The best foods to eat for a sore throat are foods that kill streptococcus and include raw fruits. Raw fruits with their enzyme-containing leaves are very helpful in dealing with strep throats.
Are you having sore throat and have a hard time swallowing? Then here is some good news for you. A new study has found that different foods that are rich in vitamin C can help prevent and treat the common disease.
Vitamin C deficiency is common in people who have strep throat. Because of this, it’s important to treat this deficiency. So if you do have strep throat, take extra vitamin C.
vitamins for strep throat
If you are suffering from strep throat the first thing you should do is to consult your doctor. As he or she is the one who will know how bad your condition is, and what type of treatment should be found.
Tons of people get strep throat every year. No one is immune to the infection. It is caused by the growth of a bacterium known as Streptococcus Pneumoniae. If you are nursing a baby make sure he does not have a sore throat because this bacteria can be fatal to them if it spreads into their lungs.
Some foods that have been shown to have antimicrobial effects include:
sore throat vitamin deficiency
A sore throat can be very uncomfortable. The main symptoms are pain and irritation in the throat, especially when swallowing.
A sore throat occurs as part of the body’s immune response to viral or bacterial infections.
The natural immune response leads to inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes in the throat.
However, several natural remedies may provide relief, including some that are supported by scientific evidence.
Here are 15 natural sore throat remedies.
- Marshmallow root
A person can choose from a variety of natural remedies to help soothe a sore throat.
People have used extracts from the marshmallow plant, Althaea officinalis, to treat sore throats and other conditions since ancient times.
Its root contains a gelatin-like substance called mucilage that coats and lubricates the throat when a person swallows it.
Researchers have tested lozenges containing marshmallow root in animals and found them to be effective and nontoxic, even at very high doses. It may also help soothe a dry cough (1, 2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).
Marshmallow root infusion
Here is a recipe for a cold marshmallow root infusion to soothe a painful throat:
Ingredients:
1 liter (l) of cold water
1 ounce, or 28 grams (g), of dried marshmallow root
Directions:
Fill a jar with the cold water.
Place the marshmallow root in cheesecloth and tie it up in a bundle.
Lower the bundle into the water until it is completely submerged.
Place the tied end of the bundle over the lip of the jar, place the lid on the jar, and screw it on.
Infuse overnight, or for at least 8 hours, then remove the bundle.
Pour the desired amount into a glass. Add an optional sweetener of choice.
When it is ready, take sips throughout the day to help reduce symptoms.
Choosing high quality dried marshmallow root from a reliable source is important.
Bottom line: Marshmallow has a long history of use for treating sore throats. Its root contains a gelatinous substance, called mucilage, which coats and soothes the throat.
- Sage and echinacea
Sage is a popular herb in cooking, but it also has several medicinal uses.
Sage, also called Salvia officinalis, originated in the Mediterranean. Now, people grow it around the world.
Sage may help with many inflammatory conditions, and controlled studies suggest that it can help relieve throat pain (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
In one study, a sage-echinacea spray was slightly more effective at reducing throat pain than a chlorhexidine lidocaine spray. Neither treatment caused any negative side effects (7Trusted Source).
Echinacea is another herb that people use in traditional medicine. It can fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, and help treat respiratory conditions (8Trusted Source).
Sage-echinacea throat spray
Follow this recipe to make sage-echinacea throat spray at home:
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon (tsp) of ground sage
1 tsp of ground echinacea
1/2 cup of water
Directions:
Boil the water.
Place the sage and echinacea in a small jar, then fill it with boiling water.
Let it steep for 30 minutes.
Pour the mixture through a strainer. Add 1/2 cup of hard liquor if desired.
Place the mixture in a small spray bottle and spray into the throat every 2 hours or as needed.
Bottom line: Research suggests that a sage-echinacea spray can help relieve a sore throat as effectively as antiseptic medication spray.
- Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural health tonic. It has been a staple in folk medicine remedies for centuries. Its main active ingredient, acetic acid, helps fight bacteria.
The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, prescribed a combination of apple cider vinegar and honey, called oxymel, to treat flu symptoms, such as coughs and sore throats (9Trusted Source).
