18 Essential Oils for Sore Throat Pain

Did you know that essential oils can actually help make a sore throat go away quicker or avoid one all together? It’s true — there are essential oils for sore throat prevention and relief.

Aside from the typically recommended rest, proper nutrition, plenty of liquids, hot teas and gargling, sore throat remedies include tapping in to the natural power of essential oils for sore throat pain.

So what are the top essential oils for sore throat, and how do you use them? Keep reading to find out.

Essential oils for sore throat

The following essential oils for sore throat pain will help kill germs, ease inflammation and speed up recovery from this annoying and painful malady:

1. Peppermint

Peppermint oil is commonly used for treatment of the common cold, cough, sinus infections, respiratory infections, and inflammation of the mouth and throat, and it’s definitely one of the best essential oils for sore throat treatment.

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One reason peppermint essential oil is among the top essential oils for sore throat is it contains menthol, which provides a cooling sensation and a calming effect to the body.

Research has indicated that the antioxidant, antimicrobial and decongestant properties of peppermint essential oil can help alleviate your sore throat. Menthol also helps soothe and calm sore throats as well as coughs, and it can help break up thin mucus.

2. Lemon

Lemon essential oil is known for its ability to help cleanse toxins from any part of the body and is widely used to stimulate lymphatic drainage, rejuvenate energy and purify skin.

Lemon oil is derived from the skin of the lemon and is excellent for sore throats since it is antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, high in vitamin C, increases salivation and helps keep the throat moist.

3. Eucalyptus

Today, oil from the eucalyptus tree appears in many over-the-counter cough and cold products to relieve congestion. The health benefits of eucalyptus oil are due to its ability to stimulate immunity, provide antioxidant protection and improve respiratory circulation.

Originally referred to as “eucalyptol” by the scientific community, the health benefits of eucalyptus oil come from a chemical now known as cineole, which is an organic compound shown to hold astounding, widespread medicinal effects — including everything from reducing inflammation and pain to helping kill leukemia cells!

It’s no wonder it can be one of the steps to beat a cold and one of the best essential oils for sore throat.

4. Oregano

This well-known herb in oil form is a smart choice for defense against a sore throat. There is evidence that the essential oil of oregano has antifungal and antiviral properties.

If you have any doubts that oregano oil can help prevent and treat a sore throat, it has even been shown to kill the superbug MRSA both as a liquid and as a vapor — and its antimicrobial activity is not diminished by heating it in boiling water.

5. Clove

Clove essential oil is useful for boosting the immune system, so it is extremely useful at discouraging and relieving a sore throat.

The sore throat benefits of clove oil can be attributed to its antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties. Chewing on a clove bud can help a sore throat (as well as a toothache).

A study published in Phytotherapy Research found that clove essential oil showed antimicrobial activity against a large number of multi-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis. Its antiviral properties and ability to purify blood increase resistance to a multitude of diseases, including sore throats.

A 2024 study on postoperative patients confirmed clove’s status among the best essential oils for sore throat relief. Postoperative sore throat is a common symptom in many people, and researchers found that patients who gargled clove oil after surgery felt more postoperative sore throat relief.

6. Hyssop

Hyssop was used in ancient times as a cleansing herb for temples and other sacred places. In ancient Greece, the physicians Galen and Hippocrates valued hyssop for helping relieve inflammation of the throat and chest, pleurisy, and other bronchial complaints.

It’s not surprising that hyssop has a long history of medicinal use. The antiseptic properties of hyssop oil make it a powerful substance for fighting infections and killing bacteria.

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Whether your sore throat is viral or bacterial, hyssop is an excellent choice for helping treat a sore throat as well as lung inflammation.

7. Thyme

Thyme oil is one of the strongest antioxidant and antimicrobial essential oils around, and it has been used as a medicinal herb since ancient times. Thyme supports the immune, respiratory, digestive, nervous and other bodily systems.

A 2011 study tested thyme oil’s response to 120 strains of bacteria isolated from patients with infections of oral cavity, respiratory and genitourinary tracts (along with lavender oil). The results showed that the oil from the thyme plant exhibited extremely strong activity against all of the clinical strains.

