What is the best remedy for a sore throat?

Gargling with warm salt and the use of a humidifier or vaporizer in the bedroom can help to relieve the pain of sore throat and reduce swelling, according to WebMD. Gargling with salt water hourly or more often if sore throat is accompanied by postnasal drip is recommended.

Staying hydrated is also important for relieving a sore throat, advises WebMD. Fluids work to soothe the throat while thinning secretions. Hot soup or tea can also help. Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke while suffering from a sore throat is important. Nonprescription medications, including throat lozenges and numbing sprays for the throat that have an anesthetic effect, can also be beneficial. Steroid nasal sprays can shrink swollen nasal mucous membranes.