You know when a sore throat is going to strike – you get that sandpapery feeling at the back of your mouth and throat, an irritating itchiness, a bad taste in your mouth and feel the need to wince when as you try to wolf down your favourite bowl of cornflakes!

Sore throats are mainly caused by common viruses or bacteria, the most common being the Streptococcus bacteria.

The bacteria lurk right at the back of your throat so that’s where you need to hit!  The best way of getting a remedy to there is by gargling.  To ensure the remedies are most effective gargle these infusions deep at the back of your throat and hold the head back for several minutes. 

Turmeric (Cucuma longa)

This spice contains curcumin, a strong natural anti-inflammatory.  It also has astringent qualities that help phlegmy throats by drying them out and also antimicrobial properties to stop infection in its tracks.  Take 1 teaspoon of powdered turmeric and mix in a cup of hot water – then gargle.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger is great for soothing inflammation and fighting infection.  You can steep fresh ginger root in hot water to brew a tea.  Alternatively use a teaspoon of ground ginger or a pre-mixed teabag.  Gargle or drink three times a day.

Bayberry (Myrica cerifera)

This herb is a natural antibiotic so any commercially made mouth washes containing the herb are excellent.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

You may not realise it but that Thyme lurking in your kitchen cupboard is not only anti-bacterial and an astringent but is also very stimulating to your immune system.  Mix I teaspoon of the dried herb in a cup of hot water and gargle away.

Cayenne (Capsicum frutescens)

This spice is a natural pain reliever as it contains capsaicin and also is packed with anti-oxidants like good old vitamin C.  Try an eighth of a teaspoon in lemon juice (half a lemon) with a pinch of salt – then gargle.