Nearly all of us will have experienced a sore throat at some point. There’s no mistaking that dry, scratchy tickle that heralds something painful is on its way. And once it has taken hold, sore throat symptoms can progress to nasal congestion, swollen glands, hoarseness and trouble swallowing. 

Cold and flu viruses are the most common cause of a sore throat, but bacterial infections can also cause throat pain. Strep throat is one of the most common bacterial throat infections, affecting the back of the throat and the tonsils, and may require antibiotics to treat it. 

A sore throat caused by a virus usually clears up on its own, but there are several natural remedies that can help with sore throat symptoms, and even speed its departure.

Echinacea purpurea is a powerful immune-supportive herb that works by improving the way the immune system responds to bugs, especially the common cold. Echinacea Sore Throat Spray contains sage, as well as Echinacea herb and root. Echinacea in spray form is great because it enables you to directly target the back of the throat and any irritated areas. As with other sore throat remedies, see your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms still persist after seven days. 

Warm it up! Nothing soothes a sore throat quite like a warming drink. Echinaforce Hot Drink with fresh Echinacea extract and tart elderberries is a warming winter drink that can be used to relieve symptoms of cold and flu, or why not create your own?

Hot honey and lemon works wonders for a sore throat. Honey is recognised the world over for its antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties, and lemons are a great source of vitamin C, plus they can provide pain relief and help to break up mucus. Simply mix two teaspoons of honey and one teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice into a cup of warm or hot water.

For further information on menopause visit Shamini and her team at Naturaal Health, 128 Field End Road, Eastcote, HA5 1RJ, or call 020 8 429 1700.