Sore throats often occur as a result of a viral infection. They can be quite unpleasant as they may cause difficulties in swallowing, persistent pain, or even loss of voice.
The medications available at pharmacies are effective, but they are often filled with substances that are not beneficial for our health.
You can relieve sore throat pain using natural methods based on ingredients with therapeutic properties. These not only eliminate sore throat pain but also have other benefits for the body.
Causes of Sore Throat
Sore throat can arise from dry air, smoking, viral infections such as the flu or the common cold, and bacterial infections like streptococcus. Typically, a viral infection is associated with other symptoms, such as muscle aches and fatigue. In the case of a bacterial infection, the pain is usually more concentrated in the throat and tends to be quite severe, especially when swallowing. Additionally, you may notice a high fever.
If a virus causes a sore throat, antibiotics are not recommended. Most sore throats will improve on their own within a week. When antibiotics are not necessary, they will not help, and their side effects could harm the body. Side effects can range from mild reactions, such as a skin rash, to more serious health issues. These problems can include severe allergic reactions, antibiotic-resistant infections, and infection.
Natural Remedies for Sore Throat
Honey
Honey is the most well-known and oldest remedy used for sore throats. Used since ancient times, either on its own or in tea, honey soothes throat irritation and treats infections. Studies in the field have confirmed the effectiveness of honey when it comes to throat pain and cough. A recent study showed that honey was more effective in alleviating symptoms than some traditional remedies.
Salt Water Gargle
Gargling with salt water also has immediate effects on sore throat pain. According to a study conducted at the University of Connecticut, salt water and a bit of garlic used for gargling not only relieve pain but also help clear mucus from the throat.
To prepare the gargle solution, you need: 1 tablespoon of salt, a glass of warm water, and a bit of grated garlic. According to the American Osteopathic Association, people with sore throats should gargle with salt water at least once an hour.
Garlic
Garlic consumed raw also has miraculous effects on sore throats. Allicin, a substance found in garlic, kills the bacteria that cause pain. Therefore, suck on half a clove of garlic as if it were a candy, and the pain will be alleviated.
Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root is a medicinal plant with amazing effects for irritated or inflamed throats. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties make it an effective remedy for sore throats. Studies have shown that steam inhalations with marshmallow are beneficial, not just consuming marshmallow tea.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey
Another effective remedy for sore throats is one based on apple cider vinegar and honey. The increased acidity of apple cider vinegar kills bacteria in the throat, while honey soothes irritation.
For this remedy, you need:
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon of honey
1 cup of warm water
Mix the ingredients and consume the resulting liquid before it cools.
However, do not overuse this remedy. Specialists warn that there is a risk that vinegar may affect tooth enamel since vinegar is acidic, and repeated use can damage tooth enamel.
Baking Soda Tea
Baking soda tea can be a helpful ally if you suffer from severe throat pain. The antibacterial properties of baking soda make it an ideal pain reliever.
To prepare such tea, you need:
1 cup of warm water
1 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of baking soda
Add the salt and baking soda to the warm water, then gargle with the resulting liquid. Repeat the process three times a day, and by evening you will notice that the pain has disappeared.
Ginger
Ginger also soothes sore throats. It speeds up the healing process when it comes to throat infections. To prepare ginger tea for sore throats, you need:
A piece of ginger root
Honey
2-3 cups of water
Wash the ginger, then grate it. Boil the water and then add the ginger. After 3 minutes, remove the pot from the heat, strain the tea, and add honey to taste. Consume this tea warm, but not hot.
Thyme or Oregano Tea
Drinking warm tea made from thyme or oregano can help soothe throat pain. Specifically, these teas contain compounds that can provide additional relief. According to a recent study, herbal teas prepared with concentrations of licorice, thyme, or oregano can alleviate discomfort associated with sore throat.
Fenugreek Tea
Fenugreek tea is another common remedy for sore throats. A review of the literature shows that fenugreek has numerous health benefits, such as:
Alleviating pain, such as menstrual cramps
Destroying bacteria that cause irritation or inflammation
Being an effective antifungal
Stimulating lactation
Attention! The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) recommends that pregnant women avoid excessive consumption of fenugreek.
Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a substance similar to mucus that coats and soothes throat pain. A 2019 literature review showed that marshmallow root is beneficial for soothing respiratory tract irritations, such as sore throats.
Marshmallow root can be consumed in the form of herbal tea, tincture, or it is also available in capsule form.
Echinacea
Echinacea extract is often used as a remedy for treating colds, sore throats, and the flu. Several studies suggest that it may also help treat respiratory infections, reduce inflammation and pain, and has antiviral effects. Other laboratory studies suggest that it can inactivate the bacteria that cause streptococcal pharyngitis.
Other Recommendations if You Are Experiencing Sore Throat
Drink very cold liquids
The first sips may not be pleasant. However, consuming very cold liquids can numb the throat and calm some of the inflammation causing pain.
Avoid acidic foods
Gastroesophageal reflux, which occurs when stomach acids reach the throat, is a common cause of sore throat. This means that anything you do to stimulate gastroesophageal reflux could prolong or worsen throat pain. For this reason, specialists recommend avoiding carbonated drinks, fried foods, and citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. Also, avoid eating within an hour before bedtime. Otherwise, reflux and heartburn may worsen.
Rest your voice
When your throat hurts, you should rest your voice. This does not mean you should not speak at all. In fact, that can strain your voice more than speaking softly. Instead, try to speak at a lower volume than usual until the hoarseness and pain subside.
Change your toothbrush
Did you know that after every illness, specialists recommend changing your toothbrush? The reason? Bacteria accumulate on the brush, and any gum injury during brushing injects these germs into the body. As soon as you start to feel better, throw away your toothbrush. Changing your toothbrush is often recommended for patients with bacterial throat infections to eliminate the spread of infection and reinfection.
Sleep with your head elevated
This helps in several ways. When you lie on your back, it increases pressure on the throat, and this position can exacerbate throat pain. If you sleep with your head supported by several pillows, you relieve pressure and thus feel better.
When Should You See a Doctor
Streptococcal pharyngitis is an extremely painful bacterial infection that can appear suddenly. Fortunately, the vast majority of bacterial infections, including streptococcus, generally respond well to antibiotic treatment. Since sore throats can have so many causes, some symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. These include:
Severe, prolonged, or recurrent throat pain
Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or opening the mouth
Joint pain, ear pain, or a lump in the throat
Skin rash or fever over 38°C
Hoarseness lasting 2 weeks or more
White spots in the throat
Blood in saliva or phlegm
