In this article:
A dry throat is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, allergies, smoking, and viral infections.
While there are many over-the-counter medications that can help alleviate dry throat symptoms, natural home remedies can be just as effective and much more cost effective.
This article presents the best home remedies for dry throat.
Home Remedies for a Dry Throat
The following natural remedies can help soothe your dry throat.
1. Drink enough water to stay hydrated
The first and most important home remedy for a dry throat is to stay hydrated. Dehydration is one of the most common causes of dry throat, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water throughout the day. (1)
Researchers recommend drinking 3 liters of water for men and 2.2 liters of water for women per day to keep the body hydrated. (2) You can also drink other fluids such as flower teas, juice, and smoothies to help keep your throat moist.
2. Drink a glass of warm water with honey
When it comes to dry throat, honey can play a beneficial role in soothing and relieving the discomfort. A dry throat can often result from various factors, including throat infections.
Honey, being a natural antibacterial agent, can help combat the underlying infection that may be causing the dryness. Additionally, honey’s soothing properties can help reduce throat irritation, providing relief to the dry and scratchy sensation. (3)(4)
How to use:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of honey in a glass of warm water.
- Stir the mixture well until the honey dissolves.
- Take small sips of the honey-water mixture and drink it slowly.
- Enjoy the soothing feeling as the honey coats your dry throat.
3. Drink herbal teas
When it comes to a dry throat, herbal teas can be a comforting and beneficial remedy. Herbal teas, when consumed warm, have a soothing effect on the throat.
The warmth helps to alleviate dryness and provides temporary relief. Additionally, certain herbal teas contain properties that can help reduce inflammation in the throat, further aiding in relieving the discomfort. (5)
Some of the best herbal teas for a dry throat include chamomile, ginger, and peppermint.
a. Chamomile tea
Chamomile, with its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, can be beneficial for a dry throat. It can help reduce inflammation and provide relief from the discomfort brought about by a dry and irritated throat.
Its ability to alleviate pain and fight bacteria can also be useful in combating any underlying infections that may be contributing to the dryness. (6)
How to use:
- Steep some chamomile flowers in hot water.
- Filter them out.
- Sip this nice cup of tea to help soothe your dry throat.
b. Ginger tea
Ginger, a versatile herb known for its numerous health benefits, has shown promising results as a remedy for dry mouth, particularly in patients with type II diabetes.
A clinical trial evaluated the effects of ginger herbal spray on 20 patients with diabetes experiencing dry mouth symptoms. The study found that using the ginger spray significantly increased saliva production compared to both the baseline and placebo groups. (7)
These findings suggest that ginger herbal spray could serve as an effective, affordable, and easily accessible remedy for people with dry mouth.
How to use:
- Peel a small piece of fresh ginger root and cut it into small slices.
- Boil the ginger slices in a cup of water for about 10–15 minutes.
- Strain the ginger water into another cup using a sieve or a tea strainer.
- Sip and enjoy!
c. Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is made from a special kind of plant called Mentha piperita L. and has been shown to be helpful in making you feel better when you’re sick with a cold or sore throat. (8)
How to use:
- Boil water and add a peppermint tea bag or a handful of fresh peppermint leaves.
- Let the tea or leaves steep for 3–5 minutes.
- Remove the tea bag or strain the tea to remove the leaves.
- Allow the tea to cool for a few minutes before drinking.
- Take small sips and let the tea help your throat.
4. Try a saltwater gargle
Gargling with saltwater is another effective home remedy for a dry throat. Saltwater can help reduce inflammation in the throat, which can soothe the dryness and irritation.
How to use:
- Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Gargle with this solution for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
5. Try gum, lozenges, and ice chips
Chewing gum can help deal with a dry throat. (1) Experts recommend chewing sugar-free gum to prevent tooth decay. Furthermore, it is helpful to suck on either lozenges or thin ice chips to help with a dry throat. (9)
The act of sucking stimulates the salivary glands, leading to an increase in saliva flow. The increased saliva helps to moisturize the throat, providing temporary relief from dryness and soothing any discomfort.
6. Avoid things that may irritate your throat
If you have a dry throat, it’s essential to avoid irritants or allergens that can make the condition worse. Smoking, air pollution, and allergens such as dust and pollen can irritate your throat and cause dryness. (10)
If you’re exposed to irritants, wear a mask to protect your throat. Also, it is best to avoid certain foods and drinks that contain caffeine, acid, alcohol, and sugar. Instead, you should eat foods that are soft and not very dry. (1)
7. Take a shower with steam
Taking a steamy shower is another home remedy for a dry throat. The steam from the shower can help hydrate your throat and reduce inflammation.
8. Do not breathe with your mouth
It is advised to not breathe with your mouth, especially when dealing with a dry throat. (1)
Mouth breathing has been associated with dry lips and throat. When you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose, the air bypasses the natural humidifying and filtering mechanisms of the nasal passage.
This can lead to increased evaporation of moisture from the lips and throat, resulting in dryness and discomfort. So, to avoid this, breathe via nose only. (11)
9. Get a humidifier for your room
Dry air can cause your throat to become dry and irritated. (12) Using a humidifier in your home can help keep the air moist, which can prevent your throat from drying out. (1)
Note: Experts recommend keeping your home’s humidity level between 30% and 50% to help reduce the dryness in the air.
10. Give your voice some rest
Finally, resting your voice can help alleviate a dry throat. Talking for long periods or yelling can strain your vocal cords and cause dryness and irritation.
Experts recommend taking breaks from talking or using a whisper voice to rest your vocal cords.
Preventing a Dry Throat
Here are some things you can do to prevent a dry throat from occurring in the first place: (1)
- Breathe through your nose instead of your mouth.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Treat underlying conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea.
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air.
- Eliminate allergen sources.
- Take voice training lessons to reduce strain on your vocal cords.
Most-Asked Questions About a Dry Throat
How long does a dry throat last?
The duration of a dry throat can vary depending on the underlying cause. If it’s caused by mild dehydration, it may go away after you drink enough fluids.
Can a dry throat be a sign of a more serious condition?
Yes, a dry throat can be a symptom of a more serious condition.
Can drinking alcohol cause a dry throat?
Yes, drinking alcohol can lead to a dry throat.
Is it safe to use home remedies for a dry throat?
Yes, home remedies for a dry throat are generally safe. However, if you have any underlying health conditions or are pregnant, consult with a healthcare professional before trying any home remedies.
Final Word
A dry throat can be uncomfortable and annoying, but thankfully, there are many effective home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms.
From drinking enough water to trying herbal teas and using a humidifier, these natural remedies can be a great alternative to over-the-counter medications. However, if your dry throat persists or worsens, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Continue ReadingDry Throat: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Treatment, and More
- Was this article helpful?
- YES, THANKS!NOT REALLY
