10 Effective Home Remedies to Relieve Sore Throat

What Causes a Sore Throat?

A sore throat is a painful and irritating condition in the throat that occurs due to multiple reasons. A sore throat due to a viral or bacterial infection in the pharynx, such as the common cold or flu, is termed pharyngitis. At the same time, a sore throat is called laryngitis due to swelling in the larynx. This condition also causes hoarseness in the voice. It is also possible to have a sore throat caused by a viral infection in the tonsils termed tonsillitis. It can also be due to respiratory illnesses such as asthma and Bronchitis. Sometimes severe acidity or Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also be a reason for sore throat. 

A sore throat is accompanied by pain or discomfort when swallowing, a scratchy or raw feeling in the throat, redness, and swelling. In some cases, a sore throat can also cause swollen lymph nodes, headache, and fever.

Mostly, sore throat can be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. However, severe sore throat due to chronic conditions needs proper diagnosis and medical attention.

Here are a few effective home remedies that can relieve sore throat due to infections and provide relief in chronic illnesses:

1. Saltwater

Gargling with warm salt water can assist with relieving an irritated throat. It is known for killing microbes in the throat. Take a half-teaspoon of salt in a full glass of warm water. Gargle it many times a day to clear throat infection.

Some also use baking powder mixed in water for gargling. While baking powder has antiseptic properties, it is not recommended to use it directly on the throat as it may irritate delicate tissues and cause more harm than good to your throat.

2. Honey

Honey exhibits natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and helps soothe and coat the throat, reducing the sensation of pain and discomfort. Honey blended in tea or consumed as such is a typical sore throat remedy. You can also mix honey with lemon juice for additional relief.

3. Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, a natural compound with antibacterial properties that can help fight off the bacteria that cause sore throat. It also exhibits antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce throat pain and discomfort. 

You can add garlic to soups or teas or chew raw garlic cloves. You can also mix crushed garlic with honey or lemon juice to relieve sore throat. It’s important to note that while garlic is generally considered safe, consuming large amounts of raw garlic can cause digestive issues for some people.

4. Marshmallow roots

The common name of marshmallows is Khatmi or Gulkhairo. The roots of this medicinal plant contain a slimy, thick, sticky substance that can help soothe and coat the throat, reducing the sensation of pain and discomfort.

You can have it in tea a few times daily to alleviate throat pain. Individuals with diabetes should consult a doctor before taking marshmallow root as it can drop in glucose levels.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint, commonly known as mint or pudina, contains a compound called menthol that helps soothe the throat. The pudina benefits extend beyond throat relief; it also exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can lessen pain and uneasiness caused by a sore throat.

Brew a cup of peppermint tea by steeping dried peppermint leaves in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. You can also use peppermint essential oil in steam. Add a few drops of this oil to the facial steamer or a bowl of steaming water and breathe in the steam. Drink this tea to help soothe and relieve pain in the throat.

6. Methi

Methi or fenugreek exhibits anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties due to which it has been traditionally used as a remedy for sore throat and other throat conditions. 

You can have it as a tea by boiling 1-2 tsp of methi seeds in a cup of water for 10-15 minutes. Strain the seeds and drink the tea while it’s still warm. You can add honey or lemon juice to boost the taste. Repeat this 2-3 times a day until your sore throat improves. You can also gargle with methi seed tea and salt for additional relief. 

7. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) exhibits antibacterial and antiviral properties. Apart from weight loss, you can also use it to treat sore throat. To use ACV for sore throat:

• Mix 1-2 tsp in a cup of warm water.
• Gargle with the mixture for 30 seconds and repeat this 2-3 times daily. You can also have apple cider vinegar in warm water with honey.
• Have this drink 2-3 times a day.

It is important to note that undiluted apple cider vinegar can irritate the throat and cause damage to tooth enamel, so it is always recommended to dilute it with water before using it. Know other benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar for health.

8. Mulethi

Mulethi or liquorice root helps to clear sputum and reduce throat swelling. You can add dried mulethi to your tea or chew it to engulf its extract. You can also mix 1 tsp of mulethi powder in a cup of warm water. Gargle with the mixture for 30 seconds and repeat this 2-3 times daily.

9. Haldi

Haldi or turmeric is a natural remedy for sore throat due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Here is how you can use turmeric for a sore throat:

• Turmeric tea: Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a cup of boiling water, add honey and lemon to taste and drink as tea.
• Turmeric milk: Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and have it before bed.
• Turmeric gargle: Mix 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder in a glass of warm water and use it as a gargle several times a day.

10. Suck on Medicated candies

Medicated candies or Lozenges are small candies that dissolve in the mouth and treat sore throat, cough, and other respiratory symptoms. They contain a combination of active ingredients such as menthol, eucalyptus, and sometimes medications such as pain relievers or cough suppressants.

Lozenges provide a burst of moisture to the throat and soothe the irritated tissue. As the tablet dissolves, it releases the active ingredients that can relieve symptoms.

It is important to read dosage instructions and not exceed the recommended dose. Children should not be given lozenges if they are younger than 4 years, and it is best to consult a doctor before using them if you are pregnant, have a chronic health condition, or are taking medication. 

It’s important to consider that not all sore throats require medical attention. In most cases, the sore throat resolves within a week or two. However, if the painful throat symptoms are caused by asthma or allergies, then proper diagnosis and treatments are required.

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Disclaimer: The information given in this article is true to our best knowledge. Still, we recommend you consult your doctor first before taking any medication or treatment for sore throat mentioned in this article.