Do Marshmallows Help a Sore Throat? The Surprising Answer!
A sore throat can be a painful and frustrating experience, especially when you’re trying to eat or drink. While remedies such as gargling saltwater or drinking tea with honey are often recommended, have you ever considered trying marshmallows? Yes, marshmallows! But do they really work? In this article, we’ll explore the surprising answer to the question, do marshmallows help a sore throat?
What are Marshmallows?
Marshmallows are a type of candy that have been around for centuries. The original marshmallows were made from the root of the marshmallow plant, which was boiled and then mixed with sugar and egg whites to create a fluffy, sweet treat. Today, however, most marshmallows are made from a combination of sugar, corn syrup, and gelatin.
How can Marshmallows Help a Sore Throat?
While it may seem like an unusual remedy, marshmallows can actually help ease the pain of a sore throat. This is due to the gelatin content in marshmallows, which can help coat and soothe the throat. Additionally, the sugar in marshmallows can provide a quick burst of energy, which can be helpful if you’re feeling run down or fatigued due to your sore throat.
How to Use Marshmallows for a Sore Throat
If you’re thinking about trying marshmallows to ease your sore throat, there are a few ways to do it. You can simply eat a few marshmallows as a snack, or you can try making a soothing marshmallow tea.
Marshmallow Tea Recipe
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of chopped marshmallow root
- Honey, to taste (optional)
To make marshmallow tea, bring one cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan. Add two tablespoons of chopped marshmallow root, cover the pot, and allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and strain out the marshmallow root. If desired, sweeten the tea with honey to taste. Sip the tea slowly and enjoy the soothing effects on your sore throat.
Other Remedies for a Sore Throat
While marshmallows can be a helpful remedy for a sore throat, they’re not the only option. Here are some other remedies you can try:
Gargle with Saltwater
Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gargle for 30-60 seconds. Spit the water out and repeat several times a day to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Drink Tea with Honey
Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe a sore throat. Try drinking tea with honey several times a day.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your throat moist and reduce pain. Try drinking warm liquids such as tea or soup to provide additional comfort.
Conclusion
So, do marshmallows help a sore throat? The answer is yes! If you’re looking for a unique and tasty way to ease your sore throat symptoms, try incorporating marshmallows into your diet. Whether you’re snacking on a few marshmallows or sipping a soothing marshmallow tea, the gelatin and sugar content in marshmallows can help coat and soothe your throat. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Common Questions and Answers
- Q: How do marshmallows help a sore throat?
- A: Marshmallows have a high gelatin content which can help coat and soothe the throat.
- Q: Are there any other remedies for a sore throat?
- A: Gargling with saltwater, drinking tea with honey, and staying hydrated are all helpful remedies for a sore throat.
- Q: Can I eat as many marshmallows as I want?
- A: While marshmallows can be helpful, they’re also high in sugar, so it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.
- Q: When should I contact my healthcare provider about a sore throat?
- A: If your symptoms persist or worsen after trying at-home remedies, be sure to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
References
- University of Michigan Health. Sore Throat. Retrieved from https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/aa8785spec
- Li, X., Liu, L., & Shen, P. (2017). Marshmallow Root Extract Effects on Caco-2 Cells Viability and Expression of Claudin-1, Occludin, and ZO-1 Tight Junction Proteins. Journal of medicinal food, 20(2), 199–205. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2016.3800