Umair Hassan
At the onset of seasonal changes, especially before winter, consuming overly cold water can lead to throat irritation or inflammation. This is a common ailment that often arises from simultaneously consuming hot and cold foods or drinks.
People with sensitive health may experience this due to slight weather changes, increasing pollution, or combining various types of foods. Throat soreness or inflammation can initially cause significant discomfort, making speaking, eating, or drinking painful. However, this condition can be effectively managed with simple home remedies.
Saltwater Gargles
This age-old remedy has been practiced in South Asia for generations, yielding excellent results. Experts suggest gargling with warm salt water to eliminate toxic bacteria in the throat, which are responsible for soreness and inflammation.
Baking Soda Gargles
Like saltwater, gargling with warm water mixed with baking soda can provide relief. Add half a teaspoon of baking soda and the same amount of salt to a cup of water and gargle for quick results.
Fenugreek Leaves
Massaging the neck and throat with fenugreek leaves mixed with oil or consuming them with tea can effectively kill bacteria causing soreness. Fenugreek leaves can also be boiled in warm water and used for gargling.
Honey
Honey is often regarded as a cure-all remedy. Scientific studies in the U.S. confirm that consuming honey 2-3 times a day, either on its own or mixed in tea, can relieve throat inflammation. Alternatively, mix one teaspoon of honey and ginger in a cup of water, or combine half a lemon’s juice in warm water for gargling.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains antimicrobial properties that help eliminate harmful bacteria. Gargling with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed in a cup of warm water can soothe throat soreness.
Garlic
Garlic’s natural antibiotic properties make it an effective remedy. Chew raw garlic for 15 minutes or suck on its pieces before discarding. If raw garlic is too strong, drizzle it with honey. Additionally, boil garlic in warm water for gargling to kill bacteria in the mouth.
Bell Peppers
Boiling bell peppers in water and gargling with infused water can significantly relieve throat pain and irritation.
Mint Leaves
Mint is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a helpful remedy for throat soreness. Mix one tablespoon of crushed mint, a quarter teaspoon of sugar, and a tablespoon of vinegar in water and gargle to reduce pain and swelling.
Turmeric
Adding half a teaspoon of turmeric and salt to a cup of water makes an excellent gargling solution for sore throats. Turmeric not only alleviates soreness but also protects the body against several diseases.
Tea
Green tea, lemon tea, or tea infused with turmeric can effectively combat throat soreness. Adding honey to the tea amplifies its healing effects. The warmth of regular tea also helps reduce throat discomfort.
Hot Spices
Soups made with a blend of hot spices or chicken corn soup are particularly beneficial for soothing throat inflammation.
Cloves
Grind 2-3 cloves, mix them in water and use this for gargling. Cloves provide relief and eliminate throat soreness.
Licorice Root
Mix a few drops of licorice extract in a cup of water for gargling. This remedy is excellent for throat problems and also helps alleviate cough.
These natural remedies are not only effective but also easily accessible, making them an ideal solution for managing throat soreness and inflammation during seasonal transitions.
