There are various factors that can cause a severe cough and a sore throat - a viral or bacterial infection, excessive screaming or shouting, allergies, changes in weather, excessive smoking, and other ailments like tonsillitis, mumps, measles, influenza or sinusitis. A sore throat accompanied by severe cough can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.
For a sore throat you can try the time tested salt water gargle by mixing half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargling for 5 to 10 minutes every 3 to 4 hours. The salt helps in reducing the inflammation and cutting down the phlegm. Another effective gargle can be prepared by mixing a teaspoon of the herb sage in a cup of boiling water. The mixture must be steeped for 10 minutes then strained before adding a teaspoon each of honey and cider vinegar to it. You can gargle 3 to 4 times a day with this mixture. A cup of warm water mixed with a tablespoon of honey and the juice of a lemon is also a hot favorite. You can sip a cup every hour or two to relieve a painful throat. Apple cider vinegar is said to be very useful too. You can mix a tablespoon each of Apple cider vinegar and honey to a cup of hot water in a mug and sip on it slowly. A teaspoon each of horseradish or horseradish root mixed with honey and cloves (ground) in a glass of warm water is also very effective.
Most of the above mentioned remedies will also provide some relief to a severe cough. Here are some additional remedies for a severe cough. Soak 9 to 10 almonds overnight in water and peel them. Grind to paste and add a teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of butter to the paste. You can have this mixture two to three times a day. Freshly grated ginger is very effective as it is anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and a pain killer, and also acts as a mild sedative. Steep 3 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger in 2 cups of hot water for a few minutes. Add a few drops of lemon juice and drink this infusion. Lemon helps in reducing the production of mucus giving relief from cough. Alternately you can mix a teaspoon or two of turmeric powder in a glass of warm milk and drink it. Turmeric is known to aid in clearing the mucus membrane and curing coughs. Also make sure you increase your fluid intake and keep the throat wrapped warmly.
answered by M W