Why is garlic good for a sore throat?
-
Garlic has a potent immune-stimulating effect that prepares the body to fight and heal the infections which cause a sore throat.
-
The natural oils in garlic provide decongestant and expectorant effects that break down the mucus and help expel it from the throat.
-
An active ingredient Allicin is present in garlic kills the bacteria or virus causing a sore throat.
Home remedies using garlic:
Garlic Oil Steam: For this remedy, boil a litre of water and add a few drops of garlic oil into it. Inhale the steam for 10 minutes. Repeat at least once a day.
Honey and Garlic Syrup:Start by crushing 3-4 cloves of garlic and add 1 tbsp of honey to it to make a paste. Consume this mixture 2 times daily. Honey helps in reducing inflammation, swelling and irritation.
Lemon and Garlic Drink:In a glass of lukewarm water, add a tablespoon of fresh garlic juice and lemon juice each. Mix well and sip it. Drink this mixture 2-3 times daily to cure a sore throat.
Garlic Milk:In a cup of lukewarm milk add a teaspoon of crushed garlic and mix well. Warm milk will provide a soothing and relaxing effect on the throat. Drink this concoction before going to bed.
Liquorice Root and Garlic Tea:Boil a cup of water and add a teaspoon of dry liquorice powder to it. Steep for 10 minutes, strain and add a teaspoon of fresh garlic paste. Drink 2-3 times a day. The anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties of liquorice will help in reducing swelling and irritation.
Clove and Garlic Drink:Boil a glass of water and ass 5-8 cloves to it. Steep for a few hours, strain and add a teaspoon of garlic paste. Drink this once a day until you get relief.
Remember to drink plenty of water and liquids to reduce throat irritation. Also, you can use a vaporizer or a humidifier in the bedroom to soothe the swollen and inflamed airways.