A sore throat normally appears with changes in the weather. It could also be an accompanying symptom of a common cold along with a runny or blocked nose, headache, and fever. Even though a sore throat is rarely serious, one thing we can all agree on is that it’s horribly irritating. A sore throat can cause a lot of discomfort and pain. It can even get in the way of your normal daily routine, especially if your job involves public speaking, meeting various people or making lots of phone calls.
We’re always looking for fast remedies to get rid of a sore throat as soon as possible. Here are some natural beverages you can make at home that can help you on your way to recovery
1. Ginger & Honey
Ginger has great anti-inflammatory properties.1 In fact, it can also act as a painkiller and dull the pain of a sore throat as an added benefit.2 The added honey is not just there to help the ginger juice go down a little easier. Honey has its own antibacterial properties which can help kill any infections in your throat. Studies have shown that honey can effectively help reduce coughing, especially at night when it can cause disturbed sleep.3 Chop up ginger and blend it before straining to make half a cup of undiluted ginger juice. Add in a spoon of honey and sip it slowly to allow it to work its magic.
2. Pineapple Juice
Pineapple is known to contain a lot of enzymes which can break down proteins. In fact, it’s historically been a popular remedy in South America for indigestion. One of these digestive juices is called bromelain. Bromelain has a number of uses, one of which is treating sore throats and inflammation. Some studies suggest that bromelain has anti-bacterial properties and can even help reduce symptoms of sinusitis. Again, make sure it is fresh, pure, undiluted juice with no added water or sugar.4
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is a wonder herb that can help with all sorts of ailments. It’s most often used to aid sleep and relaxation. However, chamomile, like most of the other natural remedies on this list, has anti-inflammatory properties. This can help reduce the swelling and pain that accompanies a sore throat. Studies show that chamomile can help reduce the likelihood of patients developing a postoperative sore throat (throat dryness, pain, and discomfort that results from tubing that is inserted into the windpipe during the procedure).5
4. Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root tea has been a traditional home remedy for sore throats and colds for centuries. Licorice may help reduce symptoms of most respiratory illnesses and cold-related symptoms.6 The warm tea can help soothe the throat and provide much-needed hydration for the body as well.
5. Garlic Juice
Garlic is proven to show antibacterial action as well as anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce painful swelling and help ease a sore throat. Garlic is also a great preventative for the common cold. It can reduce the severity and length of symptoms’ time frame.7 Like the ginger, you need undiluted garlic juice to sip slowly. If you wish to, you can add some honey to make it more palatable.
6. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe Vera is described as having antiseptic properties as well as ingredients that help stop itching sensations. Therefore, aloe gel can help soothe and bring relief to an itchy throat. Pure aloe gel is what is recommended for use in this remedy. You can buy this from health food stores or buy aloe vera as a house plant. It is easy to maintain and you can use the leaves to extract the gel as needed. Mix one tablespoon of pure aloe gel with honey and water. You may add some chopped onion to this mixture and let it sit before drinking. Be careful with your doses since it is not recommended to consume more than 3 tablespoons of aloe gel in a day.8
As with any illness, your body is trying to fight off the intruders. It needs plenty of help to do that, so make sure to get plenty of rest and use these beverages along with plenty of water to stay hydrated. It’s also advisable that you stay away from overly acidic drinks such as citrus-based ones as they can aggravate a sore throat. Next time your throat feels itchy and you know it’s the beginnings of a sore throat, you won’t have to suffer the irritation, pain, and discomfort for too long. These natural remedies will clear your throat up in no time.
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