What did our grandmothers recommend for a sore throat?
Today, we bring you ancient, effective tips!
A sore throat can be quite a nuisance—whether it’s part of a cold, tonsillitis, or just the result of overstrained vocal cords. Nowadays, we have a wide range of modern medications for sore throats, but our grandmothers had to manage differently. They turned to tried-and-true herbal remedies, homemade syrups, and warm compresses to reduce inflammation and bring relief.
You might remember onion syrup, sage gargles, or hot milk with honey. These simple yet effective recipes have been passed down from generation to generation and remain among the most effective natural ways to relieve a sore throat.
In addition to herbs, proper care played an essential role—our grandmothers knew that rest, warmth, and plenty of fluids were key to faster recovery.
Today, when we tend to reach for the first lozenge or pharmacy spray, we often forget the power of nature. Yet, proven herbal remedies not only help relieve pain but also strengthen immunity and are gentler on our bodies. Let’s take a look at the best traditional remedies that can help you tackle a sore throat naturally—you may find that you already know some of them!
How to relieve a sore throat: Proven herbal tips from our grandmothers
Our grandmothers didn’t have modern sore throat medications at their disposal, but they still found ways to manage. Their main weapon was medicinal herbs that not only soothed irritated mucous membranes but also boosted immunity. One of the most effective home remedies was a sage decoction for gargling, which helped disinfect the throat and reduce pain.
Today, we can combine traditional herbal methods with modern remedies that harness the power of nature. These herbs are well known for their beneficial effects on the respiratory system and immune health.
For example, Dr. M.e.g Honey & Lemon is a hot drink containing herbal extracts such as linden, elderberry, peppermint, chamomile, thyme, and mallow.
These herbs are well known for their beneficial effects on the respiratory system and immune health.
The drink is enriched with honey and lemon, enhancing both its flavor and its health benefits. Just steep a sachet in hot water, and you’ll have a delicious beverage to support your health on chilly days. Our grandmothers would have loved such a quick and easy remedy!
ALSO READ: Has a runny nose joined your sore throat? Don't worry. We cover this topic in the article: What helps with a runny nose?
Herbs for a sore throat: Time-tested recipes that still work today
For sore throats, people traditionally used thyme, chamomile, and wild thyme. These herbs have strong anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping with coughing, throat irritation, and immune support. Our great-grandmothers brewed strong herbal teas, adding honey and lemon to enhance their effectiveness while soothing the throat.
Today, we can complement traditional herbal methods with modern natural products. These hot drinks contain a combination of herbs that our grandmothers valued for their ability to ease sore throats, support the respiratory system, and boost immunity. The most effective herbs in these drinks include:
- Linden – helps with colds, promotes sweating, and clears mucus
- Elderberry – has strong antiviral properties and supports immune defense
- Peppermint – refreshes the respiratory tract and soothes throat irritation
- Chamomile – has anti-inflammatory properties and speeds up mucous membrane healing
- Thyme – a traditional herb for coughs and respiratory infections
- Mallow – protects mucous membranes from irritation and aids expectoration
The combination of honey, lemon, and medicinal herbs creates a natural and effective remedy that has been trusted for generations and remains one of the best natural helpers today.
TIP: If you prefer a fruitier taste, try Dr. M.e.g Raspberry, which combines the healing power of herbs with the sweet and mild flavor of raspberries—it not only helps but also tastes delicious!
What helps a sore throat? The secret of ginger and honey
One of the most effective combinations our grandmothers swore by was ginger and honey. Ginger has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, while honey soothes irritated mucous membranes and promotes healing.
Simply grate fresh ginger, pour hot water over it, and let it steep for a few minutes.
After it cools slightly, add honey, and the resulting drink will help relieve throat pain, boost immunity, and warm the body.
Do you still use this remedy today? Grandmothers, we thank you!
What to do for a sore throat in children?
Children’s bodies are more sensitive, so gentle methods were used to treat sore throats in little ones. Warm milk with honey or hot herbal tea helped relieve pain and supported their immune system. Our grandmothers knew that rest, warmth, and plenty of fluids (along with bedtime stories) were essential during colds.
Nowadays, there are effective and tasty remedies for children as well. Try our hot herbal drinks, such as Dr. M.e.g Honey & Lemon or Dr. M.e.g Raspberry - kids will love them!
As a second step, liquid Vitamin C Apricot is almost always a great choice. The sweet taste of every drop will be appreciated by many children. And if you mix the drops into tea, they might not even notice! Grandmothers and moms, did you have similar tricks up your sleeve?
Sore throat medications vs. natural drops and probiotics
Let’s wrap this up in a way that not only restores your energy but also ensures overall balance in your body. Have you ever heard of Vitamin C with probiotics and prebiotics? The combination of probiotics and vitamin C helps not only with digestion but also with immunity and better body regeneration. This way, you won’t feel like you’re on a roller coaster—physically or emotionally. Instead, you’ll find balance, feel lighter, more satisfied, and full of energy. And what more could we ask for today?
We’re not dismissing conventional medicine or traditional sore throat medications, but we admit that our grandmothers’ advice is something we truly value. What about you?
Are you interested in more information about herbs and herbal products?Browse our e-shop and stock up for all situations - not just when you have a sore throat.