Sore throat or throat infection, as it is commonly known, is a condition associated with pain, itchiness, and irritation of the throat. When you have a sore throat, you may experience difficulty in swallowing food and liquids, and the pain and irritation are usually worse as you try to swallow. You may also experience pain around the ears and in the tubes connecting the throat and the ears.

A sore throat can be a symptom of a variety of conditions like a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection or allergies, pollution, acid reflux, or rhinitis (common cold). A sore throat associated with high fever, severe pain, and swelling of lymph nodes in the neck or tonsils is likely a bacterial infection and may need a course of antibiotics. Be sure to consult your doctor in the presence of these signs or symptoms. However, the vast majority of cases of sore throat are viral or allergic in nature and are self-limiting in nature requiring no medical intervention. There are countless, easy home and natural remedies to soothe the soreness and provide some relief from the other symptoms.

Home remedies to ease a sore throat

Honey

Honey supposedly has antibacterial properties and acts as a hypertonic osmotic fluid drawing water out of the inflamed tissues. It can be taken as it is or mixed in tea to soothe the pain.

Tea

Boil a cup of water, add a tea bag, let it become warm, add 1 tablespoon of honey and drink it. Please remember, that honey should not be given to children under the age of 1.

Lemon and Honey

Lemon is another miracle fruit that is easily available throughout the year. It helps to clear the throat. Take equal quantities of honey and lemon juice in small quantities as many times as possible. Or if you prefer, make tea with it and drink it at least three times a day.

Garlic and Apple Cider Vinegar

Garlic is an effective and fast-acting natural remedy for a sore throat. It can be taken along with Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) and honey in warm water. Boil 2-3 garlic pods in water, let it become warm and add ACV and honey.

Ginger

This is one of the oldest remedies for a sore throat. Ginger is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and opens up your sinuses and helps to clear your nose and throat. Take a fresh piece of ginger, wash it properly and put it on the cheek, and suck its juice slowly. Alternately, crush the ginger and mix it with honey and eat it.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is rich in antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, so it fights against infections. It also relief from pain. Fenugreek may be a bit bitter, but its benefits are sweet. Add a few fenugreek seeds to a cup of water and boil and drink it 3-4 times per day.

Pomegranate

It contains antioxidants and astringents which will boost your immune system and fight infection. It can be taken as it is or you can drink its juice without adding sugar.

Gargles

Gargling is a procedure where you pour a few spoonfuls of a liquid onto your throat and let it swirl around and spit it out. It is one of the commonest remedies for sore throat and is highly effective. You can do it 3-4 times a day for better results

Salt Water Gargle

Add half a teaspoon of salt and 1/4th teaspoon of turmeric powder to 1 cup of boiling water, bring it to a warm temperature and use it.

Baking Soda Gargle

Baking soda helps to kill some viruses and bacteria, so add baking soda to hot water and gargle with bearable heat.

Regardless of what remedy you choose, make sure you stay well hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day, avoid cool drinks and juices, especially citrus, and ice creams, and avoid smoking and spicy and acidic foods for fast relief from a sore throat.