Home remedies for sore throat

Usually warm salt water gargle will reduce swelling and relieve any discomfort. To be effective, gargle using one teaspoon of common table salt or baking soda dissolved in a glass of warm water. Repeat every hour or two.

Drink lots of fluids to thin secretions and soothe irritated throat.Unsweetened warm herbal tea and soups help decrease throat irritation faster.Contrary to popular belief that sucking popsicles helps relieve sore throats, I don't quite advise you doing this as cold food irritates your throat making you cough more. Also, before making herbal teas, check if you've an allergy to herbs. I find raspberry tea the best though some may like peppermint, chamomile or liquorice. Warm water with lemon which is rich in vitamin C helps boost your immune system for faster recovery.

To help breathing easier, you can use a humidifier in your bedroom at night. The warm mist soothes swollen air passages. In the event that you do not have a humidifier, simply place a bowl of water in the room. It is wise to stop smoking as it irritates your sensitive membranes at this time.

Over the counter throat lozenges like Sucrets Maximum Strength or Spec-T contain medical composition that numb throats are safe and effective to use. Or you can consider sucking on hard candies to help bring moisture to dry throat and ease pain.

To make your breathing easier, use decongestant or a steam tent. A steam tent can also help get rid of a sore throat. Boil a pan of water and set it on the table. Drape a towel your head covering the pan. Breath deeply through both your mouth and your nose. This will help sooth sore throat.

If you experience a sore throat that persists over time or you have any strange symptoms, go to your local physician who will be able to decide if there's suspicion of a more serious condition and need immediate medical attention.