How to Soothe a Sore Throat Naturally

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

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Instructions

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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

Willboywonder said

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

irishmedic said

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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 said

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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 said

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

Anonymous said

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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.

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