Sore throats can be annoying and painful, making it hard to swallow or speak. While sore throats are usually caused by colds, flu or allergies, staying hydrated is essential for managing the uncomfortable symptoms. To soothe a sore throat quickly and naturally, there are certain drinks you can make at home that may provide some relief. With some combination of herbs, spices, honey and other ingredients these simple yet effective remedies could help ease your pain while providing added benefits such as boosting your immune system. Keep reading to discover what drinks help sore throat.
What is sore throat?
A sore throat is an inflammation of the pharynx, which is the area at the back of your throat. It’s a common symptom of many illnesses such as colds, flu or allergies. Signs and symptoms of a sore throat can include pain or discomfort when swallowing, difficulty speaking, hoarseness or loss of voice, swollen glands in the neck or jaw area and redness in the back of the throat.
What causes sore throat?
Sore throats are usually caused by viruses such as colds and flu, but they can also be caused by bacteria or allergies. Other causes include irritants such as cigarette smoke, excessive use of the voice (especially singing) and dry air.
How to treat a sore throat?
The first step in treating a sore throat is to drink plenty of fluids. This helps keep the mucous membranes in your throat moist, which can make it easier to swallow and help soothe the pain. You can also take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.
There are also a variety of home remedies that can help with sore throat relief. These include gargling warm salt water, sipping soothing herbal teas or drinks, using a humidifier in the bedroom and sucking on lozenges or hard candy to relieve pain.
How long does it take for a sore throat to heal?
It usually takes 5-7 days for a sore throat to heal. However, if your symptoms do not improve or you experience severe pain, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can provide further treatment options and ensure that the underlying cause is addressed correctly. Taking steps to reduce stress, get plenty of rest and stay hydrated can also help speed up the healing process.
What drinks help sore throat?
What drinks help sore throat? There are a variety of drinks that can help relieve sore throat symptoms. Most of these drinks contain ingredients known to have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the throat.
Common ingredients include honey, lemon, ginger, turmeric, apple cider vinegar and cinnamon. Here are some simple recipes you can make at home to soothe your sore throat:

Honey and lemon tea
This classic remedy combines honey, lemon juice and hot water. The soothing properties of honey and antibacterial qualities of lemon can help reduce swelling in your throat while providing relief from pain.
Ginger tea
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in your throat. Add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to a cup of hot water, steep for 5 minutes and enjoy.
Turmeric milk
Turmeric is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, as well as its ability to reduce the pain associated with sore throats. To make turmeric milk, heat one cup of milk with a teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick.
Marshmallow root tea
Marshmallow root is a natural remedy that can help soothe the pain and irritation associated with sore throats. Make a tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of marshmallow root in hot water for 5-10 minutes, then strain and drink.
Apple cider vinegar gargle
Apple cider vinegar is a popular remedy for sore throats due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. For a soothing gargle, combine 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1/4 cup of warm water. Gargle the mixture for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Fenugreek tea
Fenugreek is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a great remedy for sore throats. To make fenugreek tea, bring one cup of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds. Steep for 10 minutes before straining and drinking.
Cinnamon tea
Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the throat, as well as its ability to soothe pain. Make a tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder in a cup of hot water for 5 minutes before straining and drinking.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is a popular remedy for sore throats due to its ability to reduce inflammation and soothe pain. To make chamomile tea, steep 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes before straining and drinking.
Gargling salt water
Gargling warm salt water can help reduce swelling and soothe pain in your throat. To make the mixture, add 1 teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Thyme tea
Thyme is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective remedy for sore throats. Make a tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes before straining and drinking.
How much of these drinks should I drink for sore throat?
It’s important to follow the instructions for each recipe, as drinking too much can result in adverse effects. Generally speaking, it is recommended that you drink 1-2 cups of any of these drinks per day when you have a sore throat.
Drinking more than this may not provide additional benefits and could even be harmful if consumed in excess. It’s also important to note that these drinks are not a substitute for medical treatment, so it is important to seek medical advice if your symptoms persist.

