Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
What Are the Best Indian Home Remedies for Sore Throat, and How Do They Provide Relief?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders
Question #11717
204 days ago
265

What Are the Best Indian Home Remedies for Sore Throat, and How Do They Provide Relief? - #11717

Isabella

I’ve been struggling with a sore throat, and I’m looking for Indian home remedies that can help soothe the discomfort naturally. What are the best Indian home remedies for sore throat, and how do they work to reduce pain, irritation, and inflammation? From what I understand, Indian home remedies for sore throat often involve using common household ingredients known for their soothing and healing properties. What herbs or natural ingredients are most commonly used to treat sore throats, and how do they provide relief? I’ve heard that warm salt water gargles are one of the most effective remedies for sore throat. How does gargling with salt water reduce inflammation, clear mucus, and soothe throat pain? Are there any additional ingredients that can be added to enhance its effectiveness, such as turmeric or ginger? Additionally, honey and turmeric are frequently used in Indian remedies for sore throat. How do these ingredients help in soothing the throat, fighting infection, and reducing inflammation? What is the best way to consume honey and turmeric for throat health—mixed in warm water or as part of a tea? Some sources suggest that cloves and cardamom are also effective for sore throats. How do these spices help relieve throat pain, and can they be used in teas or consumed whole for better results? One concern I have is whether Indian home remedies for sore throat are suitable for all ages. Are these remedies safe for children, or should they be avoided in younger individuals? If anyone has used Indian home remedies for sore throat, please share your experience. Which remedies worked best for you, and how long did it take to notice relief from the symptoms? I am looking for detailed and practical information on Indian home remedies for sore throat and how to use them for effective relief. Please share your insights!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

For a sore throat, some of the best Indian home remedies include:

Gargling with salt water: Salt helps reduce inflammation, cleanses the throat, and provides relief from irritation. Honey and warm water: Honey has antibacterial properties and soothes the throat, while warm water provides comfort. Ginger tea: Ginger is anti-inflammatory and can help reduce throat pain and inflammation. Tulsi (Holy Basil) leaves: Tulsi has antimicrobial properties that help soothe and heal the throat. Turmeric milk: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and healing properties, helping reduce soreness and irritation. These remedies work by soothing the throat, reducing inflammation, and fighting infections naturally.

11913 answered questions
78% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
203 days ago
4.83

Indian home remedies for sore throat are often effective in soothing discomfort due to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and pain-relieving properties. Salt water gargles are one of the most common remedies as the salt helps reduce inflammation and draws out excess mucus, offering immediate relief. You can enhance this by adding turmeric or ginger to the water; both have powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, making them great for reducing swelling and fighting infections. Honey is also a popular remedy due to its antibacterial properties, and when combined with turmeric, it can help soothe the throat, reduce irritation, and fight infection. The best way to consume it is by mixing a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of turmeric in warm water or herbal tea, sipping it slowly. Cloves and cardamom are also excellent for relieving throat pain as they have antimicrobial properties and can help ease soreness. You can chew them directly or brew them in tea. For children, some remedies like honey and warm drinks are generally safe, but for younger children, you should avoid raw honey until they are over 1 year old, and always consult a pediatrician for specific advice on their age group. Overall, these remedies work by reducing inflammation, fighting infection, and soothing the throat, providing natural relief without side effects. Many people find noticeable improvement within a few days of consistent use.

13739 answered questions
68% best answers

0 replies

Warm salt water gargles are a classic go-to for sore throats. Just mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle a few times a day. This helps to draw out mucus and reduce inflammation by osmosis, and soothes the irritated throat tissue. For an extra kick, toss in a pinch of turmeric. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties can help knock down that soreness even more.

Honey and turmeric definitely deserve mention. A teaspoon of honey mixed with half a teaspoon of turmeric can be super soothing. Sip it in warm water or tea, and it helps as honey is a natural humectant, trapping moisture. Turmeric fights inflammation and, in combo with honey, makes for a powerful duo against throat irritation and infection.

Ginger’s another powerful remedy. You can grate some fresh ginger and steep it in hot water for a few minutes making ginger tea. It’s warming and soothing, reducing inflammation with its gingerols—good especially if the sore throat feels cold or scratchy. Just feel free to add a splash of lemon juice and honey to that ginger tea for even more benefits.

Cloves can numb pain and fight infections. You can suck on a clove till it becomes soft, or stir some into hot water for a quick clove tea. Exploit their eugenol content, which is analgesic and antibacterial.

As for age suitability, most of these remedies are safe for adults and older children. But with really young kids, especially under one year old, avoid honey due to the risk of botulism. Mild teas can usually work well, but always introduce new remedies slowly and consult a pediatrician if unsure.

Remedies can range in how quickly they bring relief—some find near instant comfort while others take longer. Always tailor your approach to your own body’s responses and needs.

