The main symptom is pain and irritation in the throat, especially when you swallow.

A sore throat occurs as part of your bodys immune response to viral or bacterial infections.

Your natural immune response leads to inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes in the throat.

 

Fortunately, there are several natural remedies that may provide relief, including some that are supported by scientific evidence.

 

The marshmallow plant has been used to treat sore throats and other conditions since the Middle Ages.

 

Its root contains a gelatin-like substance known as mucilage, which coats and lubricates the throat when you swallow it.

 

Lozenges containing marshmallow root have been tested in animals and found to be effective and nontoxic, even at very high doses

 

Although you may know sage as an herb used in cooking, it also has several medicinal uses.

 

Sage originated in the Mediterranean and is now grown throughout the world.

 

It has been used to treat many inflammatory conditions, and controlled studies suggest it can help relieve throat pain.

 

Apple cider vinegar is a natural health tonic that is been used in folk medicine remedies for centuries. Its main active ingredient, acetic acid, helps fight bacteria.

 

The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, even prescribed a combination of apple cider vinegar and honey - known as oxymel - to treat flu symptoms such as coughs and sore throats.

 

To help relieve throat pain, drink 1 cup of warm water mixed with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and an optional tablespoon of honey.

 

Gargling with salt water is a well-known natural remedy to get rid of a sore throat.

 

The salt helps reduce swelling by pulling water out of your throat tissue. It may also help kill unwanted microbes in your throat.

 

Combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 teaspoon of salt and stir to dissolve. Gargle with a mouthful of this mixture for 30 seconds, once per hour.

 

Honey is a delicious sweetener that is often used in combination with other natural ingredients to soothe a sore throat.

 

In addition to helping fight infection and providing pain relief, honey can undeniably make remedies taste better.

 

Honey may be especially effective when combined with warm water and apple cider vinegar or herbs.

 

However, it should not be given to children under the age of one because their guts have not had a chance to acquire healthy bacteria that can fight off germs, such as botulism spores, that are sometimes found in honey.

 

 

Licorice is a plant native to Europe and South Asia.

 

Interestingly, it has been used in traditional medicine to treat many disorders.

 

Licorice has properties similar to aspirin that may help reduce sore throat pain.

 

Lemon water is a refreshing beverage that may also reduce the throat pain that occurs during a cold or the flu.

 

Lemon contains vitamin C and antioxidants. It also increases the amount of saliva you produce, which can help keep your mucous membranes moist.

 

Combining lemon with warm water and a bit of honey or salt water may be the best way to maximize its benefits.

 

Ginger is a spice with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve throat pain.

 

One study found that when ginger extract was applied to throat swabs from people with bacterial respiratory tract infections, it helped kill some of the bacteria responsible for the illness.

 

Ginger tea can be purchased from most markets or online retailers. You can also make your own from fresh ginger.

 

Coconut oil is a versatile food with several health benefits.

 

Animal studies suggest that it may help fight infection, reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

 

Coconut oil is also very soothing because it helps lubricate the mucous membranes in the throat.

 

Here are a few ideas you can try:

 

Add a spoonful to hot tea or hot cocoa.

Add a spoonful to soup.

Simply put a spoonful in your mouth and allow it to melt down your throat.

It is best to limit coconut oil to about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) per day, as it can have a laxative effect at higher dosages. If you have never tried coconut oil, start out taking 1 teaspoon (5 ml) at a time to minimize potential side effects.

 

Cinnamon is a fragrant and delicious spice that is high in antioxidants and provides antibacterial benefits.

 

It is a traditional remedy for colds and flus and is used in Chinese medicine to ease sore throat pain.

 

Cinnamon tea is available for purchase in most grocery stores in both herbal and regular varieties. You can also add cinnamon to herbal or black tea.

 

Another delicious option is to make your own cinnamon almond milk, which may be especially soothing on your throat.

 

Your Health Is Our Concern!

 

Mawuena Workartey/ Ghanahospitals.org