3 Simple Sore Throat Remedies That Are In Your Pantry

Sore Throat Solution: The honey gargle

Your favourite tea sweetener just might make you feel better. Not only does honey taste oh-so-sweet but it has the ability to coat your sore throat and help you find some relief. (Honey contains antibacterial properties, which help you heal faster.) And the best part? It may already be in your kitchen.

Stir 1-3 teaspoons into 1 cup warm water and gargle two or three times a day.

(Honey with activated charcoal might help too.)

photo credit: shutterstock

Sore Throat Solution: The salt water gargle

We are always told to watch our salt intake, but when you are dealing with a sore throat salt is a saviour. Salt water has been used as a gargle for centuries because it works so well: It draws moisture from the mucus membranes (thereby diluting mucus) and helps cleanse the throat of phlegm. Although it may taste gnarly and sting any sore you have in your mouth like crazy, it’s efficient and works. And who doesn’t have salt in their home?

Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon salt in 1 cup of warm water and gargle three or four times daily.

(If you’re not all salted out, why not make a tasty, salty snack? These kale chips may just soothe your craving (but swap for sea salt instead.)

Sore Throat Solution: The peppermint gargle

You might think peppermint as a breath freshener, but this herb has some healthy powers, especially if you are sick. The menthol in peppermint helps open the nasal passages, especially when you gargle strong peppermint tea. Pour 1 cup boiling water over two peppermint tea bags and let steep for four to five minutes. Make sure to gargle with the solution (when cooled) two or three times a day. (Peppermint has many other health benefits, too.)