Frog in your throat? Feeling that ever familiar tickle of that sore throat coming on? Never fear, natural homemade remedies are here! A sore throat can be indicative of a cold or flu coming on, and it is often one of the first symptoms we experience.
If you are able to make yourself a home remedy that can soothe the throat and boost that immune system, you might be able to avoid coming down with a full blown cold. So give these great natural home-made remedies a go this winter!
Sweeten up with Honey, Ginger and Lemon
It’s an oldie but a goodie – a honey, ginger and lemon drink really works! Any old honey will do, but if you can get Manuka honey, this will contain added antimicrobial factors which will not only help soothe the throat but also help the immune system fight off any bugs that might be lurking in your throat. The lemon is a great source of vitamin C, and helps to reduce any mucous present. The ginger will help to reduce inflammation in the throat, boost your circulation and warm up your body as well.
Directions – Mix 1 tsp honey, with ½ squeezed lemon and 1 tsp grated ginger in a cup with boiling water. Mix well. Option: Add 1 clove of crush garlic for added anti-microbial properties, or a teaspoon cayenne pepper for an added kick.
Thanks Nanna
Your grandmother probably told you about the age old remedy of gargling salty water. The salt in the water helps to clear any mucous and help reduce the swelling in the throat. But here’s a new spin on it – next time add some turmeric into the mix. The turmeric will help to reduce the inflammation in the throat and form a nice soothing coat on the mucous membranes of the throat.
Directions – Add ½ tsp Tumeric and Salt to a cup of warm water, gargle for 30 seconds to one minute and then spit out liquid. Repeat until cup water finished.
Tea Time! Herbal teas can be the saviour of a sore throat. The following can be utilised on their own or taken together if you would like to make your own mix!
- Licorice root – This herb will form a soothing coating over the throat. It may also help to reduce the inflammation present and support your nervous system. Directions - Boil up 1-2 teaspoons of the root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes and enjoy with a little honey. Note: Do not consume Licorice root tea if you have blood pressure issues. Consult your doctor first.
- Marshmallow root - (We aren’t talking about the fluffy pink and white variety here!) Similarly to Licorice root, Marshmallow root can help to form a soothing film over the mucous membranes of the throat and may also support the digestive system. Directions - Boil up 1-2 teaspoons of the root in 1 cup water for 10 minutes and enjoy with a little honey.
- Sage – The fresh leaves of the sage plant can be used to make tea. These leaves contain antimicrobial properties which may help to wash away any nasty bugs or mucous in the throat. Directions – Place 5-6 fresh sage leaves in a cup, allow to steep, covered, in a cup of boiling water for a few minutes before drinking.
- Flu Brew – A good old naturopathic classic, it will help to clear the bugs right out and keep you warm this winter. Check out the recipe here.
Apples and Oranges Apple Cider Vinegar is another excellent agent to help keep you well over this winter period. Add in some honey and ginger and you have a double whammy with a bit of soothing to boot. The Apple cider vinegar will also aid digestion if you have any digestive issues.
Directions – Add 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey and 1 teaspoon grated ginger to 1 cup warm water and drink or gargle.
Chew-Chew-Chew …on some cloves! Sounds kinda strange, but chewing on the cloves will help to release the volatile essential oils present in the herb which are able to numb the throat. Which means for a little while, you won’t be able to feel that sore throat!! The oils present in the cloves are also antibacterial.
Directions – Suck on 1-2 cloves at a time until they become soft, and then chew on them like you were chewing gum for a few minutes. You can swallow them afterwards if you like.
Rest, and Drink up! Sounds really simple but slowing down and allowing your body to rest is one of the best things you can possibly do to give your body the energy it needs to fight off any cold or flu that might be trying to get you. Keeping up your fluids in the form of water or tea will also help to flush out any bugs that are hanging around in your system.
Directions – Keep warm, get yourself a good book, television show or movie, put on the fire, grab a blanket, wear a scarf and curl up and relax. Take some time out and give yourself the best chance at kicking this bug. Feel better soon!!!
Just a little note…. If you’re sore throat is still lingering after a few days, make sure you go and have a check-up with your doctor.