Tips for preparing the perfect cup of tea for sore throat relief
Now know what drinks help sore throat, here are some tips on how to make the perfect cup of tea for sore throat relief:
- Start with fresh, filtered water. If possible, use bottled water as it is free from chemicals and other impurities that can affect the flavor of your tea.
- Bring the water to a boil first before adding any other ingredients.
- Add in the tea or herbal remedy of your choice and stir.
- Steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on the instructions for the particular tea or herbal remedy you are using.
- Strain out any herbs or tea leaves before drinking. If using a teabag, remove it after steeping so that it doesn’t become too strong.
- Add a sweetener or milk of your choice to improve the taste, if desired.
Foods that can help reduce discomfort from a sore throat
In addition to drinking herbal teas and other drinks, there are also certain foods that can help reduce discomfort from a sore throat. Eating foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as garlic, ginger, turmeric and cinnamon may help reduce swelling in the throat and provide relief from pain.
Additionally, eating fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in Vitamin C may help boost your immune system and speed up healing. Foods like oranges, broccoli, strawberries and kiwis are all excellent sources of Vitamin C. Eating yogurt or other probiotic-rich foods may also help promote gut health which can further reduce discomfort from a sore throat.
Finally, getting plenty of rest is essential for recovering from a sore throat. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help your body recover and heal.

What drinks should be avoided when having a sore throat?
There are some drinks that should be avoided when you have a sore throat, example:
- Alcohol: Alcohol can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off infection.
- Caffeinated drinks: Drinks such as coffee, tea and soda contain caffeine which can dehydrate you and make it harder for your throat to heal.
- Acidic juices: Juices such as orange juice, grapefruit juice or tomato juice can irritate your throat and make it harder for your body to heal.
- Carbonated beverages: These drinks contain carbon dioxide which can irritate your throat.
- Sugary drinks: Drinks such as soda and energy drinks can weaken your immune system and make it harder for your body to fight off infection.

Conclusion: What drinks help sore throat
Finding the right drink to help relieve your sore throat can be tricky. While there are many drinks that can provide relief, it’s important to remember that each person is different and will react differently to certain remedies. Be sure to follow the instructions when preparing any of the above drinks and avoid anything that could further irritate your throat or weaken your immune system. Additionally, it’s important to seek medical advice if your symptoms persist. With the right treatments and care, you can be sure that your sore throat will eventually go away.
FAQs Sore throat
Can cold drinks help sore throat?
Yes. Discover the soothing power of cool or cold food and beverages in relieving a sore throat. Experience the pleasure of trying various flavors and temperatures to find your ultimate comfort.
Is hot or cold drinks better for a sore throat?
It depends on your preference. Some people find that drinking warm water or tea is more soothing for a sore throat, while others prefer the sensation of cooler drinks such as juices and smoothies. Experiment to see what works best for you.
Is Coca Cola good for a sore throat?
Some believe in the power of this folksy remedy, while others advocate for a combination of Coca-Cola, lemon, and ginger. However, there are those who argue against drinking soda when sick, as it may lead to dehydration during a time when staying hydrated is crucial.
Is Milk good for a sore throat?
Relieve your sore throat and nourish your body with a refreshing glass of milk or a delectable serving of frozen yogurt. These options provide essential nutrients and calories for times when eating may be challenging, such as during illness.
Should you eat ice cream with a sore throat?
A scoop of creamy ice cream can be just the treat you need when a sore throat strikes. Eating ice cream helps to soothe inflammation in your throat and provides relief from discomfort. However, avoid eating too much as it may lead to dehydration.
Is Lemonade good for a sore throat?
Yes, lemon can indeed alleviate the discomfort caused by a sore throat, regardless of how you consume it. Lemons offer many other health benefits as well, making them a valuable addition to your diet. So, how exactly do lemons provide relief for a sore throat? The answer lies in their abundant citric acid content, which plays a crucial role in their soothing properties.
Can we eat rice in sore throat?
Yes, Rice is an excellent source of nutrition and can be digested easily. As such, it is suitable for those experiencing sore throats. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce discomfort in the throat area.
Is hot sauce good for sore throat?
Hot sauces can provide immediate relief from sore throats, as the spiciness of the sauce acts as an analgesic. Additionally, hot sauce contains capsaicin which helps reduce inflammation in the throat area and provides a numbing sensation.
Is chicken soup good for sore throat?
Chicken soup is one of the most popular remedies for sore throat, and with good reason. The warm liquid helps soothe an irritated throat, while the protein-rich chicken provides essential nutrients to help support immune system health. Additionally, the ingredients in chicken soup have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and provide relief from discomfort.
Why are sore throats worse at night?
Sore throats are often worse at night because saliva production slows down during sleep, causing the throat to become dry and irritated. Additionally, allergens such as dust mites and pollen can accumulate in your bedroom while you sleep, further irritating your throat.
Susan Muskat is a professional chef with over 25 years of experience in the culinary industry. After working in some of the most prestigious restaurants in the world, she opened her own restaurant, Moose and Sadie’s, which quickly became a local favorite. Susan is also the author of a blog all about recipes, guidelines, cooking tips, and knowledge from professional chefs. She loves nothing more than sharing her passion for food with others.