A sore throat is known as itchiness, irritation, and pain of the throat. Pain is the primary symptom associated with a sore throat. This pain may get worse when you try to drink or swallow.
To ease this pain, you need to know what is causing a sore throat: acid reflux, dry air, smoking, bacterial infections, or viral infections like the common cold or flu. All these reasons can lead to a sore throat.
When a bacterial infection occurs in your body, the pain is more focused on the throat and the soreness tends to be severe. According to the ent specialist in Karachi, you may also experience intense pain while swallowing along with a high fever.
A sore throat is not a serious condition to pay a visit to the doctor. It is still painful and irritating and can prevent you from getting good sleep. However, the news is this you can try home remedies to soothe the irritation and pain.
Home Remedies for Sore Throat
Here is the list of some natural and effective home remedies that may help you to ease sore throat symptoms.
1. Gargling with Salt Water
Gargling with warm saltwater can play an important role in soothing a sore throat and breaking down secretions. It can also kill harmful bacteria in the throat.
You can make a saltwater solution by adding a half-teaspoon of salt to a full glass of a warm water. Gargling this solution will help in reducing swelling and keeping the throat clean. You need to gargle this every three hours or so.
2. Honey
Honey is a common and the most effective remedy for a sore throat. You can mix it in tea and take it on its own. A study concluded that honey was more effective than the common cough suppressants to treat taming nighttime coughs.
Some other studies indicate that honey is also an effective wound healer, which means that it possesses the properties to speed up the healing of sore throats.
3. Marshmallow Root
Since ancient times, people are using extracts from the marshmallow plant to treat sore throats and other symptoms associated with it. Its roots contain a gelatin-like substance known as mucilage that lubricates and coats the throat when someone swallows it.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint is largely known for its capacity to freshen breath. Diluted sprays of peppermint may also give you relief from a sore throat. It contains menthol, which is essential to thin mucus and calm coughs and sore throats. In addition, peppermint also possesses antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may improve healing.
Do not use essential oils without mixing them with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, softened coconut oil, and olive oil.
5. Fenugreek
Fenugreek possesses many health benefits. Additionally, you can also use it in several forms. You can use the topical oil, eat fenugreek seeds, or drink fenugreek tea. Fenugreek tea is considered a natural remedy for a sore throat.
Several pieces of research indicate the healing powers of fenugreek. It can lower pain and kill bacteria that cause inflammation and irritation. In addition, it is also an antifungal. However, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, pregnant women need to avoid fenugreek.
6. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea naturally possesses soothing properties. People are using it since ancient times for medical purposes such as soothing sore throats. It is often used for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties.
A review of some studies shows that inhaling chamomile steam can play an important role in relieving symptoms of a cold. Consumption of chamomile tea can also offer the same benefit. In addition, it can also stimulate your immune system to help your body fight off infection.
7. Baking Soda Gargle
Gargling saltwater is commonly used; however, gargling baking soda mixed with saltwater may also relieve a sore throat. Gargling the solution of baking soda and saltwater can kill bacteria and prevent the growth of fungi and yeast.
According to the National Cancer Institute, one cup of warm water, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt can be a good mixture. Rinsing this mixture every three hours will help you effectively reduce the symptoms associated with a sore throat.
8. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm also has a mucus-like substance in it. When you mix it with water, it makes a slick gel that soothes and coats the throat. For use, pour some warm water over powdered bark, stir, and drink. In addition, slippery elm is an effective and natural remedy for sore throat.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar
Usually, people use apple cider vinegar for bacterial infections. Several studies indicate its antimicrobial effects in fighting infections. Due to its acidic nature, it can also break down mucus in the throat. To get rid of a sore throat, you can add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to one cup of water and gargle it.
Conclusion
A sore throat can make it difficult for you to drink or swallow. Therefore, you need to get rid of it as soon as possible. The above-mentioned home remedies can be effective in soothing a sore throat.
