10 easy and soothing remedies for a sore throat

Regardless of the cause, a sore throat is never enjoyable. You have probably tried many remedies but none have relieved the pain fast enough. Here are 10 other easy, non-prescription options to try next time your throat feels sore or scratchy.

1. Try eating marshmallows

• Sap from marshmallow plants has been used for hundreds of years to treat sore throats and colds. Plus, according to anecdotal reports, modern-day marshmallows also help ease sore throat pain. If your throat is really swollen, the slippery and sweet marshmallow gelatine helps to coat and soothe the throat.

2. Reduce swelling with anti-inflammatories

• Anti-inflammatories are a very effective relief for your throat. Plus, you likely already have some in your medicine cabinet. They will help to reduce swelling with your sore throat to cope with the discomfort and pain.

3. Classic saltwater gargle

• The saltwater gargle: terrible taste but incredibly effective. Several studies have found that if you gargle warm salt water a few times a day it will reduce the swelling in your throat and loosen mucus, which will also flush out bacteria. Just remember to gargle and spit, rather than swallowing the water!

4. Drink plenty of fluids

• It may seem obvious but it’s essential to stay hydrated. Despite the pain of swallowing liquid/water, it will help keep your mucous membranes moist and better able to combat bacteria and therefore fight against your cold. Whether it’s a cup of tea or a glass of water, it will greatly soothe your sore throat.

5. Buy a new toothbrush

• If you’re constantly falling ill with a sore throat, buy a new toothbrush. Bacteria gathers on the bristles and if you injure your gums brushing, the bacteria can re-infect you.

6. Non-prescription lozenges and sprays 

• Sucking on cough drops stimulates saliva production, which can help keep your throat moisten. Try finding ones with added benefits like numbing or cooling ingredients. Likewise, over-the-counter sprays can help temporarily alleviate the pain by numbing the lining of the throat.

7. Try cough syrup

• Despite the horrid taste, cough syrups also help ease soreness in your throat. They coat your throat and provide temporary pain relief. Be sure it is a non-drowsy formula if taken during the daytime!

8. Eat chicken soup

• The age-old remedy for colds can help soothe your irritated throat too. Allegedly, the sodium in the soup has anti-inflammatory properties that can help your throat feel better. Plus, soup is a great option to eat when eating anything with your swollen throat is painful and difficult.

9. Warm heating pad 

• Wrap a warm heating pad, hot water bottle or warm damp cloth around your throat to soothe your throat pain. Pair this remedy with a soothing treatment from the inside of your throat such as warm tea or lozenges.

10. Use humidifiers

• Warm or cool mist in the air from a humidifier can help soothe your throat. Adding moisture to the air can help your throat from becoming too dry. Or if you don’t have a humidifier, a steam treatment with warm water and a dishtowel can help. For instance, pour hot water into a large bowl and drape a dishtowel over your head. Breathe deeply through your mouth and nose for 5-10 minutes over the steam issuing from the bowl.

Have you tried any of these remedies? Which one(s) worked for you? Do you have any other suggestions to help alleviate a sore throat? Share with us below.