It just happens from time to time. You feel the scratchiness and next thing you know you have a sore throat. When this happens, most commonly it’s your body’s immune response to bacterial and viral infections. The discomfort is due to the mucus membranes in your throat being swollen and inflamed. Well, that’s all fine and good, you say. How do you get relief?

First and foremost, stay hydrated. Keeping your mucus membranes moist will help them heal. Sipping on an herbal tea is also a good way to stay hydrated.

The following are a few natural remedies you can try to soothe the pain while your body heals.

Herbal Soothers

Slippery Elm

Native to North America, the slippery elm tree grows from southern Quebec to northern Florida along the east coast. The inner bark of the tree is the area where the slippery elm is harvested. In traditional Native American medicine the inner bark of the slippery elm is used to treat gastrointestinal ailments and for treating wounds. Furthermore, slippery elm is useful for supporting the immune system and is an ingredient in essiac tea.

The soluble fiber it contains dissolves in liquid to a gel-like substance called mucilage. This mucilage will coat the throat and esophagus offering temporary relief from the pain.

An elixir of slippery elm surfaced in the 1840’s when the physician Henry Thayer created it. The formula was first sold as an oral suspension and later as lozenges. Interestingly, Thayer’s Slippery Elm lozenges are still available today.

How to Use:  Herbalists recommend pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1/2 teaspoon of slippery elm powder. Stir, let it steep and allow to cool. Gargle with the mixture for pain relief. You can also drink the tea as it soothes an inflamed gastrointestinal system.

By the way, folklore says slippery elm can cause miscarriage when inserted in the cervix. So please avoid slippery elm if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. There’s also the chance it may decrease the effectiveness of some medications due to its absorption properties. Best to wait a hour or so after taking medications to take slippery elm.

Sage

Sage tea is an excellent tonic for sore throats due to its antibiotic and antiseptic properties. Additionally, sage can calm nerves and stimulate your brain. And if that weren’t enough, Sage’s antispasmodic action reduces tension in muscles, and can even be used in a steam inhalation for asthma attacks. But, back to your sore throat. A simple sage tea can be brewed and used as a gargle or sipped as a tea.

How to Use: Take a few sage leaves and pour boiling water over. (You can also use a teaspoon of ground sage for a tea.) Steep the tea for 10-15 minutes. Strain and allow to cool before gargling. For taking as a tea you can add a little honey and lemon for taste. Honey and lemon are both good for healing as well. Local honey is immunomodulating, antimicrobial and soothing. Lemon will give you that extra Vitamin C boost you need while healing.

Also, if you’ve ever used a sore throat spray you may want to consider a sage and echinacea spray. Studies suggest that using every 2 hours was found to be as effective as a store bought medicated spray. Just keep in mind, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid sage supplements.

By the way, sage is incredibly easy to grow in your garden. It has beautiful silvery green leaves and is extremely drought resistant and hardy. You can also cultivate the leaves for culinary and medicinal purposes year round. Once it’s established avoid overwatering.

Echinacea

Native to North America, echinacea has been used and valued by Native American tribes for at least 400 years as a treatment for sore throats, coughs and tonsillitis. The primary part of the plant used for these purposes is the upper part (flowers, stems and petals). The root of echinacea is also used for its antiseptic properties.

Ginger

One of gingers many uses includes relief from cold and flu symptoms. Being that ginger has diffusive and stimulating properties it’s excellent for getting congestion and mucus moving. For chest congestion, you can make a poultice with ginger and lay it over your chest for relief. You’ll find ginger is a warming herb which is helpful for warming you up when you get shivers and chills associated with the flu & cold. (1)

For sore throat pain your best bet is making a tea with grated ginger, lemon and honey. Simply grate about a teaspoon of fresh ginger and pour hot boiling water over it. Steep for about 10-15 minutes. Then add a little honey and a squeeze of lemon juice and enjoy. Again, honey has antibacterial properties and lemon gives a Vitamin C boost. It’s recommended to drink this tea three or four times a day to soothe your throat, reduce coughing and relieve congestion.

Related: Alleviate Nausea & Pain With Ginger

Essential Oils for a Sore Throat

Essential oils can offer great relief for sore throat pain. The following essential oils are a few to try.

• Juniper Berry
• Thyme
• Hyssop
• Clove*
• Oregano
• Eucalyptus
• Lemon
• Peppermint

Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as warmed coconut or sweet almond oil, and apply directly to the outside of the throat, gently massaging the area to help with absorption. It is recommended you start with 1 or 2 drops before increasing the dose.

*Note: Clove essential oil is very hot. Don’t use directly on your skin. Always dilute with a carrier oil.

If you found this article useful you may also like:

• Bay Leaf – A Savory Herb With Impressive Health Benefits
• DIY Herbal Mouthwash With Essential Oils
• How to Improve Blood Circulation With Natures Herbal Heroes
• Eucalyptus Oil for Cold and Flu Season
• Rosemary, Dew of the Sea
• Save Money by Making Your Own Household Cleaning Products

Disclaimers:

The use of essential oils and herbs are a time-honored approach to bolstering and strengthening the body and as a natural, chemical free way to treat disease. Always keep in mind that herbs can trigger side effects and interact with supplements, medications or other herbs,. Herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a qualified herbalist or doctor well versed in the field of botanical medicine. Also, keep in mind that essential oils can trigger side effects and skin irritations.

I am not a doctor and do not claim to be. I am a seeker of pure, healthful living. Always talk with your doctor or qualified health care professional before taking any remedies mentioned in this article to ensure safety, especially if you are already on medications. The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. None of these statements are intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always consult with your medical practitioner or other qualified healthcare provider.