You must have felt that scratchy, burning feeling in your throat that makes it hard to talk, swallow, or even sleep. Whether it’s from a cold, allergies, or just dry air, sore throats can be uncomfortable.  However, there are plenty of remedies for sore throat you can try right at home. If you’re searching for how to soothe a sore throat naturally, you’re in the right place.

 

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10 Remedies to Fix Sore Throat

Here are 10  tips to soothe sore throat discomfort fast, using things you may already have in your kitchen.

 

1. Gargle with warm saltwater

This classic remedy is one of the oldest and most trusted natural remedies for sore throat, and it's safe, natural, and one of the most effective ways to soothe a sore throat quickly. Warm saltwater works by drawing moisture from swollen throat tissues and killing bacteria, which helps reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. You can gargle with warm saltwater 3 to 4 times a day.

• Heat a glass of water until it’s warm, but not hot. You should be able to comfortably sip it without burning your mouth.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the warm water.
• Take a sip of the saltwater about a mouthful and gargle the water in the back of your throat for about 30 seconds.
• Repeat this process 2 to 3 times, then discard any remaining saltwater.

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2. Drink a concoction of honey, tulsi, and warm water

This soothing drink is a time-tested favorite when it comes to remedies for sore throat. Honey and tulsi is packed with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help coat and calm an irritated throat. You can enjoy this herbal drink 2-3 times a day, especially in the morning and before bedtime to ease throat pain and reduce nighttime irritation.

• Heat 1 cup of water until it’s warm.
• Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey until fully dissolved.
• Sip slowly while the drink is still warm.

 

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3. Try steam inhalation to clear the windpipe

Steam inhalation is a gentle and effective way to soothe a sore throat, especially when it feels dry, tight, or irritated. It also helps open up your sinuses. Breathing in warm steam helps hydrate the throat and loosen mucus, making it easier to breathe and speak. It’s also one of the best natural remedies for sore throat caused by congestion or dryness.

• Boil water and pour it carefully into a heat-safe bowl.
• In hot water, add 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil. Position your face over the bowl, keeping a safe distance to avoid burning your skin.
• Drape a towel over your head and the bowl to trap the steam.
• Close your eyes, and breathe in deeply through your nose and mouth for about 5-10 minutes.

 

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4. Have herbal teas to soothe throat pain

When it comes to natural remedies for sore throat, herbal teas are a comforting go-to. The herbs mentioned below not only help reduce inflammation but also act as natural lubricants for the throat.

• Chamomile: Calming, anti-inflammatory, and soothing to irritated tissues.
• Licorice root: Known as mulaithi, it is an excellent option to reduce swelling and act as a gentle throat coating.
• Peppermint: This herb is well known for its ability to freshen the breath. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and some antibacterial and antiviral qualities

Choose one herb or a mix. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. After this, strain and sip slowly while warm. Drink 2-3 cups a day to help ease throat pain and support healing.

 

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5. Drink ginger and lemon tea

This duo is a powerful combo for fighting infection and calming irritation. As we know, ginger is naturally anti-inflammatory and helps boost circulation. And, lemon is rich in vitamin C and helps cut through mucus.

• Peel and slice a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger.
• Boil in a cup of water for 5-10 minutes.
• Strain, and add the juice of half a lemon.

Optional: Stir in a teaspoon of honey for extra throat relief.

 

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6. Sip  water to moisten the throat

Hydration is key in almost all remedies for sore throat. Stick to warm or room-temperature drinks, and avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can dehydrate your body. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Drinking plenty of fluids helps in keeping the throat moist, flushing out toxins and also helps speed up recovery

 

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7. Savour warm garlic soup

Garlic has natural antibacterial properties as well. It contains allicin, a compound known for its ability to fight off viral infections. This nourishing soup is a tasty and powerful home remedy for cold symptoms and sore throat.

• Sauté 2-3 cloves of minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
• Add 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth.
• Simmer for 10-15 minutes. 
• Add herbs like thyme or parsley, and drink warm.

 

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8. Apple cider vinegar drink is effective

ACV is known for its ability to balance pH and kill germs, making it a great sore throat remedy. It’s a surprisingly effective herbal drink to soothe your throat and boost your immune defenses. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of honey into 1 cup of warm water. Stir well and sip slowly. 
Caution: Too much consumption of ACV can erode tooth enamel causing more cavities. 

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9. Use a Humidifier

Dry indoor air can worsen a sore throat, especially during winter or in air-conditioned rooms. Using a humidifier adds moisture back into the air, which helps:

• Prevent dryness
• Keep your throat and nasal passages from getting irritated
• Improve overall comfort while you sleep
• Clean your humidifier regularly to avoid mold or bacteria build-up.

 

Related story: Five Antioxidant-rich Floral Teas You Must Try This Winter

 

10. Rest your voice 

Your vocal cords need a break when your throat is sore. Talking too much can strain your voice even more. Rest is one of the simplest yet most important actionable tips to soothe sore throat discomfort. Speak only when necessary and write down to communicate. 

 

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Whether you’re dealing with cold, seasonal allergies, or just dry air, these remedies for sore throat are easy, natural, and actually help. Keep these actionable tips to soothe sore throat handy the next time your voice starts fading. From herbs to soothe sore throat to cosy herbal drinks, you’ve got plenty of ways to feel better fast without rushing to the pharmacy.

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.