What causes a sore throat?

In over 90% of cases, it is a virus that attacks the throat and the entire ENT system : coronavirus, rhinovirus, adenovirus, influenza virus, mononucleosis virus, etc. These painful viral conditions are usually treated with painkillers and vitamins to stimulate immunity. In these cases, aromatherapy can be of invaluable help, both in providing relief and in stimulating immunity and fighting the virus responsible for the infection. In all cases, if there is no improvement within 48 hours with the use of essential oils, medical consultation is necessary. When the infection is of bacterial origin, it is often Beta-haemolytic Streptococcus A that is responsible and lodged in the tonsils, which then become very swollen and extremely painful. This bacterium can create tonsil abscesses, and migrate away from the tonsils via the lymphatic circuit to the kidneys, heart and joints, potentially causing serious illnesses that are difficult to treat. Hence the importance of early medical diagnosis and the right antibiotic medication.

What should I do if I have a sore throat?

It all depends on how the pain develops and how intense it is. A sore throat that comes on suddenly (overnight), or is very painful and disabling, should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible, so that the infection can be diagnosed and treated appropriately. The severity of these symptoms may suggest , which must be treated with antibiotics prescribed by the doctor, as there is a high risk of complications. If, on the other hand, the sore throat develops gradually and is part of a rhinopharyngitis (runny nose and throat congestion), it is more likely that the infection is viral in origin, and that it will regress spontaneously in a few days, using only the immune system's self-healing powers and the simple help of essential oils.

A complete synergy for sore throats

If there is no improvement in 24 hours with the simple Lemon/Thyme Thujanol treatment, it is better to use a combination of essential oils for a more powerful action: take this synergy directly into the mouth , in , for a direct action on the mucous membrane (sublingual route).

A combination of essential oils to boost the immune system and support the body

In addition to these essential oils, which can be put in the mouth for a direct effect, you can use another synergy dedicated to use on the skin, to give the body a complementary boost. Immunostimulant essential oils, applied to the skin, are particularly fortifying and useful for controlling the overall state of infection , whether bacterial or viral. They penetrate the bloodstream, reducing fever, preventing inflammatory outbursts, minimising fatigue and speeding up the healing process. Whatever the cause of the sore throat, the following immunostimulant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory essential oils are particularly recommended for cutaneous application: Ravintsara, Eucalyptus Radiata, Niaouli, Laurel, Cajeput or Saro, as well as Ginger, Scots pine and Tea tree .

Chronic sore throat? Boost your communication capacity with essential oils

Some people, such as orators, singers and teachers, have particularly sensitive throats because they are constantly straining their pharyngeal organs. Others have an intrinsic fragility and are sensitive to the slightest gust of wind, complaining of an often hoarse voice and/or frequent and indelicate throat clearing… In these fragile contexts, it is possible to stimulate the "emotional immunity" of this pharyngeal chakra , the seat of speech, often also called the "gateway to liberation and creativity". Warming it releases its energy and the expression of pent-up emotions and unspoken words. The spoken word becomes more accurate, inspiration materialises in creativity, and this energetic release also helps to listen to oneself and therefore to discover and assert oneself. Certain vibrations of essential oils are known to encourage oral expression and warm the throat and vocal cords. Simply apply a drop to the throat and breathe deeply to feel the warmth spread throughout the pharynx . This simple action can be complementary to a therapeutic, anti-infectious and mucolytic approach that may be necessary.

How can I relieve a sore throat naturally?

By The Aroma-Zone editorial team

Published on: Wednesday, August 03, 2022, Updated on: Wednesday, October 07, 2026

Tingling at the back of the throat, pain when swallowing, burning sensations , coughing and sometimes even fever... A sore throat is a frequently encountered symptom that can be painful to deal with during your day. Whether the infection is viral or bacterial in origin, a sore throat can be difficult to experience.

With the right essential oils and a few simple steps, learn how to effectively relieve and soothe a sore throat for a more comfortable life.

Contents

The best essential oils for relieving sore throats

Organic Provence Peppermint Essential Oil

Organic Peppermint Essential Oil

The cooling effect and anti-inflammatory properties of the active ingredients in peppermint essential oil help to manage pain more effectively and make swallowing easier.

How to use: Prepare an inhalation by adding 2 drops of peppermint essential oil to a tablespoon of honey and half a litre of hot water.

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Organic tea tree essential oil

More antiviral than the components of peppermint essential oil or linalool-rich thyme essential oil, the active ingredients in Tea tree essential oil work wonders for a sore throat. These broad-spectrum anti-infective active ingredients (effective against viruses and bacteria) contain paracymene, a highly potent molecule for pain management.

Usage: Add 1 drop of tea tree essential oil to 1 teaspoon of honey or onto a sugar cube. Allow to dissolve in the mouth. Up to 3 times a day, until symptoms improve. For a maximum of 5 days.

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Organic Thujanol Thyme Essential Oil from Provence

Thujanol-type thyme essential oil is particularly effective against throat infections; it has excellent disinfectant properties, provides effective relief and boosts the immune system. It is important to ensure you use the correct chemotype (biochemical variation between different thyme plants), as there are many types of thyme essential oil and some are contraindicated for sublingual use, as they may cause a burning sensation. This essential oil is also known for its anti-streptococcal properties, which provide effective protection against bacterial tonsillitis, as a complement to prescribed antibiotics.

