Some people swear by raw garlic as a sore throat remedy. There is, however, an inherent problem with the garlic remedy. There is an allergic reaction to it, and not enough clinical trials exist to support its effectiveness. And what about the garlic odour? Is it harmful? And is there enough evidence to support this remedy? Read on for the facts about Garlic for sore throat! And don’t forget to take a good dose of caution.
Raw garlic cures sore throat
A sore throat is a common ailment that can be aggravated by a variety of things, including viruses and bacteria. While many people turn to over-the-counter medications to ease their symptoms, a few home remedies can help relieve the discomfort and inflammation of a sore throat. Garlic, in particular, has antimicrobial and immune-stimulating properties. Its natural oils are particularly helpful for treating a sore throat because they break down mucus..
Common symptoms of raw garlic
If you’re a big fan of raw garlic, you may want to drink some in a hot beverage to ease the pain of sore throat. The antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties of garlic can make this tea a good choice for soothing your throat. Garlic is also effective in treating other cold symptoms, such as a swollen or red face. Drinking warm milk will also help soothe your throat. Similarly, drinking a cup of a mixture of garlic and liquorice root is also a good choice for soothing your throat and reducing swelling.
Allergic reaction to raw garlic
While some people swear by garlic for its pungent flavor and ability to cure a sore throat, some people are allergic to the herb. While garlic allergy is rare, it can be harmful for people with sensitive immune systems. The immune system reacts by producing antibodies to foods it perceives as harmful. In some cases, the reaction may even happen soon after ingestion. In such cases, it is important to consult a doctor right away or call your local emergency service for immediate medical attention.
Insufficient clinical trial evidence
The Cochrane Library, a leading independent review body of scientific research, conducted a review of the literature on garlic and the common cold. The review found insufficient evidence to support the claims that garlic can cure sore throat, but pointed to one study that showed garlic reduced the severity of a common cold. However, more trials are needed to prove the benefits of garlic for this purpose.
Other natural remedies for sore throat
Raw garlic, along with lemon juice, is an excellent home remedy for sore throat. It helps break up mucus and provides pain relief. The vitamin C in lemon helps boost your immune system, too. A teaspoon of lemon juice mixed with warm water will relieve throat discomfort. Another common remedy for sore throat is diluted peppermint oil. Its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties fight off bacteria in the mouth. Fenugreek, a type of weed native to South Asia and Europe, is another great herb to try. Its medicinal benefits are similar to those of aspirin, including anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory effects.
