Natural Remedies for Sore Throat

What are the best natural remedies for sore throat that work?

Below is a detailed list of all the best herbs and minrals that can shorten the duration of throat soreness and reduce pain. Most sore throat cases are caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Others may experience throat soreness from allergies (hayfever).

Using herbal remedies and supplements are the best way to manage symptoms of a sore throat.

If you wants answers to frequently asked questions on sore throat, see our detailed article entitled Sore Throat.

Natural Remedies for Sore Throat

Natural Remedy	What experts say about these natural remedies for sore throat
	For a quick list only, see our article Sore Throat.
Zinc (Lozenges)	(What's this?) Zinc lozenges relieve the symptoms of a sore throat due to the common cold and flu. Dose: Use lozenges containing 13 to 25 mg of zinc gluconate or acetate. Allow one lozenge to dissolve in the mouth every 2 hours while awake. Start taking the lozenges at the first signs of throat soreness. A commonly reported but mild side effect from using the lozenge is a bad taste in the mouth. Note: Stick with zinc gluconate or acetate; most research studies were done with this form.
Sage	Sage shows antiviral activities in animal and lab studies. Mouthwash containing sage is shown to reduce the pain from sore throat. It is popularly used in Europe for treating mouth and throat inflammation. The German Commission E approves its use for sore throat. A recent well-designed clinical study showed that echinacea and sage combination was as effective as using a prescription solution containing chlorhexidine and lidocaine. Dose: Infusion - Use 3 grams of the herb in 150 mL of water or use 3 drops of the essential oil in 100 mL of warm water. Gargle up to three times daily or as often as needed to get relief from sore throat.
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)	Slippery elm lozenges seem to help treat the pain from a sore throat. It is a demulcent that soothes and protects an irritated mucous membrane. Dose: As a lozenge, follow manufacturer's direction. A typical lozenge contains about 150 mg of slippery elm.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)	Helpful Ginger is well known for helping with nausea and vomiting in motion sickness. Ginger will also help treat sore throat and pain. Dose: Take 500 mg or use the tea formulation. Use up to four times daily as needed. Click here to see other dosages.
Apple Cider Vinegar	Helpful Gargle a solution made with 5 mL (1 teaspoon) of apple cider vinegar in a cup (250 mL) of warm water.
Cinnamon Bark	Helpful This bark may reduce inflammation in the throat and may provide good relief from pain. Dose: Use mouthwash containing cinnamon bark or the oil. Use as directed by the manufacturer.

How do you prevent sore throat and what are some home remedies tips?

See the article Sore Throat to get answers to some of the commonly asked questions about this painful health condition.

What about boosting the immune system? Will that help?

Supporting your immune system is another way to help fight off throat soreness caused by bacterial or viral infections. See which remedies you can use that are immune system boosters!

Related Articles and Resources on Natural Remedies for Sore Throat

Get Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Sore Throat

Zinc lozenges - More than just for the common cold

Echinacea - The ultimate immune system booster?

Return to Health Conditions List

References for Natural Remedies for Sore Throat
Created: May 29, 2010

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