elm aids sore throats when it is mixed with boiled water. Slippery elm lozenges also help to ease sore throats.
Honey has been used for centuries to cure sore throats. Manuka honey is particularly effective for this. The higher the strength of Manuka honey, the more antibacterial action it contains. You can also suck on Manuka honey lozenges to soothe your throat.
Gargling salt water is very beneficial for sore throats. Studies from The University of Connecticut have found that gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and break down secretions. It’s also known to help kill bacteria in the throat.A salt water solution consisting of 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water can help reduce swelling and keep the throat clean. This should be done every three hours or so.
Chamomile tea is naturally soothing, and is one of the oldest herbs to be used medicinally for conditions like sore throats. It’s often used for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties. Drinking chamomile tea can help to boost the immune system, which enables your body to ward off the infection that caused the sore throat.
Echinacea and Golden seal are great immune boosters. Taking them when you have a sore throat will speed up your recovery.
Garlic and Cayenne pepper have excellent antibacterial properties, while also adding flavour to your food.
Apple Cider Vinegar is effective for killing the bad bacteria which causes sore throats due to its high levels of acidity. You can add a tablespoon of it and one tablespoon of honey to a cup of warm water as a refreshing drink.
Cloves contain eugenol which is a natural pain killer and contains anti-bacterial agents which help to ease sore throats.
Ginger is a well- known remedy to ease sore throats. It contains numerous anti-bacterial properties and is also an expectorant so it can help to expel mucus from your throat. It acts as an anti-inflammatory herb and wards off bad bacteria.
Sage is very beneficial for sore throats. It is an astringent which means it helps the body’s tissues to contract and this reduces swelling. The back of the throat becomes swollen when you are sick so sage will help to alleviate this.The phenolic acids in sage are also known to fight and kill off the bad bacteria that cause sore throats. Gargling with sage is the most effective way for this remedy to work.
Lemons contains (citrus acid) which helps to break up the mucus that causes sore throat and also helps to soothe your throat from the pain and inflammation.They are rich in vitamin C and anti-oxidants which helps to boost your immune system. They are a natural antiseptic which helps to kill the bacteria or viruses in the throat. Lemons are rich in several essential vitamins and nutrients. Lemon juice increases salivation and helps to moisten or lubricate an irritated throat.
You can help to reduce your risk of contracting sore throats by avoiding other people with the infection, washing your hands frequently and applying antiseptic gel after travelling on public transport. You can also minimize your risk of developing a sore throat by avoiding smoky environments.
