COVID-19: Try these simple home remedies to treat a sore throat

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Do you have a sore throat?

A sore throat is no less than a nuisance. It can also be one of the earliest symptoms of coronavirus infection in the body. A sore throat, accompanied by a dry cough can mark the onset of a bad viral infection, which, if not taken care of can land you in trouble.

02/8Try these home remedies

While coronavirus symptoms require urgent medical attention, there are certain home remedies you can make use of to battle the problem of sore throat and make it a little less troublesome. We tell you five simple remedies which do not cost a bomb

03/8Ginger-honey wrap

This unique ginger-honey wrap works just like a kadha in battling nasty germs and infection spreading viruses. Ginger is a spiced root which works effectively in reducing symptoms of sore throat, while honey is a soothing anti-inflammatory agent which strengthen your immunity. This unique combination also acts as an expectorant and opens up your sinuses, getting rid of the mucus and washing down irritants which might be giving you an itchy and scratchy throat.

What you will need:

-Ginger (grated)

-Raw honey

-Olive oil

-Flour

-Napkin/ Tissue

-Gauze

-Tape

Mixing honey and flour together, add grated ginger and 2-3 drops of olive oil to this. Once ready, put a small mixture on a tissue/napkin and using adhesive, tape it to the chest.

It is advised that you apply this concoction before going to bed. If you have sensitive skin, conduct a small patch test before use.

04/8Gargling with saltwater

Gargling with a solution of saltwater is one of the best and trusted remedies to battle a sore throat and quash down germs and viruses. However, this remedy must be practised regularly, for 3-4 days to start showing results. Although there isn’t convincing proof that saltwater can actually kill germs or the coronavirus (don’t fall for this myth just yet), saltwater can help reduce certain associated symptoms like swelling and irritation. It is also a good way to stay hydrated, which again, is vital when you are going through a bout of cold, cough or any viral infection.

Simply mix half a tablespoon of salt with warm water and gargle in the back of your throat. Make sure to spit out the mixture and not actually swallow it. Do it 2-3 times a day, for a minimum of three days to see a reduction of symptoms. However, remember, saltwater or hot water is no treatment or preventive measure for COVID-19.

05/8Have mulethi (liquorice root)

Mulethi is a traditional Ayurvedic herb which is added in chai as well as consumed when you feel the onset of a viral infection settling in. It’s also a good reliever for the itchiness caused by a sore throat. Mulethi has also been found to contain helpful anti-viral properties which target bad disease-spreading pathogens. It also produces healthy mucus, which softens the pain and roughness. The antioxidants in it take care of any free radicals which may harm your immunity.

06/8Drink apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has alkaline properties which have anti-inflammatory properties in them. It is also the main ingredient in traditional oxymels, which are used to treat cough and cold. It is particularly helpful in relieving a sore throat since the acid content in the solutions helps eliminate the infection spreading bad bacteria, which cause inflammation in the throat. To relieve symptoms, drinking a glass of warm water mixed with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar can prove to be helpful. You can also add honey for additional taste and benefits.

07/8Coconut oil pulling

We have all heard about the health benefits of a traditional preventive remedy, oil pulling. Coconut oil pulling can be one home remedy you can try to lessen your pain and deal with the problem of a sore throat. Coconut oil helps in quashing out the toxins and the germs strengthen immunity as well as clears out nasal passages.

Coconut oil is also very soothing on the throat and carries zero side-effects. Having close to two tablespoons of good quality coconut oil regular basis can help your body fight infections and viruses naturally.

08/8Disclaimer

What we have listed here are some simple home remedies you can make use of to relieve the irritation caused by sore throat, these are in no way foolproof treatment measures for coronavirus infection. Home remedies can also help you to a certain extent but if problems persist, or you experience more symptoms of COVID-19, seek immediate medical help. Use a mask and follow other safety preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.