Chinese New Year is widely known to be the only time of the year where we can feast on our favourite CNY cookies without worrying about the calories (for now).
But aside from the extra pounds, the part of our body that has the most to lose is the throat, where it will become sore thanks to the “heatiness” of CNY cookies.
As we all know having a sore throat really makes it difficult for us to fully enjoy our food, here are 5 DIY remedies which you can try to bid goodbye to it!
1. Salt water
Remember the time where our mothers would constantly force us to gargle a cup of salt water whenever we had a sore throat?
Well, it turns out that there’s scientific basis to it!
Salt has the ability to kill the germs that is causing the pain in your throat, thus providing quick (though uncomfortable) relief.
All you need is to mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and gargle the pain away.
2. Honey
Honey has antibacterial properties which aid in getting rid of bacteria/germs residing in your throat.
However, it’s important to use the right kind of honey too.
Honey with added sugars might worsen your sore throat, so it’s best to use Manuka honey.
Take a spoonful, swallow it and let it sit in your throat for some time before drinking any other liquids.
3. Hot sauce
They often say, “Don’t fight fire with fire”, but the same can’t be said when it comes to curing sore throats.
Like honey and salt, hot sauce contains the chemical compound capsaicin, which has an anti-inflammatory property and helps in reducing the pain.
Fun fact: Did you know that capsaicin can be found in pain patches and creams too? Check out your nearest pharmacy to find out more!
4. “On-guard” essential oils
While some may be wary towards the effectiveness of essential oils, “on-guard” essential oil is a different type of oil that is slightly spicy and tingly to the touch.
“On-guard” essential oil is a mix of sweet orange essential oil, rosemary, clove, cinnamon and eucalyptus that, when combined, results in a strong disinfectant concoction, making it a great remedy to “clean and disinfect” the throat.
Mix a few drops of “on-guard” essential oil with a tablespoon of water and stir it well before gargling and swallowing it. You can also put some to the area below your tongue for a quicker absorption.
5. Boiled Coca-Cola with sliced ginger
Apparently, this odd mixture is a 2000 year old ancient Chinese remedy, where brown sugar was used before Coca-Cola came into the scene in 1892.
Phosphoric acid in a (flat) Coke helps with digestion, appetite, and awakens your senses. Ginger, on the other hand, helps with alleviating symptoms of a blocked nose, cough and sore throat.
Pro tip: Don’t boil the mixture for too long or it will scorch your pan.
Did you find these remedies helpful? Share with us any remedies that help in soothing sore throats!
Disclaimer: The following remedies are to be done at your own risk. If you experience any adverse effects, seek medical attention immediately.
READ ALSO: Heng Ong Huat! 5 Creative Ads You Must Watch Before CNY Ends
Cover images via AsiaOne and TWO-KG
Editor: Sarah Yeoh