To help relieve throat pain, drink 1 cup of warm water mixed with 1 tablespoon (tbsp) of apple cider vinegar and 1 optional tbsp of honey.
The possible risks of apple cider vinegar include tooth decay and digestive problems. Learn more here.
People can find apple cider vinegar in supermarkets, health stores, and online.
Bottom line: Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties and, when a person mixes it in small amounts with warm water, could help relieve a sore throat.
- Saltwater gargle
Gargling with salt water is a well-known natural remedy to get rid of a sore throat.
The salt helps reduce swelling by pulling water out of the throat tissue. It may also help kill harmful microbes in the throat.
Combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 tsp of salt and stir to dissolve. Gargle with a mouthful of this mixture for 30 seconds once per hour.
Bottom line: Gargling hourly with warm salt water may help reduce swelling and ease throat discomfort.
- Honey
Honey is a sweetener that people often combine with other natural ingredients to soothe a sore throat.
People use honey as a medicine because it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects (10Trusted Source).
In addition to helping fight infection and providing pain relief, honey can also make certain remedies taste better.
Honey may be especially effective when a person combines it with warm water and apple cider vinegar or herbs. Some people choose to use raw honey or manuka honey.
However, children under the age of 1 should avoid honey. Their guts have not yet acquired healthy bacteria that can fight off some germs, such as botulism spores, that sometimes occur in honey.
Also, people who avoid sugar or follow a low carb diet may want to choose another remedy, since honey is a form of sugar. It contains 17.3 g of carbohydrates per tablespoon (11Trusted Source).
Bottom line: Honey can help relieve throat pain, particularly when a person combines it with vinegar or herbs in warm water. Never give honey to children under 1.
- Licorice root
The licorice plant, also called Glycyrrhiza glabra, is native to Europe and South Asia.
Best known for its sweet flavor, licorice also has uses in traditional medicine.
It has properties similar to aspirin that may help reduce sore throat pain. It also has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects (12).
However, there is no research into its ability to relieve illness-related sore throats.
That said, studies have reported that after surgery, licorice could significantly reduce throat pain due to breathing tube removal (13, 14).
One study found that gargling with licorice water before surgery reduced the risk of getting a sore throat by 50%, compared with gargling with sugar water (14).
To make licorice tea, combine ground licorice root with hot water, let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain it prior to drinking.
Licorice root tea is also available at natural grocery stores and online.
Bottom line: Drinking or gargling licorice tea may help soothe a sore throat.
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- Lemon water
Lemon water is a refreshing beverage that may also reduce the throat pain that occurs during a cold or flu.
Lemon contains vitamin C and other powerful antioxidants. These compounds fight inflammation and reduce oxidative stress, which are common markers of disease (15Trusted Source).
Lemon also increases the amount of saliva the body produces, which can help keep the mucous membranes moist.
Try combining lemon with warm water and a little honey or salt water to maximize its benefits.
Bottom line: Lemon water contains vitamin C and compounds that can soothe a sore throat and assist with healing.
- Ginger root tea
Ginger is a spice with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve throat pain.
Some laboratory studies have found that ginger extract can kill some bacteria and viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. It can also reduce inflammation in people with tuberculosis, which is a lung disease (16Trusted Source, 17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).
Ginger tea is available from most markets and online retailers. People can also make their own from fresh ginger.
Ginger root tea
Follow this recipe to make ginger root tea at home:
Ingredients:
fresh ginger root
1 l of water
1 tbsp (21 g) of honey or a sweetener of choice
a squeeze of lemon juice
Directions:
Peel the ginger root and grate it into a small bowl.
Boil the water in a large saucepan, then remove it from the heat.
Place 1 tbsp of grated ginger into the saucepan and cover it with a lid.
Let it steep for 10 minutes.
Add the sweetener and lemon juice, then stir to combine.
This tea works well reheated as needed or served cold.
Bottom line: Ginger root tea may help fight infection, reduce inflammation, and relieve sore throat pain.
- Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a versatile food with several health benefits.
Animal studies suggest that it may help fight infection and reduce inflammation in areas exposed to it (19, 20Trusted Source).
Coconut oil is also very soothing because it helps lubricate the mucous membranes in the throat.
Here are a few ideas to try:
Add a spoonful to hot tea or hot cocoa.