Use: Dilute two drops in a teaspoon of honey or on a sugar cube before allowing it to dissolve under the tongue. Up to three times a day, until symptoms improve. For a maximum of five days. It can also be rubbed onto the throat using three drops diluted in a tablespoon of vegetable oil.

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Organic Eucalyptus Radiata Essential Oil

Eucalyptus Radiata essential oil (also known as Eucalyptus Radiata) contains active ingredients with antiviral and antibacterial properties that help the body fight the viruses and bacteria that cause a sore throat. It is also immunostimulant, helping to boost the body’s defences against external threats.

Directions for use: Add 1 drop of eucalyptus radiata to 1 teaspoon of your choice of vegetable oil and apply to the chest and upper back several times a day for a few days.

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Organic Scots Pine Essential Oil

Renowned for its expectorant, anti-infective and antiseptic properties for the respiratory tract, Scots pine essential oil is an excellent remedy for a sore throat. It soothes a cough, calms the respiratory tract and helps treat infections such as bronchitis or the common cold.

Use: for diffusion or inhalation, use 3 drops to diffuse or inhale over a bowl of hot water. It can also be used for massage when diluted in a carrier oil at a ratio of 2 drops of essential oil to 20 drops of carrier oil.

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What is a sore throat?

A sore throat is an inflammatory condition of the mucous membrane, often associated with an infectious condition. It is generally temporary and viral, but can also be very incapacitating and sometimes require antibiotic treatment.

The throat, anatomically made up of the pharynx and larynx, is a sensitive crossroads. It is used for swallowing and carries the voice. At the back of the throat are the tonsils, which play a very important immune role: they produce antibodies that are active against all the viruses and pathogenic bacteria they detect. This precious lymphoid organ can enlarge and become painful during a respiratory viral infection.

What natural remedies are commonly used for sore throats?

The use of essential oils to relieve a sore throat is common due to their powerful natural properties. Essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree and Provençal thujanol thyme contain antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that make them effective against throat infections. Furthermore, these essential oils can help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and promote a quicker recovery.

However, if you have a severe throat infection, consult a healthcare professional.

To look after a sore throat, discover our throat lozenges, an organic blend of honey, propolis, marshmallow, lemon and peppermint.

What natural remedies can I use for a sore throat?

Essential oils offer a natural and effective solution for relieving sore throats. One of the most common ways of using essential oils is by inhalation, which allows you to benefit from their soothing and antiseptic properties directly in the throat and respiratory tract.

To carry out an inhalation, follow the steps below:

Prepare the hot water: Bring water to the boil in a saucepan and remove from the heat. You can also use hot tap water, but make sure it's not too hot to avoid burns.
Adding essential oils: Add a few drops of essential oils known for their soothing and antiseptic properties, such as Peppermint, Ravintsara, Thyme or Tea Tree. You can choose a single essential oil or create a synergy by blending several oils.
Inhalation: Place your face over the pan of hot water, taking care to keep a safe distance so as not to burn yourself. Cover your head with a towel to create a tent and trap the steam. Close your eyes and breathe deeply for a few minutes, allowing the water vapours, loaded with essential oils, to penetrate your throat and airways.
Repeat: You can repeat this inhalation several times a day, depending on the intensity of your sore throat and your need for relief. Make sure you stay hydrated and get enough rest to promote rapid healing.

By inhaling essential oils regularly, you can soothe sore throat symptoms, reduce inflammation and promote rapid recovery, while enjoying the natural benefits of essential oils for your respiratory well-being.

Some examples of recipes to soothe sore throats

Warnings and precautions for use

The advice given here is not a substitute for medical advice; it is intended as a complementary treatment. There is always a risk of an allergic reaction when using essential oils. It is recommended that you first test essential oils diluted in a vegetable oil and/or the recommended blends on the inside of your elbow: apply 1 drop of the mixture, observe for 20 minutes, then, if there is no reaction, apply another drop after a further 20 minutes. Monitor the reaction for 48 hours. If no redness develops, the essential oil or blend tested may be used as recommended.

It is essential to read the precautions for the use of essential oils before using them, and to check the contraindications for each essential oil by referring to our Essential Oils Guide.

Expert advice

“Additional advice for a sore throat:

Homeopathy: Mercurius solubilis 9 CH, 3 granules every hour for 2 to 4 hours.
Herbal medicine: an infusion of mullein, elderflower or blackberry leaves, 3 to 4 cups per day (2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup, left to infuse).”

Aude Maillard - Doctor of Pharmacy, graduate of the Faculty of Pharmacy in Tours.

Bibliography

Kang HY, Ahn HY, Kang MJ, Hur MH. Effects of aromatherapy on sore throat, nasal symptoms and sleep quality in adults infected with COVID-19: A randomized controlled trial. Integr Med Res. 2023 Dec;12(4):101001. doi: 10.1016/j.imr.2023.101001. Epub 2023 Oct 21. PMID: 38024288; PMCID: PMC10654541.
Thosar N, Basak S, Bahadure RN, Rajurkar M. Antimicrobial efficacy of five essential oils against oral pathogens: An in vitro study. Eur J Dent. 2013 Sep;7(Suppl 1):S071-S077. doi: 10.4103/1305-7456.119078. PMID: 24966732; PMCID: PMC4054083.