Spring is in the air—and a tickle is in your throat. Excess pollen flying around could have something to do with it; but in reality, a scratchy, sore throat can happen for any number of reasons, from excessive talking and laughing to the common cold, an infection or even stomach acid reflux.
No matter what the cause, you can get relief and support throat health naturally with some great gargles, as well as nutritional and herbal solutions for upper respiratory wellness.
1. Warm salt water gargle
For a soothing gargle that also helps flush away irritants and loosen thick, clogging mucous, combine a cup of water with a half-teaspoon of sea salt. Stir gently to dissolve the salt, then gargle the mixture for 30 seconds. Keep gargling until the entire cup of water has been used.
2. Herbal throat spray
A quick spritz of Gaia Herbs Echinacea Goldenseal Propolis Throat Spray not only offers instant relief, thanks to the soothing effects of licorice and propolis, it also delivers a variety of herbs to help support immune health.* Spray it directly into your throat, or if you’d rather, spritz it into a cup of warm water or tea and sip it instead.
3. Herbal lozenges
Try toning down a case of the tingles with all-natural lozenges, such as Zand HerbaLozenge. Featuring soothing elderberry and citrus peel extracts, these drops also contain zinc and vitamin C for immune support.* Plus, they’re sugar free, so you can such on them anytime and not worry about harming your teeth.
4. Throat-support tea
Traditional Medicinals Organic Throat Coat tea contains a unique blend of slippery elm bark, licorice and marshmallow root that lubricates and soothes your throat for instant relief. Keep a few packets in your purse, car or work desk drawer to stop that scratchy feeling in its tracks.
5. Ginger & honey tea
A simple tea made with fresh, chopped ginger and a spoonful of raw honey is a reliable and effective way to relieve throat discomfort. Make a small batch by simmering 2 tablespoons of ginger for 10 minutes, straining and stirring in honey. Or, make a pitcher by tripling the recipe and keeping it in your fridge for up to three days.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
