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Remedies for a Sore & Burning Throat

Sore throats are a common side effect of colds and influenza, as well as allergies and other health issues. In most cases, a scratchy, burning throat can be assuaged using over-the-counter medications or home remedies.

  1. Over-the-Counter Solutions

    • Usually, the illness causing a sore throat will need to run its course before the throat feels entirely better. While you wait, pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) or aspirin can ease a sore throat, as will cold medicines such as NyQuil. However, do not give aspirin or other salicylate-containing products to people younger than 18, as they can cause Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal condition.

      Throat lozenges---particularly those made from slippery elm bark---may also be beneficial. And when congested sinuses irritate the throat, your health-care provider or a pharmacist can suggest a saline nasal spray to help clear the sinus passages.

    Soothing Drinks

    • Warm drinks such as herbal tea, broth or soup not only ease a sore throat but also keep sensitive mucus membranes hydrated, helping prevent any further irritation.

      Honey, lemon, cayenne pepper, slippery elm bark, licorice or ginger added to a warm cup of herbal tea can soothe a sore throat. Avoid caffeinated black or green teas, which can cause dehydration and further irritate the throat.

    Gargle

    • Gargling warm water often eases the pain of a sore throat and, depending on what the solution contains, may provide other benefits that heal the body.

      Mix 1/4 tsp. salt and 1 cup warm water; repeat several times throughout the day. Add the juice of one lemon for an extra healing punch.

      Gargling 2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup warm water helps kill bacteria, and the acidity of the vinegar acts as a pain reliever. Five drops of grapefruit-seed extract mixed in water has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, while five dried or fresh thyme leaves infused with hot water can also act as an antiseptic.

    When to See a Doctor

    • Contact a health-care professional if your sore throat lasts longer than one week, there are white patches or pus on the throat or tonsils, you are vomiting or have difficulty swallowing, there is blood in the saliva or phlegm or if there is a fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit in babies younger than 6 months or 103 degrees in children or adults.

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