5 Natural Herbs for Sore Throat Relief That Actually Work
Sage • Honeysuckle Flowers • Slippery Elm • Marshmallow • Licorice • More ...
Having a sore throat is no fun at all. I always feel a bit grouchy when I have a sore throat. If you're looking for natural herbs for sore throat relief, you've come to the right place. I’ve come across 5 herbs to help a sore throat and thought I’d share them with you. Maybe you’ll find something about an herb you’ve overlooked in the past. These time-tested remedies can offer soothing comfort without the harsh chemicals found in some over-the-counter options.
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when dealing with a scratchy throat:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and herbal teas.
- Gargle with warm salt water several times a day.
- Rest your voice as much as possible.
- Use a humidifier to keep the air moist.
5. Sage
My mom uses a throat spray that contains sage, which is known for its antibacterial properties. You can learn more about the benefits of sage at Healthline. Be sure to only use a spray that is designed for use in the throat. Other types can greatly irritate your throat, instead of making it better. Sage tea is also a wonderful way to enjoy this herb's soothing effects.
4. Honeysuckle Flowers
These are hard to find, unless you live near a Chinese herbal store or can buy them online. Take one cup of the dried flowers and steep in a quart of boiling water. Let the steeping take place for 10 minutes and be sure to cover the container the flowers and water are in. Strain out the flowers and drink the tea. This traditional remedy has been used for centuries to clear heat and toxins from the body.
3. Slippery Elm
The inner bark of the tree is used and mixed with water. This inner portion contains mucilage that coats the throat. Of course, once the throat is coated, irritation is reduced. I’ve found lozenges that contain slippery elm to be the most effective. For more detailed information on how it works, check out this guide from Mount Sinai.
2. Marshmallow
Now, I’m not talking about the cute little puffs of fluff that you buy in the baking section at the grocery store. Marshmallow is an herb that also contains mucilage (similar to slippery elm) and the roots are used in teas. Drinking three cups a day of this herbal tea will greatly help your sore throat. It provides a protective layer that helps soothe inflamed tissues.
1. Licorice
Sucking on a Twizzler won’t do the trick, you’ll need the actual herb licorice to get any relief. I have tea that is made from licorice and it is actually called Throat Comfort. You can find more about licorice root from the NCCIH. If you have high blood pressure, then it’s best not to consume tons of licorice. It is known to increase blood pressure and cause headaches when used in excess.
| Herb | Primary Benefit | Best Way to Use | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Sage | Antibacterial & Anti-inflammatory | Throat spray or tea | | Slippery Elm | Coats and soothes the throat | Lozenges or tea | | Licorice Root | Reduces irritation and pain | Herbal tea |Did you know that these herbs help you get rid of your sore throat? What do you usually do for your throat when it’s feeling sore? I’ve used these herbs for not only myself, but also for my family. I’ve even suggested them to friends and they still use them when necessary. Embracing natural remedies can be a game-changer for your seasonal health routine.