It may not be cold and flu season, but it’s always beneficial to know how to get rid of a sore throat. Springtime is a popular time of year to experience allergies or general infections, and there’s nothing fun about either scenario. Both tend to result in that scratchy discomfort that you know will lead to unpleasant, sickly feelings. 

Although you may not be able to cure your sore throat overnight, drinking certain herbal teas can accelerate your recovery. Licorice root, slippery elm, peppermint, and more teas may reduce throat swelling and mucus production. Warm teas like these help the throat open and relax, opening the door for healing to begin. While iced beverages may seem better and more refreshing, hot liquids are best for soothing a sore throat. Several studies found that iced beverages can cause throat spasms, which cause more irritation. 

There are many warm brews that will support and soothe a sore throat. We don’t have all of them detailed in this article, but we tried to round up the best ones. Keep reading to learn which teas are most effective at soothing a sore throat. 

Ginger Tea

Ginger root is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb that can help soothe indigestion and sore throat. The gingerols and shogoals in ginger exhibit pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce irritation. Several scientific studies say that ginger may exhibit antimicrobial properties that fight viral infections that cause sore throats. Many of the studies on ginger, though, use ginger extract, which may have a higher dose of antiviral properties than regular ginger tea. More research is necessary to determine if ginger tea has the same effects. 

Licorice Root Tea

There is some research indicating licorice root’s ability to eliminate phlegm and mucus. It may also act as a coating agent, helping to soothe a sore throat. Researchers identified three important substances in licorice root that may relieve sore throat pain: liquilitin, liquiritigenin, and glycyrrhizin. Both liquilitin and liquiritigenin are expectorants, which work to loosen mucus so you can cough it up more easily. Glycyrrhizin acts as a demulcent, which provides the protective coating over the throat, preventing irritation when you swallow. 

Peppermint Tea

Dealing with a scratchy throat and a nasty cough? Bust out the peppermint tea because it is one of the best teas for soothing a sore throat. The menthol in peppermint exhibits antiviral and antibacterial properties. One study found that it has an antitussive effect, meaning it may have the ability to relieve a cough. More research on this is necessary, though. Other benefits of drinking peppermint tea include relieving upset stomach and cleaning out sinuses. 

Marshmallow Root Tea

No, this tea has nothing to do with s’mores, nor does it taste like roasted marshmallows. Marshmallow root tea is great for loosening mucus in the throat, meaning you can cough it up more easily. That may relieve a dry cough so you experience less pain in the throat. A 2018 study surveyed people who took marshmallow root syrup or lozenges to treat a cough. Within 10 minutes, most of the people reported that their throats felt much better and had a reduced urge to cough. 

Green Tea

Although many people drink green tea for the caffeine, it does have powerful antioxidants that help enhance immune function. Many of the anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties come from epigallocatechin-3-gallate. This compound works to reduce inflammatory proteins in the body, accelerating the healing process. Sore throats tend to result from an inflamed pharynx, which can make swallowing a more painful experience. In order to reap the benefits of green tea, you can either drink it or you can gargle with it. If you choose to gargle green tea, please do so for 30 seconds at a time. Make sure the tea is warm, not hot, so that you don’t burn your mouth when you gargle. 

Slippery Elm Tea

Just like licorice root, slippery elm has demulcent properties that provide a protective coating on the throat. The plant’s mucilage contains antioxidants that work to provide soothing properties to calm irritation. In addition to relieving sore throat pain, slippery elm may also soothe an upset stomach. If you experience indigestion, upset stomach, or need relief from coughing, brew a cup of slippery elm tea and drink it until symptoms subside. 

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When you restore and nourish your gut, you may notice that bloating, brain fog, cramps, skin rashes, and hormonal imbalances go away. All of those symptoms are common when a person experiences leaky gut syndrome, which is more common today than ever before. The digestive system cannot properly process the harsh foods in the Western Diet. Because of this, harmful substances or undigested particles permeate through the intestinal walls and into the bloodstream. That’s not good news, in case anyone was wondering.

What Is Leaky Gut?

When particles enter the bloodstream from your digestive system, the body experiences system-wide inflammation. This triggers an immune response all over the body, and failure to address this can lead to food sensitivities, arthritis, IBS, skin issues, and more. Some people don’t think that this can happen, but research proves otherwise. According to several research studies, leaky gut is responsible for many health conditions outside of those that occur in the gut. The gut and immune system are closely connected and making subtle changes can improve overall bodily health, not just digestion.

