Getting sick in current times is a scary thought. Although, with cold and flu season just around the corner, developing a pesky sore throat or a measly cough isn’t unlikely. For a simple cold, there are some easy remedies using natural ingredients that soothe a sore throat.
Salt Water
While not the most pleasant natural remedy, gargling salt water can do wonders for a sore throat. Make a saltwater solution with regular table salt and warm water. Gargling the solution will soothe irritations and break down any mucus buildup that could be creating the sore throat.
Honey
Mixing honey into your tea or water, or consuming honey sticks, is a common natural household remedy for sore throats. Honey can also tame an annoying nighttime cough and effectively heal irritation from a sore throat.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is naturally soothing, and many people use it for medicinal purposes. Chamomile tea is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties that make it a great resource when fighting a cold.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Another not-so-pleasant but effective remedy is apple cider vinegar. Because of its acidic nature, it can help break down mucus in the throat and stop bacteria from spreading. Like the saltwater remedy, you can add some apple cider vinegar to a cup of warm water to gargle. If your sore throat is driving you nuts, the taste is a fair trade-off to alleviate the pain.
Garlic
Garlic has many natural antibacterial properties. It contains allicin, an organosulfur compound that is known for its ability to fight off infections. Adding fresh garlic to your diet will help you gain its antimicrobial properties.
Hot Sauce
Hot sauce containing cayenne pepper is an uncommon natural ingredient that soothes a sore throat. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a natural compound that blocks pain receptors, making it an excellent option for a painful sore throat.
Try some cayenne mixed with warm water and honey to manage the scratchy pain associated with a sore throat, but start with just a few drops if you aren’t a hot sauce connoisseur.
