Sore throat is one of the most common and contagious illnesses especially during certain seasons.  It can be caused by various sources.  It could be a precursor to a runny nose and a cold, which is caused by a virus.  Another cause could be the flu, which is a virus similar to colds but accompanied by aches and pains.  If your sore throat gets worse and feels more painful, it might be strep throat which makes your glands swell or it could also be tonsillitis, where your tonsils are inflamed.

Although it’s best to get yourself checked when you’re feeling quite ill, if you’re only slightly under the weather with relatively mild symptoms, you don’t always need to take antibiotics.  One good alternative is a natural remedy like essential oils.

6 Best Essential Oils for Sore Throat

Citrus

There are many different kinds of citrus essential oils and most of them are effective at alleviating a sore throat.  Bitter orange essential oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, so does grapefruit oil.  Lemon oil in particular, is widely used to unclog the nose and sinuses.  It can also kill germs and prevent inflammation as well as boost the immune system due to its high vitamin C content. You may place a couple of drops of it in your tea, or stir it into some warm water together with a tablespoon or two of honey.

Eucalyptus

Another essential oil popular for treating pain and swelling is eucalyptus.  It’s also effective for eliminating bacteria and viruses.  Aside from that, it can strengthen your body’s antioxidants and immune system, plus it can potentially rid your body’s respiratory system of mucus.  In fact, eucalyptus is a common ingredient for rubs and balms used for clearing the nasal passages and respiratory airways.

You can add several drops of eucalyptus oil to a diffuser and inhale the vapors to enjoy the soothing effect.  You may also rub a drop or two of the oil on your chest or throat.

Rosemary

Known for its pain relief properties, rosemary can help treat the pain associated with a sore throat.  It’s also ideal for expectorating mucus to help cure cough.  At the same time, it supports the body in fighting infections and even fortifying the immune system and providing antioxidant benefits.  Clogged nose from colds are also treated with rosemary oil together with the sore throat.  To use rosemary oil, apply a couple of drops on your throat and chest and massage gently for faster results.

Thyme

Thyme is excellent for preventing and fighting inflammations.  Its potency as an antibacterial oil has also been proven in research studies.  This oil has been depended on through the years by herbalists for its benefits to the immune system and respiration as well as its ability to improve digestion.  This is why it can be relied on to combat and kill the germs that are causing your sore throat.  Just add a few drops of this oil to your favorite soup or beverage such as tea.  You may also mix it with some other essential oils into a diffuser so you can inhale the relaxing vapors.

Peppermint

One of the most versatile essential oils with multiple uses is peppermint.  The cool sensation it evokes thanks to its menthol content helps lessen pain and even diminishes inflammation.  When infection is present, peppermint oil can also aid in treatment.  This has been proven time and again as peppermint is preferred for by many for soothing the throat and mouth.  Massage a couple of drops of the oil on your throat, head, chest and back.  If you wish, you can also take one drop of peppermint oil on your tongue for more immediate relief.

Oregano

While it’s mostly used as a herb for cooking, oil from oregano also has medicinal benefits.  It can fight against many kinds of fungus, bacteria and viruses.  This makes oregano oil effective for treating the inflammation, swelling and pain in your throat as well as for curing cough.  Oregano oil is one of the few essential oils that can safely be taken orally.  Just place one to two drops of the oil underneath your tongue.  You can also opt to mix a couple of drops of the oil with a drink like tea or juice.

Also read: 10 Ways To Remove Common Stains With Natural Ingredients