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Cold And Cough Home Remedies: 5 Medicinal Drinks To Cure Sore Throat Quickly

How to cure cold and cough naturally at home? Here are the top 5 quick remedies to deal with soar throat. Cold And Cough Home Remedies: 5 Medicinal Drinks To Cure Sore Throat Quickly

Cold and Cough Home Remedies: Winter is here! With the breezy cold wave, comes the season of cold and cough. A sore throat, often a common symptom of a cold or cough, can be extremely uncomfortable and bothersome. The pain or scratchiness in your throat makes it difficult to swallow, talk, and at times, even breathe. While there are numerous over-the-counter medications available, many people turn to home remedies, particularly medicinal drinks, to find relief. These natural remedies not only help soothe a sore throat but also promote overall wellness.

In this article, we will discuss the top 5 effective medicinal drinks that can help relieve sore throat symptoms quickly, providing comfort and boosting your immune system naturally.

5 Medicinal Drinks To Cure Cold and Cough Naturally At Home

Are you suffering from a cold and cough (sore throat)? Here are the top 5 medicinal drinks to cure this condition naturally at home without taking any medication:

Honey And Lemon

One of the best home remedies for a sore throat is a warm mixture of honey and lemon. Honey is known for its antibacterial qualities and serves to coat the throat, offering quick relief from irritation. Lemon is packed with vitamin C, which boosts the immune system. To make this remedy, simply mix two tablespoons of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water. This comforting drink not only helps soothe soreness but also keeps you hydrated, which is especially important when you're under the weather.

Ginger or Adrak Tea

Ginger tea stands out as another strong home remedy for cold and cough symptoms. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease swelling in the throat and reduce discomfort. It also works as a natural decongestant, clearing nasal passages. To prepare ginger tea, slice fresh ginger root and let it steep in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Adding honey can boost the flavor and increase soothing effects. This warming drink not only calms a sore throat but also warms you up, making it especially soothing in colder weather.

Turmeric Milk

Turmeric milk, known as 'golden milk,' is a traditional remedy that has been cherished in many cultures for ages. Turmeric boasts curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. To make turmeric milk, warm a cup of milk, then stir in a teaspoon of turmeric powder along with a dash of black pepper to improve absorption. Sweetening it with honey makes it taste even better. Drinking this before bed can soothe your throat and promote better sleep, which is crucial for recovery.

Saltwater Gargle

Gargling with saltwater is a straightforward yet powerful way to relieve a sore throat. The salt helps to pull excess fluid from inflamed tissues, reducing swelling and discomfort. For a saltwater gargle, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water. Gargle for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. You can repeat this several times a day for the best results. It's an easy and quick method to ease throat pain without needing fancy ingredients.

Herbal Ayurvedic Tea

A variety of herbal teas can also offer relief from cold and cough symptoms. Chamomile tea, for example, has anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe your throat. Peppermint tea contains menthol, which acts as a natural decongestant and can reduce throat irritation. To make these herbal teas, steep the herbs in hot water for about five minutes. Adding honey can enhance the taste and provide extra soothing benefits. Drinking herbal teas throughout the day keeps you hydrated and supports your healing process.

Adding the above-mentioned top 5 medicinal drinks into your daily routine during cold and cough season can provide comfort and promote faster healing. Always remember to stay hydrated, rest, and consult a healthcare professional if your sore throat persists or worsens.

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Sore Throat Could Be Covid XEC Strain Brits Warned As 1,000 Are Hospitalised In A Week

As the UK continues to grapple with high coronavirus rates, an expert has shed light on how to distinguish a Covid sore throat from one caused by strep or other infections. With the arrival of colder weather and more indoor gatherings, we're at a heightened risk of catching seasonal bugs.

But with so many viruses circulating, it's tricky to pinpoint exactly what you might have caught. The latest stats from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that COVID-19 cases are still quite prevalent, with 1,081 confirmed in the week leading up to 4 December, alongside 122 Covid-related deaths in the week before 22 November.

The cold weather means colds and flus are more common (Image: Getty Images)

Hospital admissions due to Covid also saw a slight increase of 1.5 percent, with 1,085 patients admitted up to 30 November. Experts had previously associated a spike in Covid cases with the emergence of the XEC variant, first identified in Germany and noted for its high transmissibility due to several mutations.

Adding to health concerns, the NHS has recently highlighted the possibility of a "quademic" hitting the UK, with flu, norovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Covid potentially impacting many this winter.

