1p kitchen staple that soothes a sore throat - just don't swallow

Temperatures have plummeted this week and at the same time many of us are feeling under the weather as seasonal bugs continue to take hold. Whether it is a mild cold or cough through to full-blown flu it can drag you down.

So anything which will ease the symptoms is worth a try - especially if it can also speed up recovery. Boots Superintendent Pharmacist Claire Nevinson says there are plenty of things which relieve winter illness symptoms, like flu, the common cold and Covid-19 and help prevent the spread to others as Brits prepare for a cold snap.

The pharmacist said winter illnesses such as flu and common colds tend to peak in December to March, with Covid-19 infections expected to rise alongside. Similarly, RSV tends to start in October and last around four to five months, peaking in December.

RSV is a respiratory virus that is a common cause of cough and colds, that can affect the upper respiratory tract. Flu and Covid-19 are also viral infections which can impact the respiratory system.

Although these illnesses can make people feel unwell, managing their symptoms can be very similar, says the expert. Here the expert shares her top tips on how to manage symptoms like a blocked nose, coughing, a sore throat and a fever.

Rest is key

“When you’re sick, your immune system works overtime to fight off the infection. Giving your body time to rest through sleep is one of the most effective ways to recover from a cold. If you are experiencing a runny or blocked nose, a nasal decongestant can help you breathe more freely as you sleep.”

Stay hydrated

"It’s important to stay hydrated when you have a cold to help support your general wellbeing and to help avoid getting dehydrated. Aim to drink at least 6 to 8 cups a day and don’t forget that decaffeinated hot drinks like tea and coffee count towards your fluid intake. A hot lemon and honey drink can also work to help soothe a sore throat.”

Try some home remedies

“Alongside ibuprofen, paracetamol and cough medicines there are a couple of things you can do at home to look after yourself. I would recommend a hot lemon and honey drink or cold and flu sachets, especially if you’re suffering with a sore throat. Remember it is important not to take two products with the same active ingredient at the same time.”

Gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat - it's less than 1p a go

“Gargling warm salt water can help ease a sore through by relieving discomfort and inflammation. To make the solution, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Gargle the liquid for a few seconds and spit it out and be careful not to swallow it. This is not suitable for children.”

Practice good hygiene

“Often, we can share our personal items with others without thinking about it. When you’re unwell, it’s important to avoid sharing items with others to help prevent the risk of spreading infection.

Remember to cough and sneeze into a tissue and be sure to throw any used tissues into the bin and wash hands regularly for at least 20 seconds, being sure that you have covered the palms, fingers, thumbs, back of the hands and wrists.”

Speak to your pharmacist

“If you are feeling under the weather, remember that your local pharmacy team can be on hand to help. With no appointment needed, pharmacy teams are able to offer advice and recommend appropriate treatments to help relieve symptoms. There are some over-the-counter options like decongestants, cough syrups, or throat lozenges that may help you feel more comfortable throughout recovery.”

When home remedies need help

Popular products at Boots to treat coughs and colds include:*

• Boots Anaesthetic Sore Throat Relief Spray, £3.99

• Boots Dual Defence Nasal Spray 20ml, £6.25

• Sudafed Blocked Nose Spray- 15ml, £5.00

• Boots Everyday Vapour Rub 50g, £1.27

• Boots Chesty Cough Relief 100mg/5ml Oral Solution 150ml, £3.99

• Lemsip Max Cold & Flu Lemon Sachets - Paracetamol 10 Sachets, £5.70

• Boots Triple Action Sore Throat Relief 2.4mg Lozenges - Honey & lemon - 24 Lozenges, £5.50

• Boots Max Strength Cold and Flu Day and Night Capsules - 12 day and 4 night, £2.99

*The Superintendent Pharmacist does not endorse any of these products.