Harmattan is here finally and sore throat, coughs and catarrh are usually prevalent due to infections and the dryness in the air. Sore throats are contagious, and it’s important to address the issue as soon as symptoms develop. Sore throat signs and symptoms vary depending on the cause. Some common sore throat symptoms include:
- pain that worsens when swallowing or talking
- difficulty swallowing
- a scratchy sensation in the throat
- sore, swollen glands in the neck or jaw
- swollen, red tonsils
- white patches on the tonsils
- hoarseness
If an infection causes your sore throat, you may develop a fever, headache, body aches, cough, runny nose and nausea. Regardless of the cause of your sore throat, your immediate concern when soreness strikes is how to get relief, fast. Thankfully, there are natural sore throat remedies that you can use at home and don’t require an antibiotic prescription to deal with sore throat problems.
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Natural Remedy using Raw honey and lemon
A mixture of fresh lemon juice and raw honey provides soothing relief for sore throats and helps stop the tickle that stimulates coughing. Raw honey is high in nutrients and enzymes which kill bacteria and viruses. The vitamin C and antioxidants found in fresh lemons boost the immune system, speeding healing. Together these two home remedies are a powerhouse for getting over a cold and sore throat. Mix the juice of 1/2 the lemon with 2- 3 tablespoons of honey and sip throughout the day as needed.
Turmeric contains the polyphenolic compound curcumin, which has powerful antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. The potent anti-inflammatory and pathogen-fighting properties of curcumin make turmeric an excellent remedy for treating a sore throat caused by a cold or the flu. You can also brew a cup of turmeric tea to soothe your sore throat. Mix in raw honey and lemon juice for added benefits. You will need;
- Organic turmeric powder (antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory) – ½ tablespoon
- Raw honey (antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory) – 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice, freshly squeezed (kills bacteria) – ½ lemon
- Water – 2 cups
Boil turmeric in water and strain it. Mix in honey and lemon & drink the healing concoction. Mix in honey and lemon and consume to use turmeric for sore throat.
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Natural Remedy using Apple cider vinegar
Vinegar is acidic and can kill bacteria in the throat, and also coat and soothe a sore throat. It may also loosen phlegm that may be irritating the throat. Use as a gargle – mix 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar with 8 ounces of water. This also can be combined with 1 teaspoon of salt for a saltwater vinegar gargle (gargling with warm salt water remedy). You also can add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 tablespoon of honey to your tea.
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Natural Remedy Using Raw garlic
Garlic has antiseptic properties, and it may help relieve sore throat pain. When crushed, raw garlic releases a compound called allicin that has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. The best way to use garlic for sore throats is simply to chew on a raw clove, or take a slice and suck on it for 15 minutes. This may be hard for most people to handle. To make the raw garlic easier to ingest, you can mince it and add some honey or olive oil. Blend some with other veggies and make vegetable juice. Add it to a little salsa. The key is to eat it raw and as soon as possible after crushing for the allicin to be effective.
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Natural Remedy Using Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint essential oil gives a cooling sensation and has a calming effect on the body, which can relieve sore muscles when used topically. It also has antimicrobial properties so it can help freshen bad breath and soothe digestive issues. The main component of peppermint is menthol, which is believed to act as a decongestant by thinning mucus. Peppermint oil is inhaled by many people for healing apparent symptoms of cough, colds, and sore throats. When you use peppermint essential oil, you can add just 1-3 drops to any tea to experience some pretty powerful benefits. You can also utilize the oil as a rub on your throat or chest. Peppermint will definitely soothe your sore throat, and ease your dry cough. Drink peppermint tea, or add some peppermint oil to a diffuser, or rub some peppermint essential oil