How to Get Rid of a Sore Throat Without Medication

Most sore throats come from either viral or bacterial infection, although other less common causes exist, such as inhaled irritants floating in the air. If you have a sore throat, chances are that it will heal by itself within a few days without the need for medication. Most home remedies for sore throats work by either reducing aggravation to the throat or to reduce the pain so that you can get on with your life.

Rest

• Getting more rest helps you to get rid of your sore throat by speeding your body's ability to heal. Air quality in the room in which you plan to rest is important so you don't make your sore throat worse. Pollutants like cigarette smoke and industrial emissions are bad for you, but dry air also can irritate your sore throat and cause further damage to an already inflamed area. A humidifier can help prevent a problem.

Anti-Inflammation

• Ginger and turmeric are herbs that can be used for both their analgesic and anti-inflammation properties, according to Mao Shing Ni, of Santa Monica, California, an expert on nutrition and Chinese medicine. Sprinkle turmeric onto your food. Either incorporate ginger in your meals or brew tea using the herb. Buy lozenges and hard candies that contain natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory ingredients like menthol.

Helpful Foods and Beverages

• Change the foods and beverages in your diet to reduce the aggravation to your sore throat that comes from eating. Cold beverages sooth your throat, as are foods and drinks that can help to coat it. These include honey, milk and milk products like cream. Other foods that will not irritate your throat include oatmeal and warm soups. Excess heat can very easily cause pain and aggravate your condition.

Other Home Remedies

• Gargling with a solution of saltwater is a simple but fairly effective method of moisturizing your sore throat and reducing the pain. Gargle with licorice syrup or apple cider vinegar. Alcoholic beverages like bourbon and whiskey, diluted with warm water, have numbing properties. Avoid swallowing them, though.