Weather changes may cause certain reactions in our body, including undergoing a cold or a condition like sore throat. These are all normal, as it is a sign of the body fighting against potential infection. While sore throat may actually be caused by body overheat or viral infection, it can be a unpleasant occurence as it may be harder to swallow food and drinks. Therefore, on this week's journal, we will be explaining a few things you can do to improve your condition naturally. Read on!
1. Avoid eating foods that cause heatiness
A vast majority of Indonesian food relies on spices to get their distinctive tastes, including chili. This is one of the reasons why most Indonesian people opt for sambal/chili sauce as a main condiment for their food that is not to be missed. However, when combined with a hot weather and less water intake, consuming a lot of spicy food may not be the best option, as it can leave your parched and worsening your existing sore throat. Therefore, try your best to avoid these types of foods, including fried and other foods that cause heatiness. Consuming them while having sore throat not only make your throat feel drier than it already has, but also make you more uncomfortable and exacerbate your condition.
2. Drink enough water
As Indonesian weather constantly remains in a hot and humid condition all year long, it is very crucial to keep track of your water intake in order to not get dehydrated. This habit is also useful when you have sore throat, as rehydrating frequently can help you soothe the pain, as well as promote healing the inflamed tissue. As an added note, make sure to consume regular or warm water.
3. Consume warm fluids
Continuing the previous point, basically any form of warm liquid can help soothe your sore throat. From warm chicken soup to tea, these variations can be tried to help as a relief. You can choose to have herbal or non-herbal tea, then add honey, which contains antibacterial properties that can help heal the inflamed tissue faster. You can also add some lemon for an extra immunity boost.
4. Gargle with saltwater
Some studies also recommended gargling with warm saltwater to reduce swelling, ease irritation in the throat, as well as flushing out bacteria. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water, and make sure to not swallow it after gargling.
5. Avoid dry air
When having a sore throat, dry air can actually exacerbate your condition and makes your throat uncomfortable. Therefore, you may want to avoid being in an air-conditioned room for too long. Since Indonesia is already a humid country, you can spend some time outside for a change of air. If truly needed, however, you can also opt for a humidifier to be used indoors.
6. Rest
If your sore throat is caused by virus infection, it's better to get some rest and let your body fight the culprit. While it might be hindering you from spending more time to do other things, this step can actually help you to get better faster. Therefore, make sure to insert extra time to rest so you can recover naturally.
7. Take some medication
Lastly, when all else fails, it may be the time to bring out your big guns. Some people tend to seek medication as the last resort, while some find it to be the first option they go to. In case of sore throat, recognize your cause first before taking medications. If it is caused by bacterial infection, taking antibiotics might help. Otherwise, opt for over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory drugs. To help with the itchy, uncomfortablee feeling on your throat caused by dry air, drinking plenty of liquids or using lozenges/cough drops may also come in handy.
If you're a more traditional type who seeks for a more natural cure, Herbana's Balance Madia range offers a Cool Down option. Made from a blend of pure herb extracts, it serves to ease heatiness symptoms and relieve sore throat naturally.
