Throat pain, often accompanied by discomfort and difficulty swallowing, can be a result of various factors such as viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or environmental irritants. Ayurveda, with its holistic approach to health, offers several natural remedies to alleviate throat pain and promote healing. Dr Ganesh Chaudhary, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), PHC, Darbhanga, Bihar shares eight Ayurvedic remedies for instant relief:
1. Gargle with Warm Salt Water
Method is to mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. It is advised salt water gargling helps reduce inflammation, soothes the throat, and loosens mucus.
Also read: Warming Relief: The Winter Wonder of Ginger Tea for Sore Throats
2. Turmeric Milk (Haldi Doodh)
Warm a cup of milk and add a pinch of turmeric (haldi) powder. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help relieve throat pain and boost the immune system.
3. Herbal Tea
Ingredients: Brew herbal teas such as licorice (yashtimadhu), ginger (adrak), or holy basil (tulsi). How it Helps: Herbal teas have soothing properties and can provide relief from throat discomfort.
4. Honey and Ginger
Mix a teaspoon of honey with freshly grated ginger juice. Honey has antibacterial properties, while ginger helps reduce inflammation and provides relief from throat pain.
5. Herbal Steam Inhalation
Add a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to hot water. Inhaling herbal steam can help open up nasal passages, reduce congestion, and alleviate throat pain.
6. Licorice Root (Yashtimadhu) Decoction
You need to boil licorice root in water to make a decoction. According to Journal Plant, licorice root has demulcent properties that coat the throat, providing relief from irritation and inflammation.
7. Triphala Water
Method: Soak Triphala powder in water overnight and strain the solution. Triphala, a combination of three fruits, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe throat pain.
8. Warm Herbal Compress
Dip a clean cloth in warm herbal tea or salt water and apply it to the throat. A warm compress can help relax throat muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation.
Also read: Soothing Sips: 5 Japanese Home Remedies to Treat Sore Throats
Precautions
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of warm fluids like water, herbal teas, and soups to stay hydrated and promote healing. Avoid straining your voice by speaking loudly or shouting. And steer clear of irritants like smoke, pollution, and allergens that can exacerbate throat discomfort.
If your throat discomfort persists or increases despite these solutions, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. While Ayurvedic medicines might provide relief for moderate throat pain, severe or chronic symptoms may necessitate medical intervention.