Sore throat, typically caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes, may cause scratchiness and painful swallowing. A sore throat usually indicates another illness, such as a cold or the flu. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, most cases of sore throat clear up within a week on their own. Using herbal remedies may make you more comfortable while waiting for the condition to pass. Consult a physician if symptoms do not improve within seven days, however, as your sore throat may be caused by bacteria or a virus that requires medical attention.
Sage and Vinegar
A combination of sage and apple cider vinegar may help relieve sore throat pain when used as a gargle. In her book "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health," herbalist Rosemary Gladstar recommends making a sore throat gargle by combining 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup cooled strong sage tea and 2 tsp. salt. Make a strong sage tea by steeping 3 tsp. dried sage in 1 cup boiling water for 20 minutes, and then straining. Gargle with the mixture several times a day as needed to relieve pain. Store excess in the refrigerator and make a fresh batch daily for the best results.
Marshmallow
Herbalists have used marshmallow, a soothing mucilaginous herb, for thousands of years to treat sore throat, coughs and many other ailments. The herb contains water-soluble fiber, also known as mucilage, that coats the throat and eases pain when consumed. Marshmallow also contains anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated mucous membranes. In his book "The Green Pharmacy," herbalist James A. Duke recommends making marshmallow tea by steeping 3 tsp. crumbled marshmallow root in 1 cup boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes, straining, and then drinking as needed to relieve sore throat pain.
Licorice
Licorice, another mucilaginous herb, may also help alleviate pain caused by a sore throat. Herbalists in Europe and Asia have revered licorice as a sore throat treatment for hundreds of years. The herb soothes inflamed tissues in the throat and has antiviral properties, according to Asa Hershoff in his book "Herbal Remedies: A Quick and Easy Guide to Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies." For the best results, add five 1-inch pieces of dried or fresh licorice root to 3 cups water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until about half of the water has boiled away, remove the root pieces and drink as needed.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm also contains mucilage that allays sore throat pain. Jude C. Todd, author of "Jude's Home Remedies," recommends making a homemade syrup from slippery elm and honey to treat sore throat. Combine 1 tbsp. slippery elm powder with ½ tbsp. water to make a thick paste. Combine ½ cup honey with 2 cups boiling water and stir until thoroughly combined. Add the honey mixture to the slippery elm paste slowly, stirring constantly. Take 1 tbsp. of the syrup as often as needed. Store excess syrup in a covered glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Pharyngitis
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2008
- "The Green Pharmacy"; James A. Duke; 1998
- "Herbal Remedies: A Quick and Easy Guide to Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies"; Asa Hershoff; 2001
- "Jude's Herbal Home Remedies"; Jude C. Todd; 2002
