Are you suffering from severe pain or irritation in your throat? If yes, then you must not ignore these signs as this could be the symptoms of a sore throat which may get worse if not treated in the initial stage. Sore throat is a condition that occurs due to your body’s immune response to viral or bacterial infections. This condition causes the inflammation of mucous membranes in your throat region. Have a look at these effective home remedies for sore throat in general and during pregnancy.
Sore Throat During Pregnancy
It is natural that your immune system lowers a bit during pregnancy, and common ailments like sore throat can become quite tricky during this time. The most common reasons for sore throat during pregnancy includes viral infection, bacterial infection, strained throat muscles, pregnancy hormones, postnatal drips, allergic reactions, or acid reflux.
Given below are some of the home remedies for sore throat during pregnancy.
- Ginger tea
- Chamomile tea
- Saltwater gargle
- Steam inhalation
- Honey
Pregnant women should not drink sage tea or licorice tea for sore throat as it can lead to complications. However, it is always best to talk to an expert doctor before consuming the above-mentioned home remedies for sore throat.
Best Home Remedies For Sore Throat
Apple cider vinegar
Made from fermented apple juice, the main component in apple cider vinegar or ACV is acetic acid. This acid loosens the phlegm in your throat and eases the throat pain and irritation caused due to sore throat. It is a good source of nutrients such as vitamin C, biotin, pantothenic acid, niacin, vitamin C, vitamin B1, B2, and B6. This sour liquid also contains small amounts of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron.
The antioxidant and antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar makes it one of the best home remedies for a sore throat caused by bacterial infections. Inulin, a prebiotic present in apple cider vinegar improves your immune system by triggering the white blood cells and T cells production in your body.
Dilute around one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a single cup of water and gargle it. After that, take a small sip of this mixture, and repeat the whole process once or twice per hour. In between the gargling sections, make sure to drink a lot of water.
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Honey
This common household remedy works well in getting rid of the symptoms of sore throat. It has anti-inflammatory properties that lessen inflammation as well as soothes irritation within your internal glands, mucus membranes, and skin. Also, the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of honey help to fight against bacterial and viral infections.
Consume one or two tablespoons of honey directly or add it into a tea to get relief from the irritation caused by a sore throat. This is also an instant home remedy for cough.
Saltwater
Gargling with salt water before bedtime is one of the easiest and low-cost ways to soothe the symptoms of sore throat and prevent the infection from getting worse. Salt reduces the swelling by pulling water out of your throat tissue.
Mix one cup of warm water with a teaspoon of salt and stir well. Gargle with a mouthful of this solution for 30 seconds.
Peppermint
Menthol, the active content in peppermint, helps in melting the mucus and relieves the symptoms of sore throat. Peppermint also has proven anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, which may reduce swelling in your throat and encourage healing.
Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil in half a cup of warm water. Gargle for at least 30 seconds every 3 or 4 hours.
Sage
Sage is one of the most effective home remedies for sore throat. Its astringent, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties keep the symptoms of a sore throat at bay as well as prevents mouth inflammation.
Add two tablespoons of fresh sage leaves to one cup of almost boiling water. Cover it and keep it aside for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the mixture and add honey or lemon. Drink two or three cups of this tea a day.
Sage is also one of the effective home remedies for allergies.
Licorice
This traditional medicine has properties similar to that of aspirin. Licorice has both antiviral as well as antimicrobial properties which can ease the symptoms of sore throat.
Soak ground licorice in hot water for around 5 minutes and strain the mixture. You can also mix this along with hot water and gargle. Make sure not to consume more than 75 milligrams of this drink a day.
Home remedies could be the best solutions for minor health conditions such as the sore throat. However, if the throat pain persists for more than a week, seek medical help immediately. You can also consult a doctor online.
Sore Throat Remedies for Infants and Toddlers
It is quite challenging to manage babies with a sore throat. Before taking them to the hospital, consider following these home remedies.
- Ghee
- Mustard oil
- Breast milk
- Humidifier
- Soup/Broth