The 11 Best Natural Cures for a Sore Throat

By Katie Golde

Sore throats can be the worst. It starts with that scratchy irritation, and before you know it you’re cringing with every painful swallow. (Insert frowny-face emoji here.) They can come from viral infections, bacterial infections, allergies, and even muscle strains. So unless you’re a superhero, there’s a good chance you’ve had one before.

But you don’t need a cape—or even OTC medicine—to get some relief. Try these science-backed strategies—including dessert!—to feel better fast without leaving the house (OK you might need to make a quick trip to the grocery store).

1. Sage

Think of sage as a super multitasker: It’s been used as an herbal remedy for many ailments (even infertility in ancient Egypt). And while we’re not sure it’ll help in the baby-making department, it can soothe that nasty sore throat thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Try using it as a tea; the warm liquids will help too (win-win!).

2. Licorice Root

While Twizzlers and Red Vines may not keep the pain away, the root of the licorice shrub has been known to alleviate pain and even treat health issues like heartburn, cough, and infections caused by viruses. There are a ton of recipes for licorice root tea worth sipping on, and it’s been proven effective. One study even found that it soothed the throats of patients after surgery if they gargled with it before going underA randomized, double-blind comparison of licorice versus sugar-water gargle for prevention of postoperative sore throat and postextubation coughing. Ruetzler K., Fleck M., Nabecker S., et. al., Department of Outcomes Research, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave.-P77, Cleveland, OH, Anesthia and Analgesia. 2013 Sep;117(3):614-21. doi: 10.1213/ANE.0b013e318299a650. Epub 2013 Aug 6..

3. Honey

This sore throat remedy has been in rotation since ancient times and with good reason. Adding bee’s honey to warm water or tea is considered a steadfast treatment for a sore throat. Even better, you probably already have a jar kicking around in your kitchen. So dig out that squeezy bear bottle and add a dollop to your mug, as science supports the use of this throat coatMedicinal and cosmetic uses of Bee’s Honey—A review. Ediriweera, E. R. H. S. S. and Premarathna, N. Y. S., Institute of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka., Ayu. 2012.

4. Echinacea

There’s a reason echinacea is all over the pharmacy in multiple forms, including extracts, tinctures, tablets, capsules, and ointments: A variety of studies have shown it boosts the immune system and relieves inflammation. Herbalists recommend echinacea to shorten the duration of the common cold, including easing symptoms like cough, fever, and, you guessed it—sore throats.

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