5 Natural Gargle Remedies for A Sore Throat
Sore throats just make us want to cry: Our favorite foods suddenly grow spikes and drinks spew flames. The mere act of swallowing becomes dreaded. Simply, sore throats are an inflammation of the pharynx – the tube that extends from the back of the mouth to the esophagus – and generally are the result of either a viral infection, like colds or the flu, or a bacterial infection. Many times, the right gargle of all-natural, time-tested cures can draw the infection right out, and bring you back to your beloved foods – and life.
If your sore throat persists, you should seek professional guidance – as it could be a sign of a more serious illness. In the meantime, see if one of the following gargles provides you the panacea your throat so desperately desires:
Gargle with Cayenne We’ve had a lot of success with this one! Add 5 shakes of organic cayenne pepper powder to a cup of hot water (or you can use herbal tea, saltwater or lemon juice) and gargle every 15 minutes with the spicy elixir, until your sore throat has subsided. You can swallow a tiny bit of the mixture each time. This will undoubtedly burn, but that’s why it works so well.
Gargle with Sage Capitalize on this curative herb, and then later you can make candied sage – and enjoy it! Mix 1 teaspoon fresh or dried sage leaves in 1 cup boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes, then strain. Add 1 teaspoon each cider vinegar and honey, then gargle four times a day.
Gargle with Ginger Simmer 1 tablespoon grated fresh organic ginger root or ginger powder in a cup of warm water for ten minutes. Strain the liquid and add a teaspoon of honey and/or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Use this as a gargle every 30 minutes until your throat feels up to par.
Gargle with Warm Saltwater Saltwater all on its own cuts phlegm and reduces inflammation. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt to a cup of very warm water. And gargle it every couple of hours.
Gargle with Turmeric Another herb to be reckoned with, try this gargle to calm your cranky throat. Mix together 1 cup of hot water, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gargle with the mixture twice a day. Be careful – turmeric will stain.
image: dotbenjamin
