Sore Throat Remedies While Breastfeeding
Getting a sore throat while breastfeeding made me extra cautious about what I used. Every sip, lozenge, or remedy came with the same question in my mind: Is this safe for my baby? Over time, I found that relief is possible during breastfeeding you just have to stick to gentle, proven options.
Here’s what personally helped me soothe a sore throat while continuing to breastfeed with confidence.
Warm Honey Drinks (My First Choice)
One of the safest and most comforting remedies I used was honey in warm water or tea. Honey coats the throat, reduces irritation, and naturally calms coughing. I avoided very hot liquids and sipped slowly instead.
I personally stick with Nature Nate’s 100% Pure Honey because it’s raw, trusted, and blends smoothly into warm drinks. I used it daily while breastfeeding without any issues for my baby.
Saltwater Gargle (Simