sore throat is an everyday problem that may occur at any time and make you uncomfortable and uneasy. Sore throat is usually a result of a viral infection, bacterial infection, allergy or environmental factors, and may manifest in mild irritation or severe throat pain on swallowing. Though, there are a number of drugs sold over the counter that can help to ease the symptoms, many individuals seek milder treatments that can be found in their kitchens and are effective for the human body.
Using home remedies is not only a much more effective way of maintaining one’s health but also a perfect chance to use organic products for healing. These remedies include warm liquids that help soothe sore throat, throat lozenges which contain anti-inflammatory natural herbs. Many of them are supported by the traditional practices and the most up to date findings in science and therefore represent some of the best and quickest solutions.
No matter the cause whether it is cold, allergy or dry air, it is important to know these home remedies will enable you to be in control of your health. In this blog, I will be sharing with you ten wonderful home remedies that can assist you in getting the relief you need for sore throat infection to enable you to go about your business as usual.
Here are the 10 Home Remedies for Quick Relief from Sore Throat Infection
1. Saltwater Gargle
How it Works: This is a natural remedy that has been used for many years that basically involves rinsing the throat with warm salt solution, which reduces swelling and pain of affected tissues by pulling out excess fluid. It is also good at combating bacteria due to its antimicrobial nature.
How to Use:
- You must dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water every morning.
- Swish for about 30 seconds and then expectorate.
- To get the best results, do this 2 to 3 in a day.
Note: It is also important not to swallow the saltwater since the intake of a lot of salt is dangerous because it leads to one’s dehydration.
2. Honey and Warm Water
How it Works: Honey is known to have antimicrobial properties and the thick consistency of the product help soothes the throat lining. It also offers a calming property that might help reduce coughing and enhance throat feel.
How to Use:
- Honey can be taken directly with warm water or diluted with a cup of warm herbal tea as 1 to 2 tablespoons.
- Take this mixture 2-3 times a day. One can also consume honey with a spoon, you just take a spoonful of the product and consume it.
Note: Honey should not be administered to children below one year of age because of botulism.
3. Ginger Tea
How it Works: Ginger is very effective in addressing inflammation in the throat and thus relieves pain that is associated with swollen throat. It also strengthens the immune system and thus offers more protection against diseases.
How to Use:
- Peel and cut ginger into thin strips, then put the ginger into 2 cups of water and boil for 10 minutes.
- Pour the tea into a cup and filter out the herbs before adding honey or lemon for taste and other health boosting properties.
- Consume this tea 2-3 cups in a day.
Note: For instance, ginger is very strong for those with sensitive stomachs; you should therefore take it in small portions at first.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
How it Works: Bacterial and viral infections causing the throat infection can easily be combated by taking apple cider vinegar (ACV) which has antimicrobial properties. It also aids in the correction of the ph level in the throat.
How to Use:
- Dilute one tablespoon of ACV in one glass of warm water.
- Rinse with the solution or you may take it internally.
- Use this remedy once or twice every day.
Note: It is always advisable to dilute Apple Cidar Vinegar because the plain vinegar is harsh on the throat and it weakens the teeth enamel.
5. Lemon Water
How it Works: Vitamin C found in lemons helps to strengthen the immune system of the body. Lemon juice should also be effective in dissolving mucus and so, can offer a level of relief to sore throats.
How to Use:
- Take out the juice of half a lemon and add it to warm water in a glass.
- This mixture should be taken several times a day to gain all the benefits.
Note: Drinking honey and lemon water is beneficial and adding honey to lemon water can be helpful when it comes to increasing its relaxing impact and taste.
6. Herbal Tea with Licorice Root
How it Works: Licorice root has traditional uses as a demulcent for the throat and an anti-inflammatory agent. Interestingly, it may also help lessen coughing and aid in relieving irritation.
How to Use:
- Licorice root: Boil in water for 10 to 15 minutes 1 to 2 teaspoons of the dried root.
- Squeeze and drink this tea 2 to 3 times a day.
Note: Licorice root is to be avoided by pregnant women and people suffering from high blood pressure.
7. Warm Compress
How it Works: Circulation of blood to the neck area can be enhanced, relaxation achieved and pain and discomfort reduced when the neck is exposed to warmth.
How to Use:
- Wash a cloth with warm water and ring it out before draping it around your neck.
- You should leave the compress on for about 15-20 minutes. To be said several times a day when necessary.
Note: Make sure the compress is warm not hot to prevent burns.
8. Humidifier
How it Works: A humidifier helps put moisture back into the air which can help reduce the dryness that causes irritation to the throat especially during winter or in dry regions. Maintaining humidity also benefits the throat since the moist tissues can gain relief.
How to Use:
- Add a humidifier to your bedroom or any frequently used room and operate it at night or during the day.
- The benefits can be maximized if the humidity is maintained at 30-50 percent humidity levels.
Note: It is important that you clean your humidifier often so as not to allow the growth of mold and bacteria.
9. Stay Hydrated
How it Works: Drinking water is always advised and more so when one is experiencing a sore throat because water helps in every part of the body. Drinking fluids washes the throat and minimizes the chances of further inflammation and quickens healing.
How to Use:
- Take enough water and other non caffeinated fluids such as water, herbal teas, broths etc.
- To make sure you are sufficiently hydrated, drink not less than, 8 glasses of water a day and more if you have fever or sweating.
Note: Warm to hot drinks are very helpful in relieving the pain of a sore throat while the caffeinated products have diuretic effects.
10. Rest Your Voice
How it Works: As with any muscle, the vocal cords need a rest to repair the physical damage done by strain and vocal abuse. However, excessive vocalization will aggravate the inflammation and worsen the discomfort.
How to Use:
- Do not speak, mumble or shout.
- In case of communication, it is advisable to write down some notes or even use some kinds of gestures.
- These breaks should ideally be for your voice throughout the day.
Note: If you have to speak try to do it in a low pitch so as to avoid straining yourself much.
Conclusion
This is especially the case in sore throats which while not very severe can be rather uncomfortable, but the ten home remedies listed below will help. Eating these foods and using these remedies as part of your daily diet can assist you in controlling the symptoms and recovering. If your sore throat lasts more than a week, is very bad or is accompanied by a high temperature, rash or difficulty in swallowing, you should consult a doctor. Complementary medicine can be effective along with regular medical care but it should not replace it when the severe signs occur.
