Sore throat? Try these clove remedies
What's the story
Cloves, a common spice in most kitchens, have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including sore throats. The active compound eugenol in cloves has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve throat pain. Using cloves as a home remedy is easy and inexpensive, making it an accessible option for many. Here are five ways to use cloves to relieve sore throat symptoms effectively.
Tip 1
Clove tea for soothing relief
Making clove tea is an easy way to reap its benefits. Just boil a few whole cloves in water for about 10 minutes. Strain the liquid and sip it slowly. This tea not only provides warmth but also delivers the soothing properties of cloves directly to your throat. Having this tea two to three times a day can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Tip 2
Clove oil gargle method
Clove oil can also be used as a gargle to relieve sore throats. Mix one drop of clove oil with warm water and gargle several times a day. The eugenol in clove oil acts as an antiseptic and may help kill bacteria causing throat irritation. However, make sure not to swallow the mixture and use it sparingly due to its potency.
Tip 3
Honey and clove mixture
Combining honey with ground cloves makes a soothing paste that can be applied directly on the throat area or consumed as part of warm water or tea. Honey has its own soothing properties that complement those of cloves, creating a dual-action remedy against soreness. Mix half a teaspoon of ground cloves with one tablespoon of honey for best results.
Tip 4
Steam inhalation with cloves
Steam inhalation infused with cloves can help ease respiratory discomfort associated with sore throats. Add a few whole cloves into boiling water and inhale the steam carefully by leaning over the bowl covered with a towel around your head, creating an enclosed space around your face. This method helps deliver aromatic compounds directly into your airways, potentially easing irritation.
Tip 5
Clove lozenges for convenience
Clove lozenges provide an easy way to benefit from cloves throughout the day without preparation each time you need relief from a painful throat. They are available commercially or can be made at home by mixing powdered clove with sugar syrup until it hardens into small candies. These can be sucked on whenever needed, providing prolonged exposure to the healing properties of this spice.