Natural Sore-Throat Remedies

For millions of people every year, sore throats serve as the major warning signal that they are about to be hit with the flu, common cold or a bacterial infection like strep throat. On a far less ominous note, allergies, dry air and pollutants can also cause them.

of over-the-counter medications that can treat aching throats, there are also countless home and natural remedies to sooth the soreness for those who prefer more organic health care or just can’t make it to the pharmacy.

 Licorice Root

Also known as “sweet root,” this perennial herb, commonly grown in southern Europe and Asia, has been used in medicine for thousands of years. Licorice is known to soothe and coat sore throats, and helps eliminate phlegm and mucous in the nose, throat and lungs. A 2009 study found that gargling with a licorice and water mixture gave patients with post-operative tracheal tubes less severe sore throats than those who gargled with just water.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a staple food when it comes to being sick, but it turns out it is good for more than its comforting taste. Research suggests the chicken and vegetable combo helps reduce upper respiratory cold symptoms, including soothing sore throats.

Apple Cider Vinegar

This brown liquid is thought to have antibacterial properties that can help fight the infection causing sore throats. The acidity of the vinegar decreases the pH of tissue, which helps prevent bacteria from growing on its surface. Raw apple cider vinegar also has the prebiotic inulin, which may increase your number of white blood cells and T cells, and boosts your immune system.

Honey

Mixing warm water, honey and lemon is a time-honored tradition to treat aching throats in many households., the active ingredient in over-the-counter cold medicines, at relieving cough symptoms, and was rated more favorably for symptom relief during sleep.

Garlic

This bulbous plant is antimicrobial, says Dr. Asher, and therefore potentially useful in treating early-stage sore throats. Unfortunately, scientific studies haven’t linked directly linked the two, and you risk having horrible breath.

While these treatments can be useful in relieving pain, they can’t cure more serious infections like strep. Drs. suggest making an appointment with your physician if you see white patches on the back of your throat, are so sore you can’t eat or drink anything, or have a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for longer than two days (less time for children).

Source: Dr.OZ Show

N.H.Khider