Having a sore throat can be uncomfortable and irritating. Many people turn to home remedies like gargling salt water or drinking herbal teas to help soothe the pain. Some believe that drinking alcohol, specifically tequila, can also help numb and relieve a sore throat. Here is a look at whether drinking tequila for a sore throat actually works and how to do it safely and effectively.
Can Tequila Help a Sore Throat?
There is some anecdotal evidence that drinking tequila may help temporarily numb and relieve pain from a sore throat. Tequila contains alcohol which can have a numbing effect when it comes into contact with the sensitive tissues of the throat. The agave plant that tequila is derived from also contains chemical compounds called saponins which may have anti-inflammatory properties that could soothe throat discomfort.
However, there is limited scientific research specifically on the effects of tequila on sore throats. One small study found that an agave-derived syrup with a low alcohol content provided some pain relief for patients with pharyngitis (sore throat) but tequila itself was not tested. The alcohol content in tequila of around 40% may provide some numbing sensation but there are no guarantees it will significantly relieve throat pain.
While tequila may temporarily numb the pain, it cannot treat the underlying cause of the sore throat which is most often a viral or bacterial infection. The numbing effects are short-lived and drinking tequila will not resolve the infection or provide lasting pain relief. It may actually further irritate and inflame the throat instead.
Potential Risks of Drinking Tequila for a Sore Throat
There are some potential downsides to drinking tequila as a remedy for a sore throat:
- The high alcohol content can further dehydrate the body which may worsen throat symptoms
- The acidity of tequila may aggravate an already irritated throat
- The numbing effects are very brief and do not treat the underlying cause
- Frequent or excessive consumption can lead to alcohol abuse issues
- Not recommended for people taking certain medications that interact with alcohol
While an occasional sip of tequila may provide very temporary numbness, it is not considered an effective or recommended treatment. The risks likely outweigh any potential benefits. It’s best to rely on more traditional evidenced-based remedies and see a doctor if symptoms do not improve.
How to Drink Tequila for a Sore Throat
If you do choose to drink tequila for sore throat relief, here are some tips to do so safely:
- Drink good quality 100% agave tequila – cheaper low-quality tequila may have added sugars and congeners that can further irritate the throat
- Sip it slowly straight up without any citrus or mixers – this allows maximum contact of the alcohol with the throat tissues
- Do not drink more than 1-2 ounces at a time and limit to only a few times per day – drinking too much can worsen dehydration and throat irritation
- Make sure to drink plenty of warm non-caffeinated fluids like herbal tea or broth to stay hydrated
- Do not drink tequila if you have an allergy, sensitivity or adverse reaction to alcohol
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery when drinking tequila
- Never drink tequila in combination with medication without consulting a doctor first
The tequila should provide a brief numbing or soothing effect as it coats the throat. However, refrain from gargling or swishing it as this may cause choking or aspiration into the lungs.
Other Remedies for a Sore Throat
While tequila may offer minimal temporary relief, there are other safer, more effective remedies for a sore throat to consider first.
Warm Fluids
Drinking warm broths, teas, or warm water with honey can help soothe throat discomfort and keep mucus thin. The warmth can ease pain and the fluids keep tissues moist and prevent dehydration which can worsen symptoms.
Salt Water Gargle
Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and wash away mucus. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle every few hours as needed for relief.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can temporarily alleviate throat pain and reduce inflammation without the risks of alcohol.
Throat Lozenges
Sucking on medicated throat lozenges can provide soothing symptom relief and coat the throat with antibacterial ingredients.
Rest the Voice
Avoiding talking or whispering as much as possible gives the throat tissues time to heal and prevents further irritation.
Humidifier
Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can prevent dryness and ease breathing and coughing.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical treatment if a sore throat:
- Lasts longer than 1 week
- Is accompanied by high fever, headache, nausea or vomiting
- Makes it very painful to swallow
- Has pus or redness in the throat
- Is experienced by infants or people with weakened immune systems
A persistent or severe sore throat may require prescription medication or testing to determine if it is caused by streptococcus bacteria, mononucleosis, or another condition requiring specific treatment.
The Bottom Line
Drinking a small amount of tequila may provide minimal, temporary numbing and pain relief for a sore throat due to the alcohol content. However, it does not treat the underlying cause and may further dehydrate or irritate the throat. Traditional remedies like warm fluids, salt water gargles, lozenges, and over-the-counter medications tend to be safer and more effective options. Drink tequila in moderation or avoid altogether if you have a sore throat. See a doctor if symptoms last more than a week or are severe to get proper medical treatment.