Thyme oil even demonstrated a good efficacy against antibiotic-resistant strains, and it is one of the essential oils for sore throat that has been used the longest.

8. Juniper berry

With a sweet, woodsy smell, juniper berry essential oil is a popular ingredient in many household cleaning products, aromatherapy blends and fragrance sprays. Today, juniper berry essential oil is also commonly used as one of the best natural remedies for sore throat as well as respiratory infections, fatigue, muscle aches and arthritis.

Juniper berry’s use for sore throat is validated by research that shows juniper berry essential oil actually contains over 87 different active constituent compounds, including strong antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

9. Lavender oil

Lavender oil is renowned for its calming and soothing properties. It also possesses potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it an excellent choice for sore throat relief.

Research has shown that lavender oil can inhibit the growth of various bacteria, including those that commonly cause throat infections.

A 2020 study found that lavender syrup as an adjunct therapy reduced cough severity in COVID-19 patients. The effect size was 0.6 for cough relief, and patients reported higher satisfaction scores.

It also helped relieve sore throat pain, showcasing lavender is definitely one of the top essential oils for sore throat.

10. Echinacea oil

Echinacea oil is derived from the popular immune-boosting herb. It has been traditionally used to fight colds and infections.

Studies have indicated that echinacea can help reduce the severity and duration of upper respiratory tract infections, including sore throats.

A 2009 clinical trial showed that an echinacea/sage spray was as effective as a chlorhexidine/lidocaine spray in treating acute sore throats. Response rates after three days were 63.8% in the echinacea/sage group, compared to 57.8% in the chlorhexidine/lidocaine group.

11. Ginger oil

Ginger oil is known for its warming and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help soothe throat irritation and boost the immune system.

Research has shown that ginger has antimicrobial effects against respiratory tract pathogens, making it beneficial for sore throat treatment.

Research has suggested ginger may reduce sore throat pain by blocking pro-inflammatory proteins. A study out of Japan found that seven out of 10 participants with chronic tonsillitis experienced reduced symptoms of acute tonsillitis after consuming ginger.

12. Bitter orange

Bitter orange oil, derived from the peel of the Citrus aurantium fruit, contains compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These characteristics make it potentially useful for alleviating sore throat symptoms and fighting off infections.

13. Sage oil

Sage oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and astringent properties. Studies have shown that sage can effectively reduce throat pain and inflammation, making it a valuable remedy for sore throats.

As mentioned in the echinacea section, a 2009 study demonstrated that a sage/echinacea spray was as effective as a chlorhexidine/lidocaine spray in treating acute sore throats. Further research has also relayed that a sore throat spray with sage oil can be an effective treatment.

14. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is well-known for its powerful antimicrobial properties. It can help combat the bacteria and viruses that cause sore throats.

Research has demonstrated its effectiveness against a wide range of pathogens, including those affecting the respiratory system.

15. Garlic oil

Garlic oil is packed with allicin, a compound known for its potent antibacterial and antiviral properties. Studies have shown that garlic can boost immune function and help fight off infections, including those causing sore throats.

16. Cinnamon oil

Cinnamon oil contains cinnamaldehyde, which has strong antimicrobial effects. Research has indicated that cinnamon oil can inhibit the growth of various bacteria and fungi, potentially helping to alleviate sore throat symptoms.

17. Wild carrot oil

Wild carrot oil, also known as Queen Anne’s Lace oil, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. While less studied than some other essential oils for sore throat, traditional use suggests it may be beneficial for soothing sore throats and supporting overall respiratory health.

18. Rosemary oil

Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties. Studies have shown that rosemary can help reduce inflammation and fight against respiratory pathogens, making it a potential ally in sore throat treatment.

A 2024 study indicated that rosemary extract — along with lavender — had a positive effect on sore throat and hoarseness, though the study authors noted more research is needed to understand and confirm these effects.

How to use

Essential oils for sore throat can be used in the following ways:

Inhalation

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of plant-derived, aromatic essential oils to promote physical and psychological well-being. One main way to use essential oils for aromatherapy is to inhale the smell or aroma of an essential oil.

