Sage & Honey Sore Throat Gargle
A warm, soothing gargle for a scratchy throat
Moderate evidenceHerbs in this remedy
About this remedy
Sage has been used as a throat gargle for centuries, and it is one of the few gargle herbs with trial evidence behind it: in a randomised, placebo-controlled trial, a sage spray eased the pain of acute sore throat more than placebo. This home version pairs a strong sage infusion with honey, which coats and soothes the throat. It is a comfort measure for everyday colds and scratchy throats, used alongside rest and fluids.
Preparation
Steep 1 heaped teaspoon of dried sage, or 6–8 fresh leaves, in 1 cup of just-boiled water, covered, for 10 minutes. Strain, let it cool until comfortably warm, then stir in 1 teaspoon of honey until dissolved.
Dosage
Gargle a mouthful for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat until the cup is used, up to 3–4 times a day while your throat is sore. Make a fresh batch each day.
Cautions
Gargle and spit rather than drinking it — sage contains thujone, which is not safe in large amounts. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and if you have epilepsy. Do not give honey to children under 1, and don't use as a gargle with young children who can't reliably spit. See a doctor if your sore throat is severe or lasts more than a week, or comes with a high fever, a rash, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Research
Hubbert et al., Eur J Med Res, 2006 — Efficacy and tolerability of a spray with Salvia officinalis in the treatment of acute pharyngitis: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Frequently asked questions
What is Sage & Honey Sore Throat Gargle used for?
A warm, soothing gargle for a scratchy throat. Sage has been used as a throat gargle for centuries, and it is one of the few gargle herbs with trial evidence behind it: in a randomised, placebo-controlled trial, a sage spray eased the pain of acute sore throat more than placebo. It falls under Flu Support.
How do you make Sage & Honey Sore Throat Gargle?
Steep 1 heaped teaspoon of dried sage, or 6–8 fresh leaves, in 1 cup of just-boiled water, covered, for 10 minutes. Strain, let it cool until comfortably warm, then stir in 1 teaspoon of honey until dissolved.
What is the recommended dosage for Sage & Honey Sore Throat Gargle?
Gargle a mouthful for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat until the cup is used, up to 3–4 times a day while your throat is sore. Make a fresh batch each day.
Is Sage & Honey Sore Throat Gargle safe? Are there any cautions?
Gargle and spit rather than drinking it — sage contains thujone, which is not safe in large amounts. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and if you have epilepsy. Do not give honey to children under 1, and don't use as a gargle with young children who can't reliably spit. See a doctor if your sore throat is severe or lasts more than a week, or comes with a high fever, a rash, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
What is the evidence behind Sage & Honey Sore Throat Gargle?
Moderate evidence. Hubbert et al., Eur J Med Res, 2006 — Efficacy and tolerability of a spray with Salvia officinalis in the treatment of acute pharyngitis: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study