Home Remedies For Sore Throat
A sore throat is quite a common occurrence, and all of us have been affected by it at some point. The painful irritation is more than enough to mess up your day, making it difficult for you to talk, swallow, or eat. There are several different causes for a sore throat and viruses are the most common of it. Several other reasons like allergies, dry air, pollution, smoking, cold, flu, etc., can also lead to it. You must also understand that not all sore throats are the same and some cases are more severe than the others. You’ll experience varied symptoms like pain while swallowing, dry and itchy throat, swollen glands around the neck and throat, hoarse voice, etc.
A sore throat can also turn out to be the first symptom of common cold and flu, which comes with a runny nose, congestion, headache, abdominal pain or vomiting. There are a lot of pills that are available over the counter that will help in treating the symptoms. But popping a pill every time you get sore throat is not entirely healthy, as it will result in your immune system get weak and can put you at the risk of infections – support studies [1] [2] . And that’s when the home remedies come in. Simple, effective and quick, the alternative measures help manage and treat the ailments with the use of herbs, spices, and essential oils – mostly things that are available within your kitchen. In the current article, we have gathered a list of effective home remedies that can help treat sore throat. From gargle remedies to ayurvedic remedies, we have it all here. Take a look.
1. Garlic (lahsun)
Known for its antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, garlic helps in treating sore throats. The compound allicin in garlic helps kill the bacteria that cause sore throat.
2. Apple cider vinegar
The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar make it an essential remedy for sore throat. Its high acidity level can kill bacteria effectively and also soothe the throat itch and pain.
3. Lemon (nimbu)
The astringent property of lemon help treats sore throat by shrinking the swollen throat tissue and create a hostile (acidic) environment for viruses and bacteria.
4. Honey (shahad)
Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, honey has been used since ages to treat sore throat. Doctors also suggest using honey if your sore throat is accompanied by a cough.
5. Cinnamon (dalacheenee)
High in antioxidants and possessing antibacterial benefits, the fragrant cinnamon is a traditional remedy for colds and flu. Highly effective, cinnamon help provide relief from throat pain quickly.
6. Turmeric (haldee)
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich spice has the strength to fight many serious diseases, infections and even wounds. Known for its antiseptic properties, turmeric is one of the best ingredients to treat sore throat.
7. Fenugreek (methi)
Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties, fenugreek helps provide relief from sore throat. Studies point out that fenugreek relieves pain and kill bacteria that cause irritation or inflammation.
8. Cloves (laung)
Cloves have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and heal a sore throat. Clove oil can also be used to reduce the irritation caused by a sore throat.
9. Ginger (adarak)
The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of ginger help in fighting a sore throat. Ginger can help kill bad bacteria and flush out the toxins from your body.
10. Peppermint (pudina)
One amongst the most popular essential oils for treating a sore throat, peppermint have antimicrobial properties against pathogens that enter the body through the mouth. It also contains menthol, a base ingredient of many sore throat medications, such as lozenges.