Sore throats are common and often improve with simple home remedies or over- the-counter options, but persistent symptoms warrant a doctor's visit. Here's a detailed guide to what to take for relief, drawing from trusted health sources like Healthline and Mayo Clinic.

Top Home Remedies

These natural approaches can soothe irritation quickly and safely for most adults.

  • Saltwater gargle : Mix ½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water; gargle hourly to reduce swelling and bacteria. The American Osteopathic Association recommends this as a first-line option.
  • Honey : Take 1-2 teaspoons alone or in warm tea—its antimicrobial properties coat the throat. Avoid giving to children under 1 year due to botulism risk.
  • Chamomile or herbal tea : Sip warm chamomile (anti-inflammatory) or peppermint tea to calm inflammation and boost immunity. A 2023 review supports chamomile for throat relief.
  • Lemon water : Combine lemon juice, warm water, and honey for vitamin C and soothing acidity. Ginger tea adds anti-bacterial punch from fresh root.

Pro Tip : Humidifiers or steam from a hot shower add moisture, easing dryness—especially useful in dry February 2026 air.

OTC Medications

For faster pain relief, grab these from your pharmacy shelf.

Type| Examples| How It Helps| Best For| Notes 26
---|---|---|---|---
Pain Relievers| Ibuprofen (Advil), Acetaminophen (Tylenol)| Reduces pain and inflammation| Moderate to severe soreness| Follow dosage; avoid ibuprofen if stomach-sensitive
Numbing Lozenges/Sprays| Cepacol, Chloraseptic| Local anesthetic numbs throat in minutes| Quick scratchy relief| Temporary (20-30 min); sugar-free options available
Antihistamines/Decongestants| Loratadine (Claritin) if allergy-related| Eases post-nasal drip| Allergy-induced throats| Non-drowsy formulas for daytime

In Canada, pharmacists often recommend similar combos like buckley's mixtures.

When to See a Doctor

Most sore throats resolve in 3-7 days, but act fast if you notice:

  1. Fever over 101°F (38.3°C), especially with white patches.
  2. Difficulty swallowing/breathing or rash.
  3. Symptoms lasting over a week—could signal strep (needs antibiotics).

"Gargle often—once an hour if needed—with warm salt water to clear mucus." – UCLA Health

Trending Tips from Forums

On Reddit and health forums in early 2026, users rave about marshmallow root tea (soothes like a hug) and hot sauce flecks (capsaicin numbs pain, per UCLA). One viral thread: "Added cayenne to honey—game-changer for overnight relief!" Always test small amounts. Speculation: With winter bugs circulating, these pair well with rest.

TL;DR : Start with saltwater gargle + honey; escalate to ibuprofen/lozenges. Rest up! Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.