Sore throat is a condition that is defined by pain, itchiness, and irritation in the throat.
Pain in the throat is the initial symptom of a sore throat. It includes difficulty in swallowing solid and liquid food. The condition usually intensifies with time.
Best Home Remedies For Preventing Sore Throat In Children
A sore throat is not an emergency condition, and it does not pose any serious threat. Hence a doctor visit is not required.
However, a sore throat causes a lot of discomforts, but the good news is that it can be managed at home with few home remedies.
- Honey
Consumption of honey just as it is or mixed with hot water can ease out sore throat-related discomforts. Studies have shown that honey is more effective in treating nighttime cold and sore throat than cough suppressants.
Honey is also known as a good wound healer, so the soreness and the itchiness of the throat are relieved by honey.
- Salt Water Gargle
Warm salt water gargle is another home remedy that relieves the condition. It can also reduce the amount of secretion and kill the bacteria in the throat.
For this solution, half a teaspoon of salt is taken in a glass of warm water. The gurgle should be repeated once every 3 hours to reduce the swelling of the throat and ease out the pain and the discomfort.
- Chamomile
Chamomile has a soothing property and it is known to be effective in reducing inflammation. Hence, chamomile essence is a good remedy to heal sore throat at home.
Inhalation of chamomile steam alongside consumption of chamomile solution helps in boosting the immune system of the body to fight the infection that caused the throat soreness and pain.
- Peppermint
Peppermint is well known for freshening the breath. Peppermint contains menthol, peppermint oil in a diluted state can thin out the mucous and relieve sore throat.
Peppermint oil can help in the reduction of inflammation and ward of the bacterial and viral infection that might have caused the throat infection resulting in soreness and pain.
However, it is advised to use peppermint oil only after diluting it with some essential oil. The suggested formula is mixing five drops of peppermint oil with an ounce of coconut or sweet almond oil.
- Baking Soda
Mixing baking soda in the saltwater solution and gurgling with that can kill the bacteria in the throat and help in alleviating sore throat. It can also reduce the chances of fungi and yeast growth in the throat.
According to the recommendation of the National Cancer Institute, the gurgle solution should be made by mixing 1 cup of warm water, 1/4th and 1/8th teaspoon of baking soda and salt, respectively.
This solution should be used every three hours for gurgle or as it may be needed.
- Fenugreek
Using fenugreek in oil or in water can kill the bacteria and relieve inflammation and soreness of the throat.
Fenugreek is also known to have anti-fungal properties. Thus, it can help in fighting off any fungal infection that may cause any discomfort in the throat.
- Marshmallow root
Marshmallow root can be added to warm water and the mucous-like substance contained in it helps in easing out the symptoms.
Additional to the remedies mentioned above, placing a humidifier or a cool-mist spray can moisten the air that helps in relieving the symptoms of sore throat.
Children should be kept hydrated and encouraged to drink enough water, but juices and popsicles should be avoided.
Hard candy or cough drops lozenges should not be given to children under 5 years of age as they pose a threat of choking.
Although honey has lots of health benefits yet it should not be given to children younger than 1-year o of age.
Prevention of sore throat:
A sore throat can be prevented in a number of ways these include maintaining distance from those who are suffering from flu or throat infection. Washing hands frequently with soap and water.
Avoiding spicy and high acid content food that can cause irritation in the throat.
Avoiding chemical fumes and smoke that can cause inflammation of the throat is another measure that can be adopted to prevent a sore throat.
Over-the-counter medications.
In the instances where the natural remedies may seem inadequate, there are certain over-the-counter options that can provide relief. These include acetaminophen, numbing sprays, and lozenges.
Eucalyptus essence found in certain cough syrups and candies can also provide relief from the discomfort of the throat.
Trying a combination of natural and over-the-counter remedies along with adequate hydration can help in easing out symptoms without rushing to a doctor.
