By: Ana Margarita Olar| Vigorbuddy.com
Having sore throat can cause pain, loss of appetite and overall feeling of discomfort. And before you grab that antibiotic or go to the doctor, stop by your kitchen and you’ll discover some natural ways to relieve a sore throat:
GARGLE WITH SALT WATER
Dissolve half teaspoon salt in one cup of warm water. Gargle the solution for several seconds before spitting it out. Salt has a natural antibacterial property and warm water can reduce swelling and loosen mucus to facilitate flushing of irritants or bacteria.
WATER THERAPY
Keep yourself hydrated when you have a sore throat especially if you have a fever that usually accompanies a sore throat. One, it keeps your mucous membranes moist to effectively trap allergens, and two, having enough fluids helps prevent dehydration caused by the fever.
STEAM THERAPY
Often times, an itchy throat is accompanied by blocked nasal passages, pour menthol oil in a bowl of warm water and inhale the steam. It will help to loosen any secretions and soothe an itchy throat.
GARLIC AND GINGER LOZENGE
The odor and taste may not be that good but the relief that garlic and ginger bring is worth it. These two contains a substance called allicin, a compound that fights a sore throat causing bacteria. The menthol property of these two can also provide relief for the itchy throat.
TEA THERAPY
A warm cup of herbal tea can offer fast relief for a sore throat. Tea also contains antioxidants that aid in the strong immune system and helps prevent infection.
CHICKEN SOUP
Chicken soup may be the oldest remedy for any ailments because it provides comfort and warmth. It is hard to swallow foods when you have a sore throat so a chicken soup is great to get the nourishment and hydration that you need. Also, the sodium in the soup has anti-inflammatory properties.
HOT TODDY
Mix 2 oz whiskey, 1 tbsp honey, 4-ounce hot water, and lemon juice. Drinking this concoction will help relieve a sore throat because one, honey and lemon boosts immunity, warm water soothes the throat, and alcohol will help you sleep better.
ACV DRINK
Mix 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar and 1 tbsp. honey and pour a cup of very warm water. The high level of acidity can kill the bacteria that cause a sore throat.
So the next time you have a sore throat, try one of these natural methods before seeing your doctor or taking any medications.