The best thing about a diy throat gargle is that they are ingredients that are easy to find and if you do have them then you can use them for many other things besides your throat infections.
Herbs can be used to make teas, cough syrups, even compresses showing the versatility of the herbs themselves.
Thyme (thymus vulgaris) has antibacterial properties which can also be used to help coughs and sore throats that can easily be grown or found in the spice racks of homes.
Sage (salvia officinalis) has antimicrobial and anti inflammatory properties and is used to soothe airways, while thinning out mucus and helping calm coughs.
Peppermint (mentha piperita) is very easily found plant in your grocery store, it has soothing effects that can help relive throat discomfort.
You will also be using salt, which is a well known natural sore throat pain reliever, as well as lemon which contains vitamin C and antimicrobial properties, and honey.
DIY Herbal Throat Gargle
Ensure that the water is warm for gargling, if it is too hot it can scold the throat. Ensure the water temperature is good to use by testing it first. In adding gargling make sure to stay well hydrated by drinking water or a special tea blend which can help to also soothe a sore throat.
Ingredients:
1 cup of warm water
1/2 tsp (5ml) salt
1-2 tbsp (15ml) of honey
Juice of organic lemon
Equal parts of thyme, sage and peppermint
Directions:
Boil the water and allow to cool down a little bit.
Add salt to the warm water and stir to dissolve fully.
Add in honey.
Squeeze the lemon into the mix.
Infuse with the herbs (if you do not have all the herbs you can choose one or two, main ones are thyme and sage if you can get those)
For thyme: Add a few springs of thyme or teaspoon of dried thyme leaves.
For sage: Add a few sage leaves or a teaspoon of dried sage.
For peppermint: Add a few fresh peppermint leaves or a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves.
Stir the mix well to make sure that all the salt and honey are mixed and allow the herbs to steep for a few minutes.
Once the mix is at the desired temperature for gargling take a sip, tilt head back and gargle for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Be careful not to swallow it.
Ensure that the mixture reaches the bar of the throat.
Repeat the process every few hours or as needed for relief.
Final Thoughts
Sore throats are unfortunately something that we have to deal. There are many natural solutions that you can have up your sleeve which can come also from your local grocery store or backyard to help to soothe throat and relieve some irritation. If you need more help in the illnesses that come with sore throat I hope you check out:
Fever cooling herbs that are safe for children
Herbs and DIY syrup for wet coughs
Fire Cider Recipe to boost immune system
If you are dealing with an illness or an illness with your child and need more support, I hope you consider the online wellness clinic with the Acute Care Consultations that are available.
I hope this helps you on the journey!
God bless you and yours.
Krystina
