*Ahem Ahem*
That’s it! It’s the time of the year when your saliva goes down like sandpaper and when you can’t wait for that lump in the back of your throat to go away.
I understand that you want to get rid of that sore throat quickly, so how about using these common and most favorite home remedies.
Gargling With Saltwater
Gargling with saltwater is one of the ancient techniques that has been used for ages for all-mouth-related issues. From sore throat to toothache and gum-related problems, saltwater gargling is one of the easiest tested remedies. When you end up with a sore throat, the first thing you think of is gargling with warm salt water because it’s something that most of us grew up with.
While this remedy may not provide immediate relief, it does have amazing benefits:
- Allergic reactions, bacterial and viral infections are some of the common causes of a sore throat and gargling with salt water regularly can flush out these infectious particles.
- Saltwater is alkaline in nature and can thus increase the pH level of the mouth. Bacteria usually thrive in an acidic medium and struggle to survive in an alkaline medium. Hence, saltwater can inhibit the reproduction and growth of bacteria in the mouth.
- This healing agent can also reduce swelling and irritation in the throat.
- Due to its natural antibacterial properties, saltwater can act as a wound healer while reducing inflammation.
- And, finally, it all comes down to osmosis. You see, a sore throat can occur due to an overabundance of bad bacteria in the throat. And, saltwater is the most preferred method to soothe a sore throat because salt is more soluble in warm water.
According to Mayo Clinic, one should mix around 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt with every 8 ounces of water. The water should be warm as warmth is said to be more relieving to a sore throat than cold.
Honey
Honey is a very healthy and natural source of sugar; a mixture of glucose and fructose that consists of vitamins, minerals and traces of other such nutrients. And, since ancient times, honey has been used as both food and medicine. Due to its antiseptic, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties, honey can not only be used to boost the immune system, but can be used in fighting many diseases, including a sore throat.
As per Charlotte Smith, MD, a physician at Penn Medicine Urgent Care South Philadelphia, “Since honey consists of natural antibacterial properties, it becomes one of the best remedies for a sore throat. It acts as a wound healer, immediately offering relief for pain while working to reduce inflammation. Moreover, it can also kill bacteria and help fight off viral infections.”
So, if you are suffering from a sore throat, combine two-three tablespoons of honey with some warm water or tea and stir well. Drink several times a day.
But, it’s important to note that honey can never be given to infants until they are a year old because it contains botulism, a bacterial toxin.
Lemons
In case you don’t have honey, you can still use lemons as they have the same healing effects.
Lemons are rarely used to add flavor to food and are rarely consumed because of their intense, sour taste. However, these fruits are popular because they are a very rich source of vitamin C and anti-oxidant properties that can help to cure several illnesses.
Regularly sipping on lemon water can help to fight inflammation and reduce throat pain. Studies have proven that lemons can also increase the amount of saliva the mouth produces, which can thus help in keeping the mucous membranes moist.
So, try mixing lemon juice with some warm water or tea and add a little honey or saltwater if you want to maximize the benefits.