Add a spoonful to soup.
Put a spoonful in the mouth, allowing it to melt and coat the throat.
Read about some other ways to use coconut oil here.
Limit coconut oil consumption to about 2 tbsp (30 milliliters [ml]) per day, as it can have a laxative effect at higher dosages. When using coconut oil for the first time, start with 1 tsp (5 ml) at a time to minimize potential side effects.
Bottom line: Coconut oil is very soothing on the throat and may have anti-inflammatory effects. Take up to 2 tbsp (30 ml) per day alone or in warm beverages.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a fragrant and delicious spice with a high antioxidant content. It can also provide antibacterial benefits (21Trusted Source).
In Chinese medicine, cinnamon is a traditional remedy for colds, flus, and sore throats.
Cinnamon tea is available for purchase in most grocery stores, in both herbal and regular varieties, and online. People can also add cinnamon to herbal or black tea.
Another option is to make cinnamon almond milk, which may be especially soothing for a sore throat.
Cinnamon almond milk
Follow this recipe to make cinnamon almond milk at home:
Ingredients:
1 cup of almond milk
1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) of ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp (0.6 ml) of baking soda
1 tbsp (15 ml) of honey or a sweetener of choice
Directions:
Place the cinnamon and baking soda in a saucepan and mix together.
Add the almond milk and mix again until it is well combined.
Heat the mixture until it just begins to simmer, then remove it from the heat.
Stir in the honey or sweetener.
Bottom line: Cinnamon may help fight throat pain and infection due to a cold or flu. Try drinking cinnamon tea, or adding cinnamon to a warm beverage, to ease throat discomfort.
- Plenty of fluids
Although swallowing may be uncomfortable, drinking plenty of water or other fluids will ultimately make the throat feel better. It is important to keep the throat’s mucous membranes hydrated so that they can heal.
Drink tea, herbal infusions, water, or other beverages at whatever temperature feels most comfortable.
Bottom line: Staying hydrated, by drinking enough fluid through the day, will allow the throat to remain moist so that it can heal.
- Chicken soup
Chicken soup is a well-known natural cold and sore throat remedy. It is also a comfort food that allows people to get more fluids when they are sick.
Try adding garlic to the soup. Garlic contains bioactive compounds that can also provide benefits during times of illness (22Trusted Source).
A person can buy canned chicken soup ahead of time and store it until needed, or they can prepare a homemade chicken soup.
Bottom line: Chicken soup is a comfort food that may help soothe a sore throat. Adding garlic may provide additional benefits.
- Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea contains anti-inflammatory compounds and is very soothing to the throat. The mint may also slightly numb the throat, thereby relieving pain (23Trusted Source).
Peppermint tea is caffeine-free, and its naturally sweet taste often requires no additional sweetener.
There are many peppermint herbal teas in stores and online.
To make peppermint tea at home, steep fresh peppermint leaves in boiling water for 3–5 minutes, then strain off the leaves.
Bottom line: Peppermint tea is a tasty, refreshing beverage that may help reduce inflammation and throat discomfort.
- Chamomile tea
Chamomile is a daisy-like plant that people have used for medicinal purposes since ancient times.
Some research suggests that chamomile tea promotes restful sleep, which is important for healing (24Trusted Source).
Other studies have found that chamomile may help fight infection and reduce pain (25Trusted Source).
Chamomile tea has a pleasant, mild aroma and flavor. Like other herbal teas, chamomile contains no caffeine.
Chamomile tea is widely available at grocery stores and online.
Bottom line: Chamomile tea may promote restorative sleep, help fight infection, and soothe sore throat pain.
- Herbal lozenges
Teas, infusions, and other drinks are soothing and provide hydration, but sometimes sucking on a throat lozenge can also be comforting.
There are herbal throat lozenges available for purchase online and in some natural grocery stores. People can also make homemade throat lozenges with some of the herbs listed in this article.
Slippery elm is a popular herb for lozenges. It contains mucilage that coats and soothes the throat, similar to marshmallow root.
Try making lozenges ahead of time to have them on hand when a sore throat develops.
