5 Everyday Things To Treat a Sore Throat

One of the most unpleasant parts of dealing with a cold is the accompanying sore throat. While pain killers can help lessen the irritation, they aren’t a natural solution. Here are five healthy, everyday items that can help ease your sore throat:

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1. Zinc

Take one zinc lozenge every two hours until your sore throat is gone – but never for longer than a week. In one study, people who sucked on a lozenge containing about 13 milligrams of zinc every two hours got rid of viral sore throats three to four days quicker than those who didn’t. But too much zinc can actually compromise immunity, which is why you shouldn’t take the lozenges for a long time.

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2. Vitamin C

Take 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C three times a day. Whether your sore throat is caused by a cold, the flu, or strep, this vitamin will help boost your immune system and fight off infection. Reduce the dose if you develop diarrhea.

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3. Echinacea

Take 200 milligrams of echinacea in capsule form four times a day. This herb’s antibacterial and antiviral properties will speed healing. Make sure the echinacea you buy is standardized to 3.5% echinacosides.

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4. Garlic

As another aid to fight off infection, take 400 to 600 milligrams of garlic in capsule form, four times a day. Dried garlic has potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Take the capsules with food.

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5. Honey

Honey has long been used as a sore-throat remedy. It has antibacterial properties, which can help speed healing. It also acts as a hypertonic osmotic, which means that it draws water out of inflamed tissue. This reduces the swelling and discomfort. Add several teaspoons to 1 cup of hot water or herbal tea. Hot lemonade with honey can also relieve pain. Combine the juice of half a lemon with hot water.

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