Coughs and sore throats seem to affect everyone at some time in their lives and often accompany the common cold. Home remedies can work well to ease coughs and sore throats, but these symptoms may be signs of something more serious that requires a doctor's care. If a doctor rules out problems like strep throat, asthma or pneumonia, there are a number of home remedies that might be worth a try.
Water
According to the National Institutes of Health, coughing is a reflex that helps you clear your throat and airways, helping your body heal and protect itself. Drinking water can help, and moisture in the air also may soothe a cough. Take a steamy shower or use a vaporizer at home. If you wake up with a sore throat during the dry, winter months, a drink of water or other fluid in the morning will help alleviate the ache.
Warm Liquids
The NIH reports that drinking warm liquids can help to ease a sore, scratchy throat. The NIH notes that lemon tea with honey is a "time-tested remedy." You also may find relief from sore throat pain by gargling with warm salt water. The NIH suggests mixing one-half teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water and gargling several times a day.
Honey
According to the Mayo Clinic, people often use honey to soothe irritated throats and research indicates it may also help ease coughs. Dr. James Steckelberg reports that children in one study who consumed honey at bedtime seemed to have fewer coughs and a better night's sleep. He notes that children younger than 1 year old should never consume honey because of the risk of infant botulism.
Cold Food and Drinks
For some people, putting something cold into their mouths may ease sore throats. Cold liquids or popsicles can be helpful, according to the NIH.
Candy or Lozenges
The NIH recommends sucking on hard candies or throat lozenges, which can help to soothe a sore throat by increasing the production of saliva. It reports that this treatment "is often as effective as more expensive remedies." However, it notes that hard candies and lozenges can be dangerous for younger children because of the choking risk.
