Natural Remedies For A Sore Throat
We all know the feeling of waking up to a sore throat. No fun. Luckily, the ingredients you need to help you feel better might already be in your kitchen. Here are a few easy ways I have found to relieve some of the swelling and pain with natural remedies for a sore throat.
A Spoon of Honey
Honey is naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, making it the perfect remedy for a sore throat. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it tastes delicious. Any raw honey works, but certain types – such as manuka honey — contain a higher percentage of antimicrobial properties. Swallow a teaspoon of honey or mix it in some warm water and drink.
Gargle Salt Water
Mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and gargle it at the back of your throat. It isn’t pleasant, but it will alleviate some of your symptoms. The salt draws out the water from your throat cells, which reduces swelling. Saltwater may also help kill some bacteria and viruses.
Steam your Face (and Body)
If you have a stuffy nose and a sore throat, try a facial steamer or steam room if you have access to one. A hot shower can work just as well. The steam will help empty the mucous from your sinuses and hydrate your sinus linings, soothing irritation, and dryness. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a handful of Epsom salts and drop it in as you start your shower. Eucalyptus can help clear up your sinuses for easier breathing. Magnesium from the Epsom salts can absorb through your skin to relax your tissues and airways.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is more than just comfort food. It has long been recognized as a remedy for sickness and sore throats. Quality chicken soup contains minerals and vitamins that support your immune system and the proteins support building antibodies to fight off infection. A study published in 2000 found that chicken soup has anti-inflammatory properties.
Stay Hydrated
Though drinking and eating can feel uncomfortable with a sore throat, it’s important to stay hydrated. I have found a blend of 2 teaspoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, and the juice of half a lemon mixed in a cup of hot water provides a very soothing beverage. Each of these ingredients offers its own support in recovery. Staying hydrated will soothe your throat and help your body fight off the sickness quicker.
Get Lots of Rest
Rest is essential when you’re sick. Your body needs extra time to recover and regain energy. Sleep is essential, not overrated. Take a few days and care for your body. Your immune system needs as much energy as it can get to fight off your sickness. Don’t waste your energy elsewhere.
Quick Recovery With Natural Remedies
Symptoms such as a sore throat are your body’s effort to alert you to a battle it has already been fighting for a day or so. Your immune system is asking for help to do its job effectively. If you heed the warning and provide support with some of these tips, you will likely recover faster.
