Sore Throat (pharyngitis) is one of the most common health ailments, especially during winter. A sore throat can make some positions uncomfortable. Apart from sore throat, some other symptoms can be throat pain or throat irritation. In some cases, the pain is severe when you try to swallow. They are usually caused by infections like common cold, flu and strep throat. While they can be quite painful, they often heal within a week. Yet fortunately, there are many fast home remedies for sore throat that are known to provide relief, however, only a few of them are supported by scientific evidence.
Causes of a Sore Throat
- Extremely dry climate
- Swollen glands
- Respiratory tract infection
- viral flu or a common cold
- Allergy or asthma
- Air pollution – smoke and dust
- acid reflux
- smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
Signs and Symptoms of Sore Throat
The signs and symptoms of sore throat vary depending on the cause. Some common problems of sore throat include:
- Pain that worsens when swallowing or talking
- Difficulty swallowing
- a scratchy sensation in the throat
- Pain, swollen glands in the neck or jaw
- swollen, red tonsils
- white patches on the tonsils
- hoarseness
- Burning in the throat
- Raw and dry voice
Apart from sore throat, there can be other symptoms-
- cough
- Runny nose and Sneezing
- fever
- chills
- Stuffy nose
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Loss of appetite
Fast Home Remedies For Sore Throat
Marshmallow Root
The marshmallow plant has been used to help with sore throat and similar conditions since the Middle Ages. Its root contains a gelatin-like substance that lubricates the throat when swallowed. Marshmallow root lozenges (gelatin-like substance) have been tested in animals and have proven to be effective and non-toxic even in very high doses.
Holy Basil (Tulsi) Infusion
Tulsi infusion is simple – just boil a handful of leaves in water, strain, and indulge in its soothing essence. This aromatic potion helps alleviate throat irritation while supporting your immune system.
Garlic
This ingredient contains a natural compound called allicin which has the ability to fight throat infections. It is also rich in antibacterial properties, so it can help cure any infection causing sore throat. To get relief from sore throat, add a clove of garlic to your soup.
Take a steam shower
You can take a steam bath so that the steam from the hot bath helps reduce inflammation and reduces the pain associated with sore throat. Moist air helps in relieving the symptoms of sore throat.
Fenugreek
This is a remedy that you can use in many forms – use fenugreek seeds, oil, or consume it in tea. This is the most effective solution to relieve sore throat. There is ample evidence that fenugreek is rich in anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antifungal properties.
Chamomile Tea
If you have a sore throat, drinking chamomile tea can provide almost instant relief. It is rich in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and astringent properties that work on the throat. Additionally, chamomile tea boosts the body’s immune system.
Sage and Echinacea
We’ve all heard stories of sage being used for cooking as well as various medicinal uses. Sage has been used to treat a number of inflammatory diseases, and controlled studies have shown that it can help relieve throat pain. Sage-echinacea spray is slightly more effective at relieving throat pain than chlorhexidine lidocaine spray. Echinacea is another herb used in traditional medicine. It is known to fight bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural health refresher that has been used in medicinal treatments for centuries. Its main ingredient is acetic acid which helps fight bacteria. Ancient physicians also prescribed apple cider vinegar and honey to treat flu symptoms, cough and sore throat. To get relief from throat pain, mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of honey in 1 cup of warm water. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties that provide relief from sore throat when consumed with warm water.
Honey
Honey is a delicious sweetener that is used with other natural ingredients to soothe a sore throat. Apart from abilities like fighting infection and providing pain relief, honey can make the treatment taste better, that’s for sure.
It should not be given to children under 1 year of age because their guts have not had a chance to get the healthy bacteria that fight germs. Also, people who avoid sugar or follow a low-carb diet can choose another solution. Drinking honey mixed with vinegar or herbs in warm water provides relief from throat pain.
Licorice root
Licorice is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine to treat many disorders. The herb has aspirin-like properties that help reduce the pain of sore throat. Obviously, not much research has been done on its ability to cure the disease. However, studies have found that licorice significantly reduces throat pain caused by removal of the windpipe.
Another study showed that gargling with licorice water before surgery reduced the risk of sore throat by half compared to gargling with sugar water. Add ground licorice root to hot water, soak for a few minutes and strain it before drinking. Licorice root has amazing properties and helps soothe a sore throat.
