Are traditional folk remedies for chronic pharyngitis really effective?

In general, some traditional home remedies for chronic pharyngitis may temporarily relieve discomfort but are unlikely to provide a complete cure. Their effectiveness varies from person to person and they do not work for everyone. If in doubt, it is recommended to seek medical advice early. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the remedy involves mild dietary therapy or local care methods—such as drinking Luo Han Guo (monk fruit) tea or gargling with honey lemon water—it may temporarily alleviate symptoms like dryness and the sensation of a foreign body by moisturizing the throat and reducing mucosal irritation. These approaches may be suitable for mild cases, but they cannot eliminate the underlying inflammation, so symptoms tend to recur.

However, if the remedy contains irritating ingredients, unproven herbal substances, or requires long-term and excessive use, it may not only be ineffective but also irritate the throat mucosa, worsening inflammation, and potentially causing allergic reactions or harming liver and kidney function. Such unverified remedies lack safety assurance and should not be tried blindly.

To prevent delaying proper medical treatment, reliance on home remedies should be avoided. If symptoms of chronic pharyngitis persist, individuals should see a doctor to determine the cause. Before trying any home remedy, it is best to consult a physician first to confirm its safety and avoid aggravating the condition through inappropriate management.