|  | Conditions Treatments | Cold Flu

Herbal Remedies for a Sore Throat

A sore throat can be extremely painful and inconvenient. Commercial sore throat remedies often contain high amounts of sugars and unnecessary medicines and are not as effective as desired. By comparison, herbal treatments are healthier and alleviate symptoms associated with sore throat promptly and proficiently. A variety of herbs, such as ginger and sage, are successful in relieving sore throat pain and irritation. Mix up one of these herbal potions for rapid relief.

  1. Ginger

    • Ginger boasts anti-inflammatory properties that will significantly lessen the pain related to an irritated throat. Slice 2 tsps. of fresh ginger and steep in 1 cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. Drink a cup of the ginger water as needed. The warm water will soothe pain and the ginger will alleviate the swelling and irritation. If the water is too cool, it will not be as effective. If it is too cool at the end of 15 minutes, heat it back up to the temperature you desire. Optionally, add a tea bag for flavor.

    Garlic

    • Garlic has been proven to aid ailments that require the dehydrating of bodily fluids. Because many sore throats stem from the drainage of nasal passages, garlic is a great tool in fighting a sore throat caused by sinus issues or allergies. Chew raw cloves of garlic to quickly lighten sore throat pain. If the idea of chewing raw garlic is not very pleasant, gargling with garlic will provide the same results. Steep a teaspoon of sliced garlic in a cup of boiling water for three minutes. Tear parsley or mint leaves and steep for two additional minutes. Add a pinch of salt and gargle as needed.

    Sage

    • Sage is commonly used in the treatment of a variety of ailments, including gingivitis, sore throat, and indigestion. Its therapeutic qualities are more beneficial when the essential oils are released prior to consumption. Do this by steeping a teaspoon of sage leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for five minutes. Strain the solids out and gargle as necessary. Alternatively, you may also add a teaspoon of lemon juice for flavor.

    Chamomile

    • Chamomile blossoms have therapeutic essential oils that, when released, soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. Add one or two teaspoons of dried chamomile to a pint of boiling water and steep for five minutes, or to desired taste. Drink as needed throughout the day. Many tea makers sell chamomile tea commercially. This option is equally effective for the treatment of a sore throat.

Cold Flu - Related Articles