A sore throat can range from a mild irritation to a painful, scratchy feeling that makes swallowing difficult. Whether caused by a virus, bacteria, dry air or allergies, sore throats are one of the most common health complaints, especially during colder months.

So, what’s the best way to find relief? Should you reach for a natural remedy or opt for a pharmacy treatment like lozenges or sprays?

What Causes a Sore Throat?

Before choosing a treatment, it helps to understand the root cause. Common causes of sore throats include²:

• Viral infections – like the common cold or flu (most common)
• Bacterial infections – such as strep throat
• Irritants – like smoke, pollution, or dry indoor air
• Allergies – leading to postnasal drip
• Strain – from shouting, singing or talking for long periods

Natural Remedies for Sore Throat Relief^1,2,4

Natural remedies can be effective for mild to moderate symptoms, especially when the sore throat is caused by a cold or dryness rather than an infection. Popular options include:

1. Saltwater Gargle

Gargling with warm saltwater can help reduce inflammation, loosen mucus, and flush out irritants.

• Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water
• Gargle for 30 seconds, then spit out
• Repeat several times a day

2. Honey and Lemon

Honey coats the throat and has antibacterial properties, while lemon adds vitamin C and breaks down mucus. Stir them into hot water or herbal tea.

3. Herbal Teas

Chamomile, liquorice root and slippery elm teas are commonly used to soothe throat irritation and reduce inflammation.

4. Steam Inhalation

Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower helps moisten dry throat tissues and relieve discomfort.

5. Hydration and Rest

Drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest supports your immune system in fighting off the cause of the sore throat.

Note: While natural remedies are generally safe, they may not be enough for more severe infections or persistent symptoms.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments for Sore Throats³

For quicker or longer-lasting relief (especially when pain is moderate to severe) many people turn to OTC options available from pharmacies and supermarkets.

1. Lozenges

Medicated lozenges contain active ingredients such as benzocaine to numb the throat or amylmetacresol to kill bacteria.

2. Throat Sprays

Throat sprays deliver fast-acting pain relief directly to the back of the throat, using numbing agents like phenol or benzocaine.

3. Pain Relievers

Paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and ease general pain, especially when symptoms are part of a wider illness like the flu.

4. Antiseptic Mouthwashes

Some sore throat products include antiseptic rinses that help reduce bacteria in the mouth and throat.

Which Is Best?

Symptom Severity	Recommended Approach
Mild discomfort or dryness	Natural remedies (hydration, tea, honey)
Moderate pain	Combination of natural and OTC (lozenges or sprays)
Severe pain or difficulty swallowing	OTC treatments, consult a pharmacist or GP
Persistent sore throat (>1 week)	See a healthcare professional

If your sore throat is accompanied by a high fever, white patches, or swollen lymph nodes, you should seek medical advice, as these may be signs of a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.

Conclusion

Both natural remedies and over-the-counter treatments can play a role in relieving a sore throat. Natural solutions like warm teas, honey, and steam are gentle and effective for mild cases. For more immediate relief, pharmacy treatments like medicated lozenges and throat sprays can help reduce pain and inflammation quickly.

The key is to listen to your body—and if symptoms worsen or persist, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

References

1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sore-throat/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351640
3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8274-sore-throat-pharyngitis
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318631