Does Mint Gum Help with Sore Throat? The Truth Revealed

Sore throats are a common ailment that can cause discomfort and pain. While there are many over-the-counter remedies available, some people believe that mint gum can help to soothe a sore throat. But does mint gum help with sore throat? Let's explore the evidence.

Benefits of Mint Gum for Sore Throats

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Mint contains menthol, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

Menthol can help to reduce swelling and pain in the throat.

Source	Findings
A study published in the journal Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery found that menthol can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the throat.	The study found that menthol was more effective than a placebo in reducing pain and inflammation.
Another study published in the journal Pediatrics found that menthol can help to soothe sore throats in children.	The study found that menthol was safe and effective in reducing sore throat pain in children.

2. Antibacterial Properties

Mint also has antibacterial properties.

These properties can help to kill bacteria that may be causing the sore throat.

Source	Findings
A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found that mint extract can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause sore throats.	The study found that mint extract was effective in killing bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus.
Another study published in the journal International Journal of Food Microbiology found that mint essential oil can inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause sore throats.	The study found that mint essential oil was effective in killing bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

How to Use Mint Gum for Sore Throats

1. Chew Mint Gum Regularly

Chew mint gum several times a day to help soothe your sore throat.

The menthol in the gum will help to reduce inflammation and pain.

| Tips |

|---|---|

| Choose mint gum that contains at least 0.5% menthol. | Menthol is the active ingredient in mint gum that helps to soothe sore throats. |

| Chew the gum for at least 15 minutes at a time. | This will give the menthol time to work its way into your throat. |

| Avoid chewing mint gum if you have a sensitive stomach. | Menthol can irritate the stomach in some people. |

2. Gargle with Mint Mouthwash

Gargle with mint mouthwash several times a day to help soothe your sore throat.

The menthol in the mouthwash will help to reduce inflammation and pain.

| Tips |

|---|---|

| Choose mint mouthwash that contains at least 0.5% menthol. | Menthol is the active ingredient in mint mouthwash that helps to soothe sore throats. |

| Gargle with the mouthwash for at least 30 seconds at a time. | This will give the menthol time to work its way into your throat. |

| Avoid gargling with mint mouthwash if you have a sensitive mouth. | Menthol can irritate the mouth in some people. |

Does Mint Gum Help with Sore Throat? The Truth Revealed