A sore throat is described as an irritation, scratchiness, or burning pain felt on the throat. Other symptoms of sore throat may depend on the cause. They include feeling painful or scratchy sensations on the throat, experiencing pain and difficulties after swallowing when eating or drinking, having swollen and red tonsils, and speaking with a hoarse or muffled voice. Having a sore throat can be an overall uncomfortable experience.
There are many reasons for sore throat. One of the most common causes is a viral infection. In addition, sore throat can happen when a person has a cold or the flu. Most of the time, a sore throat due to a viral infection resolves on its own. Another cause of sore throat can be a bacterial infection like a streptococcal infection. This type of sore throat requires medications such as antibiotics to avoid further possible complications.
Whether it is through a viral or bacterial infection, one can try several home remedies to alleviate the pain and discomfort felt due to a sore throat. Below are some of the natural home remedies for sore throat that one can try at home:
Saltwater Gargle
Saltwater gargle is one of the most practiced home remedies for sore throat. While gargling with salt water may not necessarily relieve the pain and discomfort of a sore throat, it is an effective way to ease the aching sensations of the throat. Saltwater gargle has many potential benefits, including eliminating and killing the bacteria in the throat. It can also loosen the mucus and secretions (if any), reduce the swelling, and soothe the pain when used a couple of times.
To make a saltwater solution for gargling, prepare a half teaspoon of salt and add it to a full glass of warm water (approximately 8 ounces). Mix well until the salt dissolves in the water. Then, use the salt water solution and gargle it, but do not swallow it. It is recommended to use a saltwater gargle at least once an hour. Do note that it is not advisable to let children try a saltwater gargle if they have a sore throat.
