Sore throats can occur at a moment's notice, especially if you have allergies or sinus problems. Luckily, natural remedies can alleviate soreness and inflammation in the throat, and you may have all the ingredients in your kitchen already! Here is a look at five of these home treatments that will have you feeling better in no time.
Sea Salt and Warm Water
Gargling with a mixture of sea salt and warm water hourly throughout the day can provide some sore throat relief. However, you can use it more often if you find this is not frequent enough. Sea salt will help to reduce the inflammation by drawing out moisture, and it also relieves the soreness in the throat. To try this remedy, add one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm to hot water and allow it to dissolve completely before gargling.
Raw Honey
Eating a teaspoonful of raw honey is another possibility for soothing a sore throat. However, if you find it uncomfortable to swallow the thick substance, you can dilute it with to six to eight ounces of warm water or tea, and drink the mixture three to four times a day. Raw honey not only brings relief from the inflammation and soreness, but it also provides valuable nutrients necessary for human health. Children under two years of age should avoid raw honey according to some experts, as they could have an allergic reaction.
Plain Water
A lack of moisture can cause a sore throat, and sometimes a simple glass of water is enough to keep the throat's mucus membranes moist. Other liquids such as tea and fruit juice can also soothe your throat and relieve inflammation.
Marshmallow Root Tea
Marshmallow root coats the throat with a mucus-like substance, and this can soothe irritation and soreness. Place one tablespoon of chopped, dried marshmallow root in eight ounces of boiling water and allow it to steep for about ten minutes. This tea can be consumed as needed.
Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Juice and Water
Drink a mixture of water and fresh-squeezed lemon juice several times throughout your day to alleviate the swelling and soreness in your throat. To makes things easier, try mixing an entire pitcher first thing in the morning for faster access. To prepare, simply mix half a cup of fresh-squeezed lemon juice in a quart of water. Lemon juice creates an acidic environment that deters the growth of bacteria and viruses that may cause a soreness and contains zinc, vitamin C, and other nutrients that help to heal the throat.