Bottom line: Purchase herbal throat lozenges or make a batch ahead of time to stay prepared for a sore throat.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications also can help ease a sore throat, including:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs relieve inflammation and sore throat pain without causing stomach discomfort. Two common types are ibuprofen and aspirin.
Sprays: Lidocaine sprays and other numbing throat sprays can effectively reduce throat pain.
Lozenges: Throat lozenges containing lidocaine or other types of numbing medicine can help soothe a sore throat.
Bottom line: Several medications — including NSAIDs, throat sprays, and lozenges — can provide relief from a sore throat. These are available in stores and online.
Take-home message
No matter how healthy a person is, everyone gets a sore throat occasionally.
However, there are many steps a person can take to soothe a sore throat and encourage healing.
Be sure to see a doctor if a sore throat lasts for longer than a few days or is extremely painful. Severe or persistent pain may indicate strep throat, tonsillitis, or another serious infection that requires medical treatment.
Several factors can cause a sore throat, such as illnesses, allergies, and acid reflux. Depending on the cause, people can use home remedies to help soothe sore throats.
A sore throat might feel scratchy or make it painful to swallow. This article explains some common causes of a sore throat, what people can do to ease it, and when to speak with a doctor.
Overview
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Causes of a sore throat include:
viruses, such as those that cause colds, flu, or COVID-19
streptococcal pharyngitis, or strep throat, a group A strep bacterial infection
allergies
acid reflux
smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC),Trusted Source viruses are the most common cause of sore throats.
A sore throat is usually nothing to worry about, but it can be uncomfortable.
However, people can try the following remedies at home to help to ease discomfort.
- Use lozenges
Lozenges are available over the counter (OTC) and can help to ease the symptoms of a sore throat.
They dissolve in the mouth, releasing ingredients that soothe a dry, irritated throat. They may be medicated or nonmedicated.
A 2017 studyTrusted Source found that lozenges containing amylmetacresol and 2,4-dichlorobenzylalcohol (AMC/DCBA) are a safe and effective way to relieve the pain associated with sore throats.
Lozenges may also contain:
antiseptic to kill germs
local anesthetic to numb the throat
Different types of lozenges are available from drugstores.
- Use honey
Honey is a traditional home remedy for sore throats. According to a 2016 study, taking 1 tablespoon of honey twice daily can help ease a sore throat.
The study stated that honey has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties that can provide relief from sore throats and promote a faster recovery.
However, a person should not give honey to infants under 1 year oldTrusted Source.
- Drink hot or cold fluids
Drinking hot or cold fluids can help ease the discomfort in two ways:
keeping the throat moist
soothing the throat
Cold liquids, frozen popsicles, or ice chips can also help by numbing the painful area.
- Use OTC pain relief
As well as lozenges, people can also try OTC pain medication to help ease a sore throat.
Acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are good choices.
Numbing throat sprays may also help. People can purchase these in most drugstores.
- Gargle saltwater
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source suggest gargling warm salt water can help sore throats.
A person should add about 1–2 teaspoons of salt to a cup and fill it with boiling water.
They should then wait for it to cool before gargling a mouthful at a time and spitting it out.
A person should take care not to swallow any saltwater. People with diabetes or those on a low sodium diet should practice extra caution with this treatment method.
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- Take an antacid
Sometimes, acid reflux can cause a sore throat.
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occursTrusted Source when the contents of the stomach come back up into the esophagus or windpipe.
As well as heartburn and chest pain, this can causeTrusted Source:
pain when swallowing
difficulty swallowing
hoarseness
cough
OTC antacid medications can help prevent sore throats by relieving the symptoms of acid reflux.
However, if a person has to take antacids frequently to ease acid reflux, they should speak with a doctor about alternative treatments.
Modifications to a person’s lifestyle and diet can alleviate chronic acid reflux. A doctor may also prescribe medication.
- Take antihistamines
Sometimes, allergies can cause a sore throat.
Allergies occur when the body’s immune system recognizes a harmless substance as a threat and mounts a response.
This can happen due to:
pollen
dust mites
animals
mold
OTC antihistamines can help ease allergy symptoms, including a sore throat.
However, many other remedies detailed here, such as honey and lozenges, can also relieve allergy-related sore throats by reducing pain and inflammation.