A dietary change is the best first step you can take when it comes to repairing the gut. It can take time to help remedy the damage, but it is possible to see results. In addition to changing the diet, though, many supplements and herbs can lend a helping hand. If you have leaky gut syndrome, consider the following supplements to improve overall wellness. 

Quercetin

Quercetin is a plant pigment, also known as a flavonoid, that exists in many plants and foods. It is readily available in onions, buckwheat tea, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort, green tea, and American elder. According to research, quercetin works to enhance the function of the intestinal barrier, which can help prevent leakage. It also works to reduce inflammation and boost immune function.

Marshmallow Root

The reason that health experts recommend marshmallow root for people with leaky gut is because it has a high mucilage content. That helps to cover your digestive tract in a protective lining, and it also works to support the gut’s reaction to inflammation. When you combine marshmallow root with ginger, you can help protect yourself against stomach ulcers. Lastly, marshmallow root exhibits an ability to restore the integrity of tight junctions in the intestinal wall.

L-Glutamine

L-glutamine is an essential amino acid that has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Cells that line the intestines use glutamine as fuel to keep them healthy and well. Researchers believe that taking L-glutamine supplements may help repair the intestinal wall and help those with leaky gut. Additionally, glutamine levels drop when people experience too much stress, which can make people with leaky gut vulnerable. That’s another reason to take L-glutamine.

Turmeric

Curcumin, which is the active compound in turmeric, has a proven history of benefitting the body in more ways than one. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-viral properties. It works to boost memory and reduce inflammation in joints and the gut. Curcumin can also improve the function and lining of the intestinal wall. It works to contract the proteins of the intestinal lining, which ultimately squeezes cells closer together. To help repair leaky gut, it’s best to take 10 grams of turmeric per day.

Probiotics

You can’t go anywhere these days without hearing about probiotics. That is because they are that beneficial for your health. If the bacteria in your gut are not beneficial, you run the risk of intestinal permeability. This makes it impossible to heal from leaky gut. Certain probiotic strains work to improve immune function and assist with balancing hormones. One study found that gut permeability decreased in people who supplemented with probiotics. Probiotics are friendly bacteria that you introduce to your gut. They can help your microbiome thrive! When you purchase probiotics, please do research or ask your health care professional for recommendations. The strains do different things, but you also need diversity to create a healthy microbiome. 

Slippery Elm

One of the great things about slippery elm is that it works to increase mucilage content in the digestive tract. It’s similar to marshmallow root in that regard. It also stimulates nerve endings to boost mucus recreation, which counteracts any excessive acidity that exists in the gut. That’s why many people who develop ulcers benefit from taking this herb. Finally, slippery elm provides essential antioxidants to the gut, making it a great addition to your leaky gut diet.

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Digestion is a natural bodily function, yet a lot of people are embarrassed to talk about their digestive health. If digestive discomfort is neglected, serious health problems can occur. A 2014 survey indicated that about 74% of Americans were living with digestive problems. Whether the symptoms are bloating, gas, indigestion, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, a person’s way of life can be interrupted by poor digestion.

If healthy digestion is what you seek, it has to start with the food you eat. If you eat unhealthy foods, then your body usually pays for it. Things like processed foods, meats, or dairy products can take up to three times longer than fruits, vegetables, legumes, or nuts & seeds for the body to digest. When you eat food, enzymes in your saliva begin to break down the food you are chewing. Acids and enzymes continue to break the food down when it enters the stomach. The food then enters the small intestine, where the body takes the nutrients it needs and sends the waste to the large intestine for elimination.

Whether you are trying to lose weight, live healthier, or feel less gassy or bloated, improving your digestion is always beneficial. Use these eight herbs to help naturally improve your digestion.

Chamomile

In addition to calming the nervous system, naturally relieving nausea, and soothing heartburn, chamomile is a great herb for relief from gas and bloating. It aids digestion and can help remedy stomach cramps, IBS, and colitis.

Cumin

Cumin, much like coriander, is a great digestive spice that helps cool the digestive system and boost digestive strength. It also helps with the proliferation of good microbes, and it aids with the detoxification of the digestive tract. It has a powerful taste, but makes up for it with powerful properties that can help reduce gas and bloating.

