Botanic Remedies for Sore Throats
As cold weather persists, sore throats become a more common occurrence. Itching, tightness, and irritation are just a few of the symptoms of a sore throat, and can prevent those afflicted from getting a good night’s sleep, concentrating during the day, and even swallowing food and drinks. Many do not feel that a simple sore throat is enough to warrant a visit to the doctor, especially as the global pandemic continues, and are looking for natural solutions for long-term relief from this common affliction. Advanced Biotech takes a look at botanic ingredients that are giving consumers the natural relief they’re looking for this cold and flu season.
Honey
Honey mixed with warm tea, in particular ginger or lemon tea, or taken on its own is a classic household remedy for sore throats. Honey has natural antibiotic properties that allows it to naturally heal wounds, and can also kill bacteria, helping to fight off colds. It is also a natural humectant, meaning that it does well to bring moisture to dry areas – like an irritated throat, and coat inflamed surfaces, which also do well to cure a persistent cough. Mix one to two tablespoons of honey in warm water to dissolve and drink as needed.
Chamomile
Chamomile, most commonly found in tea, is well known for its soothing properties and for its naturally occurring anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It is also said that inhaling diffused chamomile oil may also relieve the symptoms of a cold, including a sore throat. Drinking chamomile tea or inhaling chamomile vapors may stimulate the immune system and help to fight off cold-causing bacteria. Try this floral and mildly sweet botanic before bedtime to promote a more restful sleep.
Peppermint
While most commonly known as a natural breath freshener, the menthol in peppermint also works to thin mucus and naturally soothe sore throats and coughs. Peppermint also has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, which may also help to fight off viruses and colds. Drinking warm peppermint tea or diluting peppermint oil with water and a carrier oil like almond or coconut oil may help to soothe throat irritation. Inhaling diffused peppermint oil has also been shown to have similar effects while also working to open up congested air passages.
Sore throats can certainly be a disruption to everyday lives. Health-conscious consumers or those sensitive to over the counter medications will appreciate these natural pain relievers. Generally inexpensive, all-natural, and often already in consumers’ pantries, these solutions are child-friendly and taste great, too!