A sore throat and cough are common symptoms of a cold or flu. While there is no cure for the common cold, there are a number of things you can do to relieve your symptoms. Some of the most effective natural remedies for sore throat and cough include:
- Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that honey was more effective than cough suppressants in reducing the frequency and severity of coughs in children.
- Lemon: Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, which is an important nutrient for immune system health. Vitamin C can help to reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.
- Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that ginger was effective in reducing the severity of sore throats in people with colds.
- Garlic: Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help to fight off infections. A study published in the journal The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that garlic was effective in reducing the risk of colds and flu.
- Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. A study published in the journal The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that turmeric was effective in reducing the severity of sore throats in people with colds.
- Marshmallows: Marshmallows are a good source of mucilage, which is a thick, sticky substance that can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
- Slippery elm: Slippery elm is a type of tree bark that has been used for centuries to treat sore throats and coughs. Slippery elm contains mucilage, which can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
- Licorice root: Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. A study published in the journal The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that licorice root was effective in reducing the severity of sore throats in people with colds.
- Thyme: Thyme has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help to fight off infections. A study published in the journal The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that thyme was effective in reducing the severity of sore throats in people with colds.
- Echinacea: Echinacea is a type of herb that has been used for centuries to treat colds and flu. Echinacea has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help to fight off infections. A study published in the journal The Journal of the American Medical Association found that echinacea was effective in reducing the risk of colds and flu.
There are a number of ways to use natural remedies for sore throat and cough. Some of the most popular methods include:
- Drinking hot tea: Hot tea can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. You can add honey, lemon, ginger, or other natural remedies to your tea to make it more effective.
- Gargling with salt water: Gargling with salt water can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in the throat. To make a salt water gargle, mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Gargle for 30 seconds, then spit out the water.
- Taking a hot bath: A hot bath can help to relax your muscles and reduce inflammation in the throat. You can add essential oils, such as eucalyptus or peppermint, to your bath to help relieve congestion and coughing.
- Using a humidifier: A humidifier can help to add moisture to the air, which can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing.
- Getting plenty of rest: Rest is important for allowing your body to heal from a cold or flu. Make sure to get plenty of rest so that your immune system can fight off the infection.
If your sore throat and cough are severe, or if you have other symptoms such as fever, chills, or shortness of breath, it is important to see a doctor. These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
There are a number of natural remedies that can help to relieve the symptoms of a sore throat and cough. If you are looking for a natural way to treat your symptoms, be sure to talk to your doctor about the best options for you.
