How to Soothe a Sore Throat Naturally

Video Preview

Introduction

Most sore throats are caused by viruses and are usually accompanied by a cold or flu. But they can also be caused by bacteria, allergies and environmental irritation. Here's how you can get rid of the soreness naturally.

By: eHow Health Editor

Length: 1:02

Comments: 21

View more articles by this author

Flag | RSS

Instructions

Text Size: +
Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Tips & Warnings:

  • If your sore throat does not improve after a week to 10 days, or if you have trouble swallowing or notice white patches in the back of your throat, see a doctor.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, contact a physician or other health care professional before engaging in any activity related to health and diet. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.

Step1
Use a vaporizer or humidifier in your bedroom.
Step2
Gargle with warm salt water (1/4 tsp. salt in 8-oz. glass of water) several times a day.
Step3
Increase your fluid intake.
Step4
Drink tea or even plain hot water with honey.
Step5
Mix honey and lemon juice together and drink.
Step6
Use zinc lozenges for healing and pain relief.
Step7
Take a high-potency multivitamin and echinacea to build up your immune system.
Step8
Reduce exposure to dust, cigarette smoke and other chemical irritants.
Step9
Avoid very spicy or hot foods.

Comments

| View All Comments
Flag This Comment

on 6/10/2008 Great article. Lots of useful tips.

Flag This Comment

on 12/16/2007 Is there any evidence in randomised trials for these remedies? I know that Zinc does not improve or speed recovery for viral infections. High potency multivitamins do not improve immune function, unless lacking, which is very rare in developed countries. There is conflicting evidence for echinacea.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 8/8/2006 - Put about 3 tablespoons of clover honey in a bowl.
- Microwave for about 20 seconds, or until the honey melts (it will be hot, so watch out).
- Add about 2 or 3 tablespoons of lemonade.
- Stir it and sip slowly or eat with a spoon.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 8/8/2006 This can immediately make your throat feel a hundred times worse. Suck on a throat lozenge for relief.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

Flag This Comment

on 8/8/2006 Buy some licorice root at your local health food store and steep it in boiling water for a few minutes. Sip the tea slowly. It really takes away the pain! Also, there are many sore throat tea offerings that are pre -mixed. Many include licorice root, raspberry leaves, echinacea. They have been a great help to our family.

View All

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Video Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article:  How to Soothe a Sore Throat Naturally

eHow Health Editor

eHow Health Editor

Category: Health

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads

Health

DrJewell
Meet DrJewell eHow’s Health Expert.