How to get rid of a sore throat, also known as Pharyngitis, is one of the most frequently asked questions when people ask for doctor’s help. There are many causes of this disease, but the two most frequent reasons are viruses and bacteria. As you may already know viruses can’t be treated with antibiotics, so we recommend you to start with some herbal remedies for sore throat first. Of course, you should talk to your doctor to determine the right cause because antibiotics can successfully treat sore throat if the cause is bacteria. Until you get the results you can use sore throat home remedies and after that you can combine them with antibiotics.
When a person experiences a sore throat, there are some signs and symptoms, which usually accompany it, like:
- irritation when swallowing accompanied with pain in some cases
- redness in the throat
- the throat is dry
The treatment of sore throat is not a simple process, so in this article we are going to give you some tips on how to get rid of a sore throat naturally.
How to get rid of a sore throat naturally
#1 Gargle your throat
The antiseptic characteristics of salt are also well known. So, gargling your throat with salty water can reduce the sore throat quickly and effectively. Take a glass of warm water and add half a teaspoon of salt. Gargle your throat 3-4 times a day. You can also use baking soda instead of salt. One important thing – DON’T SWALLOW! 
#2 Sage and Thyme Tea
The antibacterial and antiviral characteristics of sage and thyme are well known so you can use sage or thyme tea to gargle your throat.
All you need to do is to pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of Sage or Thyme. Leave it for thirty minutes and filtrate the tea and gargle your throat several times a day.
NOTE: Sage tea shouldn’t be used longer than two weeks. People suffering from epilepsy shouldn’t drink sage tea.
#3 The benefits of honey, honey
One home remedy used for centuries to soothe a sore throat is honey. You can use honey and warm water or add it to any tea; it will work. Drinking hot lemonade with honey is also effective.
#4 How to get rid of a sore throat using roasted apples
Perhaps you can remember the smell of roasted apples from your grandma’s kitchen. If you remember the smell, you will be delighted to learn that it is a successful home remedy to get rid of a sore throat. If you haven’t tasted them yet, we tell you that you will love them.
You need 3 roasted apples. Eat them one after another and make sure they are not too hot.
#5 Drink warm teas
It is known that drinking warm tea can soothe your sore throat. You can add several drops of Propolis to boost its effect. You can also use Propolis as a spray.
#6 Honey and onion syrup
A syrup made of onion and honey can be a very effective answer to the question – how to get rid of a sore throat. Peel one onion and chop it well. Pour honey over it and leave it over night. Filtrate the honey and onions in order to remove the onions and take one teaspoon of this syrup during the day.
NOTE: Avoid giving honey to children under 2 years old.
#7 Warm compresses can help, too
Applying a warm compress or towel to the throat can help you reduce the pain. It is a good idea to soak the towel with chamomile tea. Keep the towel as long as it is warm and replace when needed.
#8 How to get rid of a sore throat using cider vinegar
Make a mixture of cider vinegar and honey (one tablespoons of each) and a cup of hot water. Sip this mixture slowly while it is warm.
#9 Cayenne Pepper will help
Pour a cup of boiling water over half a teaspoon or less of cayenne pepper. Stir until the pepper dissolves completely. Carefully gargle several times a day. The solution of cayenne pepper will break up the mucus in the throat and improve the blood circulation. NOTE: Don’t swallow! Although it has been reported that Cayenne pepper solution can help you immediately, you may experience some problems when you swallow it, so be careful.
#10 Garlic
The health benefits of garlic are well known for a long time. As soon as you start feeling the symptoms of sore throat, eat some garlic. Besides its great effect on the immunity, it successfully eliminates bacteria which cause the sore throat. If possible, consume garlic at least twice a day.
OTHER WAYS TO GET RID OF A SORE THROAT
After you have read our recommendations on how to get rid of a sore throat naturally, please note that there are other ways that can help you soothe your sore throat.
Sucking throat lozenges and hard candies can help you keep your throat moist, but it is not recommended to give them to children because there is a danger of choking.- Keep the air in your room moist with the help of a humidifier or vaporizer.
- Stay away from hot food and drinks, since they may irritate your throat.
- Rest as much as you can. When you are ill, the best thing you can do is to stay in bed and let your body relax.
- Drink lots of fluids. Avoid orange juice and similar juices because of possible throat irritation.
- Avoid spending time in rooms where other people smoke or if you smoke, stop immediately.
These are just some tips on how to get rid of a sore throat you can use in case of a mild sore throat. However, we strongly recommend you to consult your doctor whenever you start feeling any symptoms of sore throat. This is important because a sore throat caused by Streptococcus bacteria (a strep throat) is most successfully treated with antibiotics.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
The information and opinions in this article should not be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment or advice. We advise you to consult your health care provider before you decide to try any of the home remedies listed in this article or anywhere on this blog. The only person who can provide a safe and effective advice on how to get rid of a sore throat or diagnose your condition is your health care provider.