Considering this, an expert revealed how to identify the potential cause of a sore throat, including other warning signs to look out for. Phil Day, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy2U (pharmacy2u.Co.Uk), shared his insights, reports the Mirror.

Covid Hospital admissions for Covid have seen a slight increase (Image: Richard Baker / In Pictures via Getty Images)

If a sore throat is accompanied by four other specific symptoms, it might indicate infection with the XEC variant of Covid, according to Phil. He explained: "The XEC variant of COVID-19 has added another layer of complexity to the sore throat diagnosis. In many cases, a sore throat is one of the initial symptoms, often accompanied by a dry cough, fatigue, fever, and sometimes a loss of taste or smell. While most mild cases can be managed with rest and over-the-counter remedies, it's crucial to assess whether COVID-19 could be the cause of your symptoms."

For suspected Covid cases, the NHS recommends staying at home and avoiding contact with others until symptoms improve.

Strep throat Step throat can cause sudden, sharp throat pain (Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)

Strep throat, a bacterial infection, presents with more severe symptoms, as Phil highlighted: "These include a sudden onset of sharp throat pain, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands, and white streaks or spots on the tonsils."

He cautioned that it could also lead to a high fever, general fatigue and potentially tonsillitis. "It's important to recognise that unlike a viral sore throat, strep throat requires antibiotics to prevent complications like rheumatic fever," he explained.

"This means a GP consultation is necessary for proper diagnosis and prescription, as antibiotics cannot be issued without a confirmed bacterial cause."

Tonsillitis Tonsillitis can be either viral or bacterial and can cause pain when swallowing (Image: GETTY)

Tonsillitis can be either viral or bacterial, and it's often characterised by red, swollen tonsils, a fever, and pain when swallowing. "It may also cause bad breath, swollen lymph nodes, and even ear pain," Phil added.

"Viral tonsillitis is generally managed with supportive care, much like treating a sore throat-rest, hydration, and over-the-counter treatments. However, bacterial tonsillitis, particularly when caused by strep bacteria, requires antibiotic treatment."

Laryngitis affects the voice box and can lead to hoarseness, a sore throat, or even a complete loss of voice. Phil continued: "This condition is commonly triggered by viral infections, overuse of the voice, or exposure to irritants like smoke.

"While laryngitis typically clears up on its own within a week or two, the discomfort can be bothersome. Pharmacists can offer advice on how to soothe the throat during recovery, such as staying hydrated, using throat lozenges, and resting the voice. Avoiding irritants like smoking and maintaining a humid environment can also help speed up recovery."

Doctors Recommend This Hot Drink To Ease Cough Symptoms

A hot toddy is a warm drink often used as a home remedy to treat cold and flu symptoms. Its ingredients may improve coughs, runny noses, and sore throats.

The warm drink contains hot water, lemon or lemon juice, and honey. Some recipes also call for alcohol, such as whiskey, rum, or brandy. 

While no research proves that a hot toddy improves a cough, there is evidence that the individual ingredients can be helpful for a cold or flu.

