We all know that feeling— waking up to a sore throat and realizing you are getting sick. There are definitely better ways to start your day, but it's essential to have your wellness supplies ready for when sore throats strike.
Luckily, the ingredients you need to help you feel better might already be in your kitchen.
So here are a few natural home remedies for a sore throat so you can relieve some of that swelling and pain and start feeling better as soon as possible.
A Spoon of Honey
Honey is naturally antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, making it the perfect home remedy for a sore throat. Plus, it doesn't hurt that it tastes delicious. Any raw honey works, but certain types of honey, such as manuka honey, contain a higher percentage of antimicrobial properties. Swallow a teaspoon of honey or mix it in some warm water and drink - I suggest a warm cup of tea!
Gargle Salt Water
One of the most common home remedies for a sore throat is to mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and gargle it at the back of your throat. It isn't pleasant, but it will alleviate some of your symptoms, and typically gives you quick relief. The salt draws out the water from your throat cells, which reduces swelling. Salt water may also kill some bacteria and viruses.
Note: Make sure you don’t swallow the salt water.
Get Lots of Rest
The only thing you need for this home remedy is your bed. Rest is essential when you're sick. Your body needs extra time to recover and regain energy. If you try to ignore your sore throat and carry on with your day as normal, you may worsen your symptoms, and it could take longer to get better. Take a few days and care for your body. This means, sleeping in, taking a nap, and going to bed earlier than you usually would. Your immune system needs as much energy as it can get to fight off your sickness, so don't waste your energy elsewhere.
Steam your Face (and Body)
If you have a stuffy nose and a sore throat, try a facial steamer or steam room if you have access to one. A hot shower works just as well for this. The steam will help empty the mucous from your sinuses and hydrate your sinus linings, soothing irritation, and dryness. Tip: You can also add a few drops of essential oils. Something like eucalyptus oil added to your shower could help to further clear up your sinuses and help you breathe better.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is a traditional natural home remedy for sickness and sore throats, and it's more than just comfort food. If your throat is sore and scratchy, coughing may further irritate it and make symptoms worse. Warm liquids such as soup keep the throat lining hydrated and less irritated.
Stay Hydrated
We know drinking and eating can feel uncomfortable with a sore throat, but it's important to stay hydrated if you want to feel better. Drink warm liquids if they are more soothing, such as warm lemon water or tea (don’t forget to add in the honey). When your throat is dry, it feels further irritated and inflamed. Staying hydrated will soothe your throat and help your body fight off the sickness quicker.
Leave a comment on this blog to let me know your favorite natural home remedies for your sore throat.
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