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Kirankumari Rathod
I am someone who kinda grew into Panchakarma without planning it much at first... just knew I wanted to understand the deeper layers of Ayurveda, not just the surface stuff. I did both my graduation and post-grad from Govt. Ayurveda Medical College & Hospital in Bangalore — honestly that place shaped a lot of how I think about healing, especially long-term healing. After my PG, I started working right away as an Assistant Professor & consultant in the Panchakarma dept at a private Ayurveda college. Teaching kinda made me realise how much we ourselves learn by explaining things to others... and watching patients go through their detox journeys—real raw healing—was where I got hooked. Now, with around 6 years of clinical exp in Panchakarma practice, I'm working as an Associate Professor, still in the same dept., still learning, still teaching. I focus a lot on individualised protocols—Ayurveda isn't one-size-fits-all and honestly, that’s what makes it tricky but also beautiful. Right now I’m also doing my PhD, it’s on female infertility—a topic I feel not just academically drawn to but personally invested in, cause I see how complex and layered it gets for many women. Managing that along with academics and patient care isn’t super easy, I won’t lie, but it kinda fuels each other. The classroom work helps my clinical thinking, and my clinical work makes me question things in research more sharply. There's a lot I still wanna explore—especially in how we explain Panchakarma better to newer patients. Many people still think it's just oil massage or some spa thing but the depth is wayyy beyond that. I guess I keep hoping to make that clarity come through—whether it’s in class or during a consult or even during a quick OPD chat.
5
8 reviews
Dr. Nisha Bisht
I am an Ayurvedic physician with over 10 years of real, everyday experience—both in the clinical side and in managing systems behind the scenes. My journey started at Jiva Ayurveda in Faridabad, where I spent around 3 years juggling in-clinic and telemedicine consultations. That time taught me how different patient care can look when it’s just you, the person’s voice, and classical texts. No fancy setups—just your grasp on nidan and your ability to *listen properly*. Then I moved into a Medical Officer role at Uttaranchal Ayurved College in Dehradun, where I stayed for 7 years. It was more than just outpatient care—I was also involved in academic work, teaching students while continuing to treat patients. That phase really pushed me to re-read things with new eyes. You explain something to students one day and then end up applying it differently the next day on a patient. The loop between theory and practice became sharper there. Right now, I’m working as Deputy Medical Superintendent at Shivalik Hospital (part of the Shivalik Ayurved Institute in Dehradun). It’s a dual role—consulting patients *and* making sure the hospital ops run smooth. I get to ensure that the Ayurvedic care we deliver is both clinically sound and logistically strong. From patient case planning to supporting clinical staff and overseeing treatment quality—I keep an eye on all of it. Across all these years, my focus hasn’t changed much—I still work to blend classical Ayurved with today’s healthcare structure in a way that feels practical, safe and real. I don’t believe in overloading patients or selling “quick detox” ideas. I work on balancing doshas, rebuilding agni, planning proper chikitsa based on the person’s condition and constitution. Whether it’s lifestyle disorders, seasonal issues, chronic cases, or plain unexplained fatigue—I try to reach the cause before anything else. I still believe that Ayurved works best when it’s applied with clarity and humility—not overcomplicated or oversold. That’s the approach I carry into every patient room and every team meeting. It’s a long road, but it’s one I’m fully walking.
5
227 reviews
Dr. Kanchana
I am an Ayurvedic Gynaecologist working mostly with women who’ve been struggling silently with their cycles, hormonal issues or other chronic things that they feel just aren’t getting solved with regular meds. I focus on using classical Ayurvedic medicine — not some generic formula, but stuff that’s really matched to their dosha, lifestyle, history etc. Honestly, many of them come to me after trying everything else n still not feeling right... and I totally get that frustration. My main area is managing gynaecological problems like PCOS, irregular periods, heavy bleeding, painful cycles, white discharge, infertility, and even menopause-related discomfort — all through an Ayurvedic lens. I don’t just treat the symptom n send them off... I look at the root cause. Sometimes it’s digestion, sometimes stress, sometimes a history of long medication use — every case is different. I use a mix of Shamana Aushadhi (internal palliative meds), rasayana support, and if needed, Panchakarma therapies (like uttar basti for chronic cases). Lot of people don’t realise how deep Ayurveda can go in women’s health. It’s not just oil massage n detox — it’s a full system that can restore balance when applied right. I work closely with each patient — listen fully, go through their history, explain what’s going on, then offer a practical plan that’s doable even if they’re busy or tired or scared things won’t change. I'm here for women who feel dismissed or unheard... whether it's teenage hormonal acne, repeated UTIs, or things like ovarian cysts or thin endometrium. If your cycle or your system feel "off" but no one's really connecting the dots — that’s where Ayurveda really shines. And I’m happy to help bridge that gap.
