A sore throat can cause varying degrees of discomfort for your senior loved one, and it can even lead to difficulty speaking and swallowing. Left untreated, a sore throat may interfere with eating, hydrating, or sleeping. Here are natural remedies that can alleviate sore throat symptoms in seniors.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Combine one tablespoon each of apple cider vinegar and honey in a cup of warm water or prepare a gargle using two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with ½ cup of warm water, and encourage your loved one to use one of these mixtures at least once daily. The acid in the vinegar acts as a potent antimicrobial agent.
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2. Cayenne Pepper Solution
Combine ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper and one teaspoon of honey in a cup of hot water. Stir to dissolve, and serve it to your loved one. Cayenne pepper contains a substance that interferes with pain signals transmitted to the brain.
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile has been used as an alternative medicine for centuries. Tea made from the herb is calming and soothing. The herb can also stimulate the immune system. Your loved one can inhale the steam created by mixing hot water and chamomile for symptomatic relief. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and also acts as a natural astringent.
4. Honey
Honey has long been used for internal ailments and topical wounds. Whether it’s taken by the spoonful or mixed into hot tea, honey has antimicrobial properties that can be helpful in relieving sore throat symptoms. When consumed before bedtime, honey can also quiet a cough, sometimes more effectively than over-the-counter cough suppressants.
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5. Peppermint
The menthol in peppermint oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Spraying a solution containing the oil into your loved one’s mouth can calm coughs and thin mucus.
6. Salt Water
Simply add ½ teaspoon of table salt to a glass of warm water and ask your loved one to gargle with it for effective relief. Many bacteria and viruses don’t tolerate the salty solution. Salt water solutions can also reduce redness and swelling.
Home remedies can be quite effective for preventing and alleviating symptoms of a wide range of conditions commonly found among aging adults. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Amarillo senior care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call us at (806) 803-9991 to create a customized in-home care plan.