A sore throat is caused when the sensitive membranes at the back of your throat are irritated by foreign microscopic particles. In the case of a viral sore throat, the cause is a virus such as a cold or flu. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that may combat the onset of a viral induced sore throat.
Speak with your physician before attempting to self-treat any medical condition.
Garlic
Garlic is a potent natural herb that contains many healing properties, including antibacterial and antiviral agents. In addition, garlic contains vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties which aid in boosting the immune system. For this reason, cultures throughout recorded history have incorporated its use in medicinal practices. According to All About Natural Treatment, garlic's antibacterial properties are effective in treating sore a throat. The effectiveness of this particular use is due to garlic's viral-destroying agents. Cooking with garlic is the most preferred preparation of consumption; However, it may be consumed alone as a clove, or boiled in water and served as a tea. Furthermore, since garlic is a natural food, its use presents no dangerous side effects.
Cayenne Pepper
According to Discovery Health, the medicinal effectiveness of the cayenne pepper dates back as far as that of the garlic clove. Capsaicin, the main active ingredient in this herb, is the compound responsible for the spicy flavor of cayenne. In the case of a viral sore throat, cayenne may be added to a mixture of salt and lemon juice to alleviate pain. This mixture may also negate the viral infection by removing accumulated mucus from the throat. The preparation is not to be swallowed, but gargled and expelled from your mouth. Honey and vanilla extract may be added to the gargle to improve the burning taste.
Lemon
Merck Manuals states that vitamin C is an antioxidant, facilitates iron absorption as well as supports immune function.The lemon is an acidic fruit that possesses a high amount of vitamin C, and it is these natural qualities that contribute to its medicinal properties. The acid is capable of breaking down the mucus associated with a viral sore throat and also eradicates viral particles existing in the mucus. The vitamin C content of the lemon serves as a fortifying agent for the immune system, which is your body's natural defense to viruses. The most popular preparation of this fruit is lemon juice, which can be mixed with honey to improve taste. Since lemons are very acidic, daily consumption may dissolve tooth enamel.