0 reviews
Dr. Khushboo
I am someone who kinda started out in both worlds—Ayurveda and allopathy—and that mix really shaped how I see health today. My clinical journey began with 6 months of hands-on allopathic exposure at District Hospital Sitapur. Honestly, that place was intense. Fast-paced, high patient flow, constant cases of chronic and acute illnesses coming through. That taught me a lot about how to see disease. Not just treat it, but like… notice the patterns, get better at real-time diagnosis, really listen to what the patient isn’t saying out loud sometimes. It gave me this sharper sense of clinical grounding which I think still stays with me. Then I moved more deeply into Ayurveda and spent another 6 months diving into clinical training focused on Panchakarma therapies. Stuff like Abhyanga, Basti, Shirodhara—learned those not just as a list of techniques, but how and when to use 'em, especially for detox and deep healing. Every case felt like a different puzzle. There wasn’t always one right answer, you know? And that’s where I found I loved adapting protocols based on what the person actually needed, not just what the textbook says. Alongside that, I got certified in Garbha Sanskar through structured training. That really pulled me closer to maternal health. Pregnancy support through Ayurveda isn’t just about herbs or massage, it’s like this entire way of guiding a mother-to-be toward nourishing the baby right from conception—emotionally, physically, all of it. That part stuck with me hard. My overall approach? It’s kinda fluid. I believe in balancing natural therapies and evidence-based thinking. Whether it's seasonal imbalance, hormonal issues, Panchakarma detox plans, or just guiding someone on long-term wellness—I like making people feel safe, heard, and actually understood. I’m not into rushing plans or masking symptoms. I’d rather work together with someone to build something sustainable that really suits their body and where they’re at. In a way, I’m still learning every day. But my focus stays the same—use Ayurvedic wisdom practically, compassionately, and in a way that just... makes sense in real life.
5
78 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Prasad Pentakota
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. P. Prasad, and I’ve been in this field for 20+ years now, working kinda across the board—General Medicine, Neurology, Dermatology, Cardiology—you name it. Didn’t start out thinking I’d end up spanning that wide, but over time, each area sort of pulled me in deeper. And honestly, I like that mix. It lets me look at a patient not just through one lens but a whole system-wide view... makes more sense when treating something that won’t fit neatly in one category. I’ve handled everything from day-to-day stuff like hypertension, diabetes, or skin infections to more serious neuro and cardiac problems. Some cases are quick—diagnose, treat, done. Others take time, repeated check-ins, figuring out what’s really going on beneath those usual symptoms. And that’s where the detail matters. I’m pretty big on thorough diagnosis and patient education—because half the problem is ppl just not knowing what’s happening inside their own body. What’s changed for me over years isn’t just knowledge, it’s how much I lean on listening. If you miss what someone didn’t say, you might also miss their actual illness. And idk, after seeing it play out so many times, I do believe combining updated medical practice with basic empathy really shifts outcomes. Doesn’t have to be complicated... it just has to be consistent. I keep up with research too—new drugs, diagnostics, cross-specialty updates etc., not because it’s trendy, but cuz it’s necessary. Patients come in better read now than ever. You can’t afford to fall behind. The end goal’s the same tho—help them heal right, not just fast. Ethical practice, evidence-based, and sometimes just being there to explain what’s going on. That’s what I stick to.
5
290 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
50 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Ravi Chandra Rushi
I am working right now as a Consultant Ayurvedic Ano-Rectal Surgeon at Bhrigu Maharishi Ayurvedic Hospital in Nalgonda—and yeah, that name’s quite something, but what really keeps me here is the kind of cases we get. My main focus is managing ano-rectal disorders like piles (Arsha), fistula-in-ano (Bhagandara), fissure-in-ano (Parikartika), pilonidal sinus, and rectal polyps. These are often more complex than they look at first, and they get misdiagnosed or overtreated in a lotta places. That’s where our classical tools come in—Ksharasutra therapy, Agnikarma, and a few other para-surgical techniques we follow from the Samhitas...they’ve been lifesavers honestly. My work here pushes me to keep refining surgical precision while also sticking to the Ayurvedic core. I do rely on modern diagnostics when needed, but I won’t replace the value of a well-done Nadi Pariksha or assessing dosha-vikruti in depth. Most of my patients come with pain, fear, and usually after a couple of rounds of either incomplete surgeries or just being fed painkillers n antibiotics. And I totally get that frustration. That’s why I combine surgery with a whole support plan—Ayurvedic meds, diet changes, lifestyle tweaks that actually match their prakriti. Not generic stuff off a handout. Over time, I’ve seen that when people follow the whole protocol, not just the procedure part, the recurrence drops a lot. I’m quite particular about follow-up and wound care too, ‘cause we’re dealing with delicate areas here and ignoring post-op can ruin outcomes. Oh and yeah—I care a lot about educating folks too. I talk to patients in OPD, sometimes give community talks, just to tell people they do have safer options than cutting everything out under GA! I still study Shalya Tantra like it’s a living document. I try to stay updated with whatever credible advancements are happening in Ayurvedic surgery, but I filter what’s fluff and what’s actually useful. At the end of the day, my aim is to offer respectful, outcome-based care that lets patients walk out without shame or fear. That’s really what keeps me grounded in this field.
