If you’ve been sick recently, you know the struggle: you need rest, but the discomfort and coughing from an irritated throat are keeping you from drifting off. Not to mention the constant annoyance your throat gives you when trying to speak, breathe and just get through your day.

What even causes those pesky throat symptoms? It’s probably exactly what you think – the tissues of the tonsils and soft palate are aggravated, causing prolonged discomfort.

Sensitive, aching throats are awful. Fortunately, there are ways to soothe them… and you probably already have the necessary supplies at your disposal. Try one of these methods (or a combination of a few of them) to help achieve comfort.

1Gargle warm water with salt or baking soda

This folk remedy may provide the comfort you’re looking for. Simply dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of salt (or baking soda) in a cup of warm water and gargle (don’t swallow; spit the mixture out). The simple brine works to neutralize acids in the throat and promote fast relief of irritated tissue.

2Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help to balance the pH levels of throat tissues and help soothe a sensitive throat. There are a couple different ways to use ACV for your throat. First, you can gargle apple cider vinegar: mix 1-2 teaspoons of ACV into a glass of warm water, then gargle and spit out. Repeat regularly. Second, you can drink the ACV/water mixture. To make this a little more palatable, add up to a tablespoon of raw honey.

3Honey

Mary Poppins taught us that “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down” but what if the sugar is the relief you need? A spoonful of honey can coat the sensitive tissues of an aching throat, helping to soothe the irritation and discomfort. A 2007 study with children who were suffering from respiratory ailments found that honey provided the most relief compared to other solutions.

4Tea

There’s something soothing about a warm cup of tea, so it’s no surprise that this is where your mind turns when you’re feeling under the weather. Fortunately, there are many types of herbal teas that are specially equipped to aid an aggravated throat. Licorice root, chamomile, honeysuckle, marshmallow root and ginger are all excellent options… plus, there are numerous brands that have their own blends of “throat comfort” teas!

5Essential Oils

Essential oil users will know that there seems to be an essential oil for everything! Certain essential oils seem to help an irritated throat, including eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemon. Simply diffusing these (or a blend including them) may help soothe your throat. Alternatively, add a few drops to boiling water and inhale the steam.

What are your favorite home remedies for soothing an irritated throat?