COVID-19: Try these simple home remedies to treat a sore throat
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.
Try 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
Ginger-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.
Gargling 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.
Have mulethi (liquorice root) ( athimaduram)
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.
Drink 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.
Coconut 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.
Disclaimer
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.
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