A sore throat can be a miserable part of winters coughs and colds. Usually caused by a viral infection they can bring pain when swallowing, cause a hoarse voice, bring a dry scratchy throat and cause redness at the back of the throat. Most sore throats will improve in less than a week, but if you want a natural helping hand to feel more comfortable while you heal, we have a great selection of natural sore throat remedies.
Manuka Honey
Honey has been used in healthcare since ancient times thanks to its natural antibacterial properties. Manuka honey contains a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which comes from the conversion of another compound in Manuka honey known as dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a high concentration of which is found in the nectar of Manuka flowers. The higher the concentration of MGO, the stronger the antibacterial effect. You can mix manuka honey with hot water to make a soothing drink, try in handy lozenges or as a topical throat spray
Throat Tea
A warm drink can work wonders for soothing an irritated throat. Herbal teas with extracts of licorice, marshmallow root and/or cinnamon work best. Try one of our special blends specifically to sooth throats, such as NutraTea Nutra Throat or Yogi's Throat Comfort
Herbal Elixir
Instead of reaching for a chemical-laden over the counter cough syrup, why not take a look at some natural options such as a herbal elixir or throat gel. Irish Botanica's Throat Coat contains a host of botanical ingredients including marshmallow root and liquorice to help lubricate a sore throat as does Floradix Alpenkraft. Otosan Throat Gel Forte comes in a handy sachet format - perfect for a pocket or handbag - and has a special gel format which protects the mucosa from irritants, providing long-lasting relief.
Echinacea
One of the most famous herbal supports for coughs and colds, echinacea is available in formats specifically to help treat sore throats. A. Vogel Echinacea Throat Spray has a convenient pump spray to deliver anti-inflammatory relief directly to the throat and lozenges are a handy option to keep a dry throat lubricated when out and about.
Take a look at our full range of products to support a sore throat here
References
HSE.ie - Sore throat
Web MD - Manuka Honey