When the scent of an essential oil is inhaled, molecules enter the nasal cavities and stimulate a firing of mental response in the limbic system of the brain, including the regulation of stress or calming responses, such as heart rate, breathing patterns, production of hormones and blood pressure.

Aromatherapy can be obtained by using essential oils as direct inhalations, in a bath, in a vaporizer or humidifier, fan, vent, perfume, cologne, or through aromatherapy diffusers.

An easy way to regularly practice direct inhalation is to add one to two drops of an essential oil into the palms of your hands and rub them together to spread the oil. Next, cup your hands over your nose, and take five to 10 deep and slow breaths.

You can also add two to three drops of an essential oil to a cotton ball and place it inside your pillow or in any place that will be easy to smell it.

Another excellent way to soothe a sore throat is by inhaling the steam of boiling water containing a few drops of some of the essential oils for sore throat. Simply fill a big bowl with hot water and drape a towel over your head to create a tent and breathe in the steam. Of course, be careful not to burn yourself.

Oral use

Many essential oils can be ingested by the mouth — however, it is critical to make sure that the oils you use are safe and pure.

Many oils on the market may be diluted or blended with synthetics that are unsafe for ingesting.

By using essential oils in a gargle, you can directly have the essential oils come into contact with the problematic area. Simply add one to two drops of essential oil to half a glass of mildly warm water and gargle for a minute or two. Do not swallow the mixture after gargling.

A safe and effective way to consume essential oils, according to “The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Advanced Aromatherapy,” is to add one drop of oil to a glass of water or in a teaspoon of honey. Other oral application options include using capsules, making a tea and cooking with essential oils.

Topical application

Topical application of an essential oil involves placing an essential oil on the skin, hair, mouth, teeth, nails or mucous membranes of the body. When the oils touch the body, they penetrate rapidly.

Since pure essential oils are so potent, it’s important to dilute them before using them on your body. You can dilute an essential oil by blending it with a carrier oil (such as olive, jojoba, sweet almond or coconut oil) or a natural unscented lotion.

Add five to 10 drops of essential oil to two tablespoons of carrier oil or natural unscented lotion. You can then apply the blended oil or lotion directly to an area of the body that will benefit the throat, like the neck, chest, behind the ears or bottoms of the feet.

Easy, Anti-Sore Throat Steam Inhalation Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 drops clove essential oil
• 3 drops juniper berry essential oil
• large bowl of boiling hot water

DIRECTIONS:

1. Add the clove and juniper berry oils to a large bowl of boiled water.
2. Drape a towel over your head to create a tent over and around the bowl.
3. Relax and breathe in the fragrant steam for 5 minutes. Of course, be careful not to burn yourself.

You can also add 3 drops of lemon oil and 1 drop of eucalyptus oil to your water, gargle for 10 seconds and then drink.

Risks and side effects

Make sure you use therapeutic-grade essential oils for sore throat pain.

Inhaled or topical use of essential oils is generally safer than oral use. Never ingest any essential oils or apply undiluted essential oils to the skin without proper training or medical supervision.

It is critical to understand how best to use essential oils.

Always consult a specialist and conduct a patch test before proceeding with caution as essential oils may react differently for different individuals.

Infants, children, pregnant women, seniors and people with severe illnesses should not use essential oils internally except under the supervision of a physician. If pregnant, check with a professional before using essential oils externally on your body as well.

If your sore throat is severe or lasts longer than one week, seek medical attention.

Conclusion

• Many people deal with sore throat pain throughout the year, leaving many to search for sore throat remedies. It turns out there are essential oils for sore throat prevention and relief.
• Some of the best essential oils for sore throat include peppermint, lemon, eucalyptus, oregano, clove, thyme and juniper berry oils.
• Other essentials for sore throat treatment include lavender, echinacea, ginger, bitter orange, sage, tea tree, garlic, cinnamon, wild carrot and rosemary oils.
• Be sure to only use therapeutic-grade essential oils, and don’t ingest any oils unless they are approved for human consumption. You also want to do a patch test and use a carrier oil when using essential oils for sore throat topically, and be aware of any adverse reaction you may have when using essential oils in any form.