The Effectiveness of Each Ingredient  More research is needed to determine whether a hot toddy is beneficial for a cold or the flu. The ingredients, including honey, lemon, and hot water, have each improved cold symptoms like a cough or sore throat. While some hot toddy recipes call for alcohol, some research suggests that adding alcohol could be counterproductive because it impairs the body's ability to defend against infections.  Honey Honey is a proven treatment for coughs. It may be as effective as certain cough medications. Honey may improve a cough because it coats the throat and soothes irritation. It also has antimicrobial properties that may fight certain bacteria and viruses to prevent illness.  Lemon (or Lemon Juice) Lemons and lemon juice are rich in vitamin C. Research shows that consuming vitamin C when coming down with a cold may shorten the duration and lower the severity of the symptoms. Regularly consuming vitamin C supplements or foods may reduce your risk of getting a cold.  Hot Water Drinking hot water may feel soothing when you have a respiratory illness. A mixture of a hot liquid and steam has been found to clear the nasal passages and relieve a sore throat. In addition to water, other hot drinks that may improve cold symptoms include tea and broth.  Alcohol Some hot toddy recipes call for adding alcohol, such as whiskey, rum, or brandy. However, there is no evidence adding alcohol to your warm drink has any health benefits.  A Word From Verywell Many people feel comforted with a hot drink when sick. Research and personal reports show that hot water combined with lemon and honey can be helpful for cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Can a Hot Toddy Relieve Other Symptoms? Drinking a hot drink like a hot toddy may improve a cough, soothe a runny nose, and relieve a sore throat. Drinking a hot drink with steam may also reduce sneezing, chills, and fatigue. Research shows that a room-temperature drink may improve a cough, runny nose, and sneezing. However, it will not clear the nasal passages or improve a sore throat.  How to Make a Hot Toddy at Home Making a hot toddy at home with three common ingredients is simple. First, gather honey, a lemon, and hot water. To heat the water, bring it to a boil and pour it into a mug. Stir in a spoonful of honey and a squeeze of lemon. You may add more flavor to your drink by adding herbs or spices such as cinnamon, peppermint, or ginger.  Can You Leave the Alcohol Out? Yes, you can leave the alcohol out of your hot toddy. While alcohol is a common ingredient in this drink, it may decrease the potential health benefits. Alcohol impairs the body's ability to function and fight infection. Alcohol is also dehydrating and removes fluid from the body. When you are sick, it is important to stay hydrated to fight the illness.  Who Should Avoid Drinking a Hot Toddy? Some people should avoid drinking a hot toddy. Hot toddies contain honey, which is unsafe for infants under 12 months old. Infants are at an increased risk of botulism from honey. Honey contains harmful bacteria that may lead to serious illness in infants.  A hot toddy may also contain alcohol. People who are not of legal age to consume alcohol are not advised to drink a hot toddy that contains alcohol.  Other Remedies for a Cough Some home remedies may be helpful for a cough and other cold symptoms. Consider trying the following treatments for cough relief: Use a humidifier: A humidifier adds moisture to the air. Dry air can irritate the sinuses and make a cough worse. Using a humidifier may improve the symptoms of a cold or allergies.  Gargle with salt water: Gargling with salt water may improve a sore throat. Saltwater flushes bacteria and viruses from the throat and may speed up healing.  Take over-the-counter (OTC) cough medications: OTC cough medications may temporarily relieve a cough. Expectorants break up mucus, and cough suppressants block the cough reflex.  Try essential oils: Breathing in certain essential oils may improve cold symptoms. One study found that smelling eucalyptus and peppermint improved cough and cold symptoms.  Summary  Many people seek natural remedies to improve their symptoms at home during cold and flu season. A hot toddy is a warm drink that contains hot water, honey, and lemon. Each ingredient has improved cold and flu symptoms, including coughing, runny nose, and sore throat. Some hot toddy recipes contain alcohol, but adding alcohol may impair your body's ability to fight the infection. Additional home remedies for a cough and other cold symptoms include using a humidifier, gargling with salt water, OTC medications, and essential oils. 11 Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Almehizia AA, AlEssa RK, Alwusaidi KM, et al. Allergic rhinitis: disease characteristics and coping measures in Saudi Arabia. PLoS One. 2019;14(6):e0217182. Doi:10.1371/journal.Pone.0217182 Paul IM, Beiler J, McMonagle A, Shaffer ML, Duda L, Berlin CM Jr. Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2007;161(12):1140-1146. Doi:10.1001/archpedi.161.12.1140 Sinha S, Sehgal A, Ray S, Sehgal R. Benefits of manuka honey in the management of infectious diseases: recent advances and prospects. Mini Rev Med Chem. 2023;23(20):1928-1941. Doi:10.2174/1389557523666230605120717 Hemilä H, Chalker E. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;2013(1):CD000980. Doi:10.1002/14651858.CD000980.Pub4 Montenegro-Landívar MF, Tapia-Quirós P, Vecino X, et al. Polyphenols and their potential role to fight viral diseases: an overview. Sci Total Environ. 2021;801:149719. Doi:10.1016/j.Scitotenv.2021.149719 Sanu A, Eccles R. The effects of a hot drink on nasal airflow and symptoms of common cold and flu. Rhinology. 2008;46(4):271-275. Sarkar D, Jung MK, Wang HJ. Alcohol and the immune system. Alcohol Res. 2015;37(2):153-155. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Botulism prevention. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Humidifiers and indoor allergies. Panta P, Chatti K, Andhavarapu A. Do saline water gargling and nasal irrigation confer protection against COVID-19? Explore (NY). 2021;17(2):127-129. Doi:10.1016/j.Explore.2020.09.010 Horváth G, Ács K. Essential oils in the treatment of respiratory tract diseases highlighting their role in bacterial infections and their anti-inflammatory action: a review. Flavour Fragr J. 2015;30(5):331-341. Doi:10.1002/ffj.3252 By Carrie Madormo, RN, MPHMadormo is a health writer with over a decade of experience as a registered nurse. She has worked in pediatrics, oncology, chronic pain, and public health. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error

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