If you are into natural approaches to fighting cold/flu symptoms, this home remedy is an absolute must-try. Natural home remedies are typically most effective at the first sign of symptoms, and at the first sign of a sore throat, this remedy is guaranteed to make me feel better fast!
Although I call it Sore Throat Remedy, the ingredients in the recipe really act as an overall natural defense against cold symptoms. And since it is cold and flu season, I’m thinking what better time to make this post!
I’ve battled with my fair share of sore throats and laryngitis over the years. This remedy has done wonders for kicking my cold symptoms and preventing that anticipated sore throat symptom from getting worse. I usually make a big batch and keep it warm in a thermos. It becomes my “drinking water” for the day. In addition, I gargle with sea salt and warm water 3 times a day as a great adjunct remedy. The two really go hand in hand, at least for me in my experience.
Here is what makes this Sore Throat Remedy so effective:
Lemons: They contain vitamin C which support immune function and boosts white blood cells.
Garlic: Use raw garlic (not garlic powder). Garlic has anti-viral compounds that work directly on the immune system to heal the infections that cause a sore throat while also fighting the germs that contribute to pain and irritation symptoms.
Ginger root: A warming, immune-boosting spice that has anti-inflammatory properties.
Raw unpasteurized honey: Raw and unpasteurized means that the honey has not been heated or processed in any way. This is important, as raw honey has anti-bacterial properties. When heated – like most commercial honey – these amazing health benefits are destroyed. Raw honey has an opaque, sort of milky and thicker consistency to the processed varieties. Manuka honey is especially superb for this remedy.
Turmeric: Has powerful anti-inflammatory effects (this comes from the curcuminoid compounds, curcumin being the main active ingredient); also is a very strong antioxidant.
Cayenne pepper: A natural analgesic (pain reliever) with anti-inflammatory properties. The perfect addition to this remedy to help heal a sore throat.
Sore Throat Remedy
Ingredients
- 1/2 inch freshly grated ginger root
- 1 garlic clove grated
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon raw honey or Manuka honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric or 2-3 slices turmeric root
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- 1 cup hot water
Instructions
- Boil water. Use an electric kettle if you have one.
- Grate ginger and garlic into a tea cup/coffee mug.
- Squeeze juice from 1/2 lemon.
- Once water comes to the boil pour into mug.
- Stir in turmeric, honey, and cayenne pepper.