- Take vitamins and supplements
The body needs vitamins to fight off illnesses, including those that cause sore throats. Taking vitamins may help to prevent common colds and their symptoms.
A 2018 studyTrusted Source found that four main supplements play an important role in preventing common colds and keeping the immune system healthy. They include:
vitamin D
vitamin C
zinc
echinacea
They found that taking these vitamins and supplements reduced the symptoms of common colds and promoted a faster recovery.
Drinking orange juice with ice can also soothe a sore throat by numbing the area while also providing vitamin C.
However, people with acid reflux may wish to avoid this method, as orange juice is acidic and can worsen the symptoms of GERD.
- Get some rest
The body needs lots of rest when the immune system is fending off an illness.
Not getting enough sleep can makeTrusted Source the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses, as a lack of sleep impacts the immune system and reduces the production of antibodies.
According to the CDC, the recommended amount of sleep for an average adult is 7 hoursTrusted Source per night or more.
Learn more about the importance of sleep here.
- Avoid irritants
An irritant can sometimes cause or worsen a sore throat.
Examples of common irritants are:
smoking and vaping
being exposed to secondhand smoke
drinking alcohol
consuming acidic food and drink
eating spicy food
Exposure to chemicals such as those in cleaning products can sometimes irritate the throat.
A person with a sore throat should avoid smoking, vaping, and drinking alcohol, as these can worsen symptoms.
A person with acid reflux or GERD should avoid acidic or spicy food, as these can also worsen the conditions.
People who get chronic sore throats should also consider stopping smoking and eliminating alcohol, if relevant, as well as reducing their exposure to any other type of irritants.
- Use a humidifier
People often get sore throats when the air around them is too dry.
A humidifier turns water into vapor and releases it into the air, increasing the humidity.
By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier can moisten the throat. This can sometimes help with the symptoms of a sore throat.
- Stay hydrated
It may seem obvious, but drinking water is an effective way to help sore throats.
Dehydration can often cause a sore, dry throat. Drinking water will help remedy this.
A person should drinkTrusted Source more water when exercising, if they are unwell, and if they are in a hot climate.
- Try natural remedies
This section considers some natural remedies a person can try.
However, a person should always consult a doctor before using any natural remedies, especially if they take other medications.
Slippery elm
Native Americans have used slippery elm bark to treat sore throats for many years.
It has a thick consistency allowing it to coat and soothe a sore throat. However, the evidence to support this is only anecdotal, and researchers have not proved its effectiveness.
Producers strip the bark from the trees, then detach the “inner bark” for drying and powdering. They then use the powder to make teas and supplements to ease sore throats.
Marshmallow root
As with slippery elm bark, marshmallow root is a thick substance that can coat and protect a sore throat.
This may helpTrusted Source to soothe pain and inflammation and promote recovery.
People can find marshmallow root as an ingredient in teas and lozenges.
Licorice root
Many people believe that licorice and licorice root can help to ease a sore throat. It is a common ingredient in teas, lozenges, and supplements.
One 2019 studyTrusted Source found that licorice root could relieve symptoms of strep throat, but more research is needed to prove its effectiveness.
When to consult a doctor
People should speak with a doctor if:
the sore throat does not go away or worsens within a few days
they suspect they or their child may have strep throat
For strep throat, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
Alongside a sore throat, symptoms of strep throat include:
breathing difficulties
difficulty swallowing
blood in the saliva or phlegm
dehydration
A person should seek prompt medical attention if they experience these symptoms:
swelling or pain in the joints
a rash
Young children with strep throat may also drool excessively.
Anyone with a sore throat linked to COVID-19 should try to stay at home. Most peopleTrusted Source will have a mild illness and get better without medical attention.
Anyone experiencing the following symptoms should seek emergency care straight away:
breathing difficulties
persistent chest pain
pressure in the chest
confusion
inability to wake up or to stay awake
Summary
Viruses are the main cause of sore throats. Other causes include bacterial infections, allergies, and irritants.
To help sore throats, people can try lozenges, over-the-counter pain medicines and sprays, honey, herbal medicines, saltwater gargles, and more.
A sore throat will usually resolve on its own. However, people should speak with a doctor if they feel they are not getting better or suspect strep throat or a serious COVID-19 infection.