Home Remedies for Sore Throat

A sore throat ( also known as pharyngitis or tonsillitis ) is a disease primarily located in throat around the tonsils. Sore throat can be caused by many things. Viruses ( such as those that cause colds and mononucleosis ) can lead to a sore throat. Bacteria ( such as those that cause strep throat ) can also a sore throat, as can smoking, breathing polluted air and allergies to pet dander, pollens and molds.

Symptoms of Sore Throat

Irritation of throat

Chills and fever

Swollen and tender lymph glands

Difficulty in swallowing

Natural home remedies for sore throat

Increase your liquid intake and make sure your house is humidified properly.

Gargle with warm salt water ( 1/4 teaspoon salt to 1/2 cup water ) several times a day. It is effective home remedy for sore throat.

Drink a glass of hot water with 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon honey.

Basil ( tulsi ) leaves are an effective herbal remedy for curing cough, cold, sore throat. Boil 10 - 15 basil leaves in a glass of water. Drain the mixture and drink in small sips. Take this drink two to three times a day till the sore throat is cured completely.

Flavor your food with spices such as ginger, black pepper, salt and garlic.

Ginger is used in various ways to treat sore throat. It is also used in the treatment of cough and cold that causes sore throat. it can be taken in the form of tea. The juice of ginger is also taken with honey in order to treat sore throats.

Don’ts

Do not have a head bath during sore throat.

Do not expose yourself to cold water and cold climate for a few days.

Avoid oily and fried foods as they are extremely aggravating for this condition.

Do not eat cold and refrigerated food items when there is a throat infection. This will make the sore throat so severe that even swallowing food and breathing might become difficult. Do not eat curd and other sour foods.

Avoid cucumbers, bananas, watermelons, papayas, etc.

Source - Stay Fit Health Magazine