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Home Remedies for a Sore Thoat

With each season change, along comes sinus drainage and sore throats. Although there is a wide variety of sore throat remedies sold commercially, a lot of them have added sugars and unnecessary medications. Some only alleviate swelling and do nothing to relieve the pain. An alternative, healthier option to commercial remedies is to concoct a homemade elixir that will treat your symptoms quickly and effectively. Combine a few natural ingredients for the ultimate in sore throat relief.

  1. Ginger Tea

    • Ginger is most commonly known for its therapeutic properties in the treatment of gastrointestinal issues. However, it is also beneficial for the treatment of a sore and swollen throat. Ginger teas are sold commercially, but can also be created at home.

      Heat the desired amount of water to boiling. When it reaches a rolling boil, remove from the heat and add any type of tea bags. Allow to steep for one to two minutes. In the meantime, clean and slice a ginger root and add into the hot water. Use one tablespoon of ginger root per cup of water. Steep the ginger tea for 15 to 20 minutes for maximum effectiveness.

    Cayenne Pepper Gargle

    • Cayenne pepper is a terrific ingredient for a pain-relieving gargle. Mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in one cup of water and gargle throughout the day, as needed. Cayenne is very hot and may cause skin irritation. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching eyes or other sensitive areas. Do not swallow the cayenne water as the large amount of cayenne may cause stomach upset.

    Sage

    • The essential oils found in sage leaves are beneficial in treating many ailments, such as gingivitis, indigestion and sore throat. When the sage leaves are heated, the essential oils are released into the liquid in which they are submerged. Steep a teaspoon of fresh sage leaves in a cup of boiling water for five minutes. Drain the solids and gargle the elixir. For more flavor, you may opt to add a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

    Chamomile

    • Chamomile is a popular ingredient in teas because of its therapeutic properties. The essential oils found in chamomile blossoms calm irritation and reduce inflammation. Boil as much water as desired and add half a teaspoon of dried chamomile per cup of water. Steep the solution for five minutes, or to desired strength. To concoct chamomile tea, include a tea bag in the steeping fluid. Honey may be added to sweeten the tea and heighten the pain-relieving benefits.

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