Fennel Seeds

Fennel seeds have been widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for years. They help to boost lymphatic flow, but they also combat bloating and gas in the digestive tract. Not only do fennel seeds strengthen the digestive system, but they also help alleviate cramping, nausea, and gas.

Ginger Root

Ginger helps to stimulate saliva, bile, and gastric juices, which can help stimulate healthy digestion. The easiest way to reap the benefits of ginger is to brew it into a tea. Pour hot water over freshly sliced ginger root. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of raw, organic honey and consume it; you should feel digestive relief shortly after.

Dandelion

Dandelions are abundant in a variety of vitamins and minerals. They have been used to natural remedy various health conditions, and sometimes people use them as a mild laxative, which can be beneficial for those with constipation.

Slippery Elm

Slippery elm, which is obtained from the inner bark of the red elm tree, may be helpful in remedying irritated tissues in the digestive tract. You can obtain slippery elm powder and make it into a tea. Take 1 teaspoon of the powder, 1 teaspoon of raw honey, and put them in 2 cups of boiling water. You can add cinnamon for added flavor if you like. Drink this concoction once or twice a day.

Orange/Lemon Peels

Both orange and lemon peels help increase the natural secretion of digestive juices. This can help your body break down food more efficiently and can contribute to better waste elimination. Additionally, the peels also improve digestion and can help relieve gas.

Peppermint

Peppermint is an excellent herb for those with IBS because it calms digestive spasms and can relieve gas. Additionally, it helps to relieve stomach pain, especially if you consume it after eating a meal.

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that can either cause diarrhea, constipation, abdominal cramping, or even bloating. Even though symptoms of IBS are uncomfortable, it does not change your bowel tissue or increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer like Crohn’s Disease. IBS is a chronic condition, but people can keep symptoms under control by managing diets, lifestyles, and stress.

Symptoms of IBS

Because IBS can affect each person differently, people will experience varying symptoms, but the primary symptom is abdominal discomfort. If you are a woman, symptoms can worsen during menstruation. Symptoms of IBS can include:

• Abdominal bloating
• Constipation
• Abdominal cramping
• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Mucus in the stool
• Loss of appetite
• Sudden urge to have bowel movements

Natural Remedies For IBS

Exercise

Exercise can be a beneficial remedy for those with IBS because it helps stimulate proper intestinal contractions. Additionally, exercising may help to relieve stress and anxiety, both of which can induce symptoms of IBS. If you don’t exercise regularly, you may want to start with low-intensive exercises like walking, swimming, riding an exercise bike, Tai Chi, yoga, or even Pilates. It is recommended to exercise 30 minutes a day for five days a week to see positive effects.

Drink Water

Hydrate, hydrate, and hydrate some more. When you have IBS, it is important to drink water because energy, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks can make diarrhea worse, and carbonated drinks can induce gas or bloating. It is recommended to drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water each day. If you weigh 150 pounds and divide that by two to get 75, you should be drinking 75 ounces of water every day.

Change Your Diet

It can be beneficial, for IBS symptoms as well as overall health, to avoid processed foods, dairy products (especially if you are allergic to them), meats, fried foods, sugars, salts, and stimulants. These foods can often inhibit proper digestive function or worsen symptoms of IBS. Switching to a more plant-based diet can help regulate gastrointestinal health and eating fibrous fruits and vegetables can help firm up stools or promote bowel movements.

Avoid Certain Foods

Certain foods are notorious for producing gas. It can be optimal to eliminate these foods from your diet to decrease the amount of gas you have. These foods include beans, cabbage, cauliflower, bran, Brussels sprouts, pears, raisins, onions, and the list continues. Additionally, you should avoid carbonated drinks, eat slowly, and chew your food thoroughly.

Use Ginger

Use ginger as a natural remedy any chance you get! Ginger helps to stimulate saliva, bile, and gastric juices, which can help stimulate proper digestion. The easiest way to reap the benefits of ginger is to make tea. Pour hot water over freshly sliced ginger and stir in 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of raw, organic honey. Drink this once or twice a day until IBS symptoms subside.

Slippery Elm

Slippery elm, which is obtained from the inner bark of the red elm tree, may help heal irritated tissues in the digestive tract. You can obtain slippery elm powder and make it into a tea. Take 1 teaspoon of the powder, 1 teaspoon of raw honey, and put them in 2 cups of boiling water. You can add cinnamon for added flavor if you like. Drink this concoction once or twice a day.

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