Natural remedies to ease a sore throat

From air pollution that acts as an irritant to allergies and the frustrating common cold, the causes for developing a sore throat are plenty. While the Mayo Clinic notes that more serious issues may be at hand such as cancerous throat tumors or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a sore throat is likely due -- at least in colder climates or in the winter season -- to dry indoor air that exists in heavily heated environments.⁽¹⁾

The dry, scratchy and often painful feeling that results is bothersome, and many people seek ways to ease sore throat pain.

Unfortunately, the majority of ones that people use, such as store-bought numbing throat sprays, can make health even worse.

Avoid sprays and liquid promises

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they have continued to "receive reports of methemoglobinemia, a serious and potentially fatal adverse effect, associated with benzocaine products both as a spray, used during medical procedures to numb the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat." Methemoglobinemia, while rare, occurs when there is a diminished oxygen supply in the blood stream. Headaches, rapid heart rate and even death may result.⁽²⁾

Rather than take the time to sort through the clutter of over-the-counter "fixes," which have the potential to harm your body, why not turn to more natural methods?


7 ways to soothe a sore throat, naturally
 Here's a look at some easy ways to tame a sore throat. Chances are, most of these remedies are already in your own home.

 

1. Cayenne

Capsaicin, an ingredient found in cayenne peppers, acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Simply mix about one-half teaspoon of cayenne powder to one glass of warm water and gargle. Doing this on an as-needed basis should help provide relief from that pesky sore throat.⁽³⁾

Just remember not to overdo it, as cayenne powder is high on the spicy/hot scale. Additional powder can always be added if it can be tolerated.

 

2. Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

ACV has been recommended for a variety of health situations. From helping to clear skin problems to being an instrumental part of a cleansing detox, it's often a go-to solution.

In the case of a sore throat, it's advised to mix two tablespoons of it with one-quarter cup of warm water and two tablespoons of honey.⁽³⁾

Feeling bold? It can also be taken straight, with no need for dilution.

 

3. Garlic

Chopped or crushed raw garlic is an ideal way to ease a sore throat. Its powerful compounds are both antiviral and antibacterial.

After chopping, let the garlic sit for about 15 minutes. This helps ensure its effectiveness, as cooking lessens its healing properties. Many people enjoy mixing it with honey and lemon or adding the crushed pieces to either a favorite herbal tea or just plain hot water.⁽³⁾

 

4. Sore throat teas

In addition to making a garlic tea like the one described above, plenty of herbal teas exist in health stores. Look for organic ones specifically designed to coat the throat and relieve associated tenderness.

Ones with ginger, licorice root and cinnamon all have warming, soothing qualities that should help.⁽³⁾

 

5. Pickle juice

While this may not sound particularly appealing, it's a go-to option worth exploring.

Gargling with the combination of salt and vinegar that's sitting inside a pickle jar has been said to help relieve sore throat pain. Raw sauerkraut juice works just as well, since it also contains vitamin C and probiotics.⁽³⁾

 

6. Zinc

Several studies have shown that zinc may reduce the duration of a cold and that it may even reduce the total number of colds a person gets annually. While lozenges are linked with crippling the rhinovirus, some people have noted unpleasant side effects such as headaches, a bad taste in their mouth or changes in their sense of smell.⁽⁴⁾

Therefore, zinc supplements from a trusted healthcare store may be something to consider.

Furthermore, many foods naturally contain zinc. Garlic, sesame and pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas are good choices.⁽⁵⁾

7. Warm saltwater

Last but certainly not least, who can forget the common remedy of gargling with warm saltwater? Simply mix one-quarter teaspoon of salt with one-half cup of warm water, and gargle often.

A warm saltwater gargle restores proper pH levels and relaxes throat muscles, which diminishes sore throat pain.⁽³⁾

Trying these natural sore throat remedies should result in a soothing feeling that helps you feel better in no time flat.