Lemon water
Lemon water is a refreshing drink that eases the pain of sore throat. This usually happens during a cold or flu. Lemon contains Vitamin C and antioxidants that increase the amount of saliva, helping to keep your mucous membranes moist. Adding lemon and a little honey or salt water to lukewarm water is the best way to maximize the benefits. Lemon water contains vitamin C and compounds that soothe sore throat.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a delicious spice that is high in antioxidants. It also provides antibacterial benefits. It is a remedy for cases of cold, flu and is used in medicine to reduce the pain of sore throat. Cinnamon tea is another delicious option. You can also make cinnamon almond milk which can soothe your throat. Cinnamon helps fight throat pain and throat infection caused by cold or flu.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is an effective remedy for sore throat. It is comfort food that allows you to get more fluids. You can use garlic as it contains bioactive compounds that may provide benefits when you are sick. You can prepare delicious homemade chicken soup by adding garlic to it to provide additional benefits.
Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)
The revered Indian remedy, turmeric milk or “Haldi Doodh,” blends the warmth of milk with the goodness of turmeric and a drizzle of honey. This golden elixir not only provides comfort but also actively reduces inflammation for rapid relief.
Peppermint tea
Mint tea contains anti-inflammatory compounds. Peppermint can numb your throat slightly, which provides relief from pain. You can make tea by steeping fresh mint leaves in boiling water for three to five minutes, then strain the leaves. Peppermint tea is also caffeine-free, naturally, with a sweet flavor that often doesn’t require additional sweetener. Peppermint tea is a delicious and refreshing drink that can help reduce inflammation and throat discomfort.
Take Triphala and Yashtimadhu Decoctions
Add 1 tsp Yashtimadhu (licorice root) to 2 cups of water and boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes. Drink this decoction 2-3 times a day. You can also add some honey to it.
Mix one-fourth spoon of Triphala powder in water and keep it covered overnight. Drink clean water in the morning. Triphala contains high levels of Vitamin C and clears mucus from the body. It is also an effective detoxifying agent.
Chew Betel Leaves
Betel leaves are an ancient and traditional folklore medicine that can help ease your sore throat. You can boil betel leaves and basil leaves in water until it reduces to approximately half. Filter and drink the liquid. You can add honey or salt to it as per your taste.
Chew Cloves
Place a few cloves in the back of your mouth between your teeth and cheeks. From time to time you can cut them and extract oil from them. Their numbing properties prove to be an effective home remedy for sore throat. These are also useful in case of dry cough.
Hot Sauce for Quick Pain Relief
It may seem strange to use hot chutney to get relief from an irritated throat, but this spice has actually been proven to be helpful in providing relief from sore throat. Hot sauce is made from black pepper that is high in capsaicin, which can be used to fight inflammation and provide pain relief. So, while it may cause a burning sensation when taken for the first time, adding a few drops of hot sauce to a warm glass of water and gargling with it can be the perfect solution to cure your sore throat.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is one of the most beneficial throat remedies because of its ability to stimulate immunity, provide antioxidant protection, and improve respiratory circulation. To get relief from sore throat with eucalyptus oil, use it with a diffuser. Or, use it topically by applying 1-3 drops to your neck and chest. You can also gargle with eucalyptus oil and water. If you have sensitive skin, use a carrier oil like coconut oil to dilute the eucalyptus before topical application. (Avoid use on very young children.)
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps in immune system function and increases white blood cells. Vitamin C reduces the duration of respiratory symptoms, especially in people under physical stress. As soon as sore throat symptoms appear, take 1,000 mg of vitamin C daily and eat vitamin C foods like grapes, kiwi, strawberries, oranges, kale and guava. If it hurts to eat solid foods, try smoothies instead.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is very important in overcoming sore throat; In fact, lack of sleep can be as bad for your health as eating poorly and not exercising. Aim for 9 to 10 hours of sleep until you start feeling better.
Also Read: How To Cure Likoria Home Remedies | 45 Best Likoria Home Remedies
Herbal Decoctions For Sore Throat
Ingredients: To make this effective Kadha home remedy,
you need 2 cups of water,
1 inch of peeled ginger,
4-5 cloves,
5-6 black pepper,
5-6 fresh basil leaves,
½ tsp honey and
2 inch cinnamon stick.
You can add mulethi (lecorice) if it is available.
Steps to make Kadha: To begin with, take water in a deep saucepan and boil it.
In the meantime, crush ginger, cloves, black pepper and cinnamon in a mortar and pestle.
Once the water is boiled, add all the crushed ingredients along with basil leaves to the saucepan. Cook on medium heat for about 20 minutes or till the decoction is reduced to half.
Strain it in glass and add honey.
Your homemade kadha is ready.
Benefits of Kadha: Kadha has anti-viral properties and is effective against cough and cold too. The presence of basil makes it an effective healing drink that reduces mucus in the body. It is also known for increasing immunity and fights against infections. It also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which soothes the throat and prevents coughing.
7 Types of Gargles
- Salt water – Dissolve half a teaspoon of rock salt in warm water and gargles. This will help reduce the swelling in your throat. This will also help loosen the mucus and expel it.
- Rosemary leaves – These can also be used in the form of a decoction which you can gargle with.
- Cardamom Powder – Dissolve the powder in water, filter it and gargle.
- Fenugreek seeds – Boil them in water, filter and gargle.
- Turmeric Water – Turmeric is an excellent antioxidant. Mix half teaspoon turmeric powder and half teaspoon salt in hot water. Gargle every 2 hours.
- Basil water – You can boil water with basil leaves (Tulsi). You can filter this mixture and drink it or gargle with it.
- Tankana Bhasma – It is made from borax. You can dissolve some Tankana Bhasma powder in water, and gargle once or twice a day.
Generally speaking, you can gargle these solutions every 2 hours for about 30 seconds to help relieve your discomfort.
What to avoid when you have Sore Throat?
- Dairy – Dairy products cause excess mucus in some people. So, if you find that it affects you adversely, stay away from dairy until your symptoms subside.
- Fried food and sweets – Tasty for the tongue but harmful for the throat, these foods are difficult to digest. They further irritate your throat and make your symptoms worse.
- Dry and hard foods – Dry toast and raw vegetables can irritate the throat and make your sore throat worse.
- Smoking – When you consume tobacco, the tar that accumulates gets stuck in the throat, causing further irritation.
Home Remedies for Sore Throat for Kids
The treatment of sore throat in infants and children is quite different. Some home remedies for sore throat for kids are as follows-
- Add moisture to the air so that your children can get relief from sore throat.
- Keep your child hydrated by giving him healthy fluids.
- Ask your child to wash hands frequently.
- Don’t give them spicy or acidic foods.
- Keep them away from chemical fumes or smoke.
FAQ For Sore Throat Home Remedy
Q1 What is the fastest way to cure a sore throat?
Ans: Gargle with warm salt water or use ice chips. Cold liquids or popsicles can numb the pain. Throat sprays and over-the-counter pain relievers can help, too. Use a humidifier or vaporizer, especially when sleeping, to keep air from getting too dry.
Q2 What drink helps a sore throat fast?
Ans: Drink water, tea (herbal or decaf), broth, soup, and non-caffeinated sports drinks e.g. Gatorade. Hot tea with lemon and honey can help. Gargle with warm salt-water. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of regular table salt in 8 ounces (240 ml) of warm water, gargle for a few seconds, spit it out, then repeat a few times.
Q3 How long do sore throats last?
Ans: Sore throat caused by viral infections usually lasts four to five days. During this time, treatments to reduce pain may be helpful. Several therapies can help to relieve throat pain. Pain medication — Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide fast and effective relief of sore throat pain.
Q4 Is honey good for a sore throat?
Ans: The short answer is yes, honey can bring relief for your sore throat. Simply mix two tablespoons of honey with a warm glass of water or tea, and drink as needed.
Q5 What not to drink with a sore throat?
Ans: Alcohol is both acidic and drying, which can irritate a sore throat. While you recover from a sore throat, it’s best to avoid alcoholic beverages and instead stick to water and tea.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article fast home remedies for sore throat is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. Due to unique individual needs, the reader should consult his or her physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
