Sore throats are very common, especially during the cold and flu season. While sore throats often resolve on their own, they can be very uncomfortable. Many people look for natural remedies to help soothe a sore throat and reduce discomfort. Two popular options are lemons and limes.
What causes sore throats?
There are a few common causes of sore throats:
- Viral infections like colds and flu
- Bacterial infections like strep throat
- Allergies
- Dry air
- Smoking
- Yelling or overusing your voice
Viruses are the most common cause of sore throats. Colds, flu, mononucleosis, and even COVID-19 can all cause throat pain and discomfort. Bacterial infections like strep throat are less common but can also lead to very painful sore throats.
Do lemons help sore throats?
Lemons have natural antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The citric acid and vitamin C in lemons can help soothe sore throat pain and reduce inflammation. Lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey makes a popular home remedy for sore throats.
Here are some potential benefits of lemons for sore throats:
- The acidity can help break down mucus.
- Vitamin C supports immune function.
- Antioxidants reduce inflammation.
- Lemon water helps keep the throat hydrated.
- Honey coats and soothes an irritated throat.
Research also shows some evidence for lemon as a remedy for sore throats:
- A study found that lemon juice with honey was effective at reducing throat pain in patients with upper respiratory tract infections.
- Citrus fruits like lemons have been used traditionally for centuries to treat coughs and sore throats.
- One study showed that a lemon drink mix relieved throat pain from chemotherapy better than water.
Lemon is generally considered safe, but the acidity can cause exacerbation of symptoms in some cases. Overall, lemons can be an effective, natural way to obtain some relief from a painful sore throat.
Do limes help sore throats?
Like lemons, limes also contain antioxidants, vitamin C, and compounds that reduce inflammation. Limes have antibacterial benefits as well. Some potential benefits of lime for sore throats include:
- The vitamin C in limes can boost the immune system.
- Limes have anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and pain.
- Lime juice mixed with warm water creates an acidic environment unfavorable to bacteria.
- The antibacterial activity of limes may help fight infection.
- Limes can help keep mucus thin and promote drainage.
There is less research specifically on using lime for sore throats compared to lemon. However, one study did find that lime juice mixed with water provided more symptom relief for sore throats than water alone. More research is still needed, but lime appears to offer many similar benefits to lemon for soothing sore throat discomfort.
Lemon vs. Lime for Sore Throats
How do lemon and lime compare when used as a remedy for sore throats? Here is a breakdown:
| Category | Lemon | Lime |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C content | Higher in lemons | Lower in limes |
| Acidity | Lemons are more acidic | Limes are mildly acidic |
| Antioxidants | Contains more antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids | Has antioxidants but lower amounts than lemon |
| Anti-inflammatory effects | Powerful anti-inflammatory benefits | Possesses anti-inflammatory properties but less than lemon |
| Antibacterial effects | Kills some bacteria that cause sore throats | Also has antibacterial capabilities, possibly less than lemon |
| Research support | Well-researched for sore throat relief | Minimal research specifically on limes for sore throats |
| Availability | Easy to find year-round | Sometimes less available than lemons |
| Taste | Very sour and acidic | Mildly sour and acidic |
As shown in the table, lemons contain higher amounts of vitamin C and acids. They have been more extensively studied for sore throat relief compared to limes. However, limes offer similar benefits, just in smaller amounts. Limes tend to be less sour in taste than lemons.
Should you drink lemon or lime juice when sick?
Drinking diluted lemon or lime juice when you have a sore throat can help provide some symptom relief due to the vitamin C, anti-inflammatory effects, and antibacterial properties. Here are some tips:
- Dilute the lemon or lime juice in warm water. Drinking straight lemon juice can exacerbate throat irritation.
- Add some honey to help coat and soothe the throat.
- Drink lemon or lime juice up to a few times per day when sick.
- Rinse your mouth with plain water after to prevent erosion of tooth enamel from the acidity.
- Suck on lemon or lime wedges throughout the day as well.
Lemon or lime water is safe for most people when consumed in moderation. It provides a low-calorie way to get some vitamins and minerals when unwell.
Risks and precautions
Drinking diluted lemon or lime juice is considered safe for most people when sick. However, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of:
- Can cause stomach upset, heartburn, nausea, vomiting in some people.
- Citric acid can erode tooth enamel over time.
- Not suitable for people with ulcers, canker sores or other oral lesions.
- May interact with some medications, like diuretics or lithium.
- The acidity could worsen symptoms for those with acid reflux or gastritis.
Children and older adults may be more prone to side effects. Monitor for any worrisome symptoms and discontinue use if side effects develop.
The bottom line
Both lemons and limes can be helpful natural remedies when you have a sore throat. Evidence supports the use of lemon, with limes likely providing similar benefits in smaller amounts. The vitamin C, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and antibacterial effects can provide some relief from throat pain and discomfort when you’re sick. Dilute the juice in water, add some honey, and drink a few times a day. But be aware of potential side effects, interactions and precautions. And see a doctor if your sore throat persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.