5
10 reviews
Dr. Deepali Goswami
I am Dr. Deepali Goswami, BAMS graduate n working mainly around women's health. Right now m running my own clinic where i treat all kind of gyne problems—from irregular periods to PCOD, white discharge, fertility-related issues, menopausal symptoms n lot more that affects everyday life of females. I usually try to keep the language simple while dealing with patients cause honestly half of them come already confused or like really scared of what's happening inside their body... and if I use too much technical terms it just make it worse. I’ve been practicing in this space for couple of years now—don’t remember the exact month, maybe two or three year back? but anyway, what matters is I’ve seen how many of these problems get ignored till they turn serious. That’s something I feel strongly about. My goal is to help women understand their symptoms early and explain how Ayurveda can help gently but properly, whether it’s hormonal stuff or pain or cycle issues. I use classic Ayurvedic concepts like dosha analysis, ritucharya, n yoni vyapad chikitsa wherever it fits, but sometimes modern lifestyle really needs to be factored in too. Like if someone working night shift, no point telling them to wake up at 5am and do abhyanga daily—it won’t work. I’m practical about it. Anyway, I try my best to create a space where women feel heard. Lot of them said nobody actually explained them what’s going on before. And that’s like the saddest part. I feel my biggest strength is really just listening n tailoring the treatment to her routine, diet n stress pattern. Some cases are harder of course... things don’t always go fast, esp when it’s been neglected for yrs. But then Ayurveda’s not magic. It takes a little time—but results feel real n lasting when done right.
5
16 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am an Ayurvedic doctor who kinda grew into this path naturally—my roots are in Kerala, and I did my internship at VPSV Ayurveda College in Kottakkal, which honestly was one of the most eye-opening stages of my life. That place isn’t just a college, it’s a deep well of real Ayurveda. The kind that’s lived, not just studied. During my time there, I didn’t just observe—I *practiced*. Diagnosing, treating, understanding the patient beyond their symptoms, all that hands-on stuff that textbooks don’t really teach. It’s where I learned the rhythm of classical Kerala Ayurveda, the art of pulse reading, and how Panchakarma ain’t just about detox but more about deep repair. I work closely with patients—always felt more like a guide than just a doctor tbh. Whether it's about fixing a chronic issue or preventing one from happening, I focus on the full picture. I give a lot of attention to diet (pathya), routine, mental clutter, and stress stuff. Counseling on these isn’t an ‘extra’—I see it as a part of healing. And not the preachy kind either, more like what works *for you*, your lifestyle, your space. Also yeah—I’m a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence. This kinda allowed me to mix mindfulness with medicine, which I find super important, especially in today’s distracted world. I integrate meditation where needed—some patients need a virechana, some just need to breathe better before they sleep. There’s no one-size-fits-all and I kinda like that part of my job the most. I don’t claim to know it all, but I listen deeply, treat with care, and stay true to the Ayurvedic principles I was trained in. My role feels less about ‘curing’ and more about nudging people back to their natural balance... it’s not quick or flashy, but it feels right.
5
100 reviews

Latest reviews

Samuel
2 hours ago
Thanks a ton, doc! Your suggestion for Takradhara was super helpful. Didnt know where to start otherwise. Appreciate it!
Thanks a ton, doc! Your suggestion for Takradhara was super helpful. Didnt know where to start otherwise. Appreciate it!
Jaxon
7 hours ago
Thanks, doc! Your advice was comforting. I appreciate the clear steps on diet and lifestyle. Definitely gonna try the turmeric tip!
Thanks, doc! Your advice was comforting. I appreciate the clear steps on diet and lifestyle. Definitely gonna try the turmeric tip!
Olivia
7 hours ago
Thanks a lot for the reassurance. Your advice to consult locally makes a lot of sense and definitely calms my nerves. Appreciate it!
Thanks a lot for the reassurance. Your advice to consult locally makes a lot of sense and definitely calms my nerves. Appreciate it!
Samuel
7 hours ago
Thank you so much for the advice! Feeling relieved knowing what steps to take for my son. The clear explanation really helps. 👍🏽
Thank you so much for the advice! Feeling relieved knowing what steps to take for my son. The clear explanation really helps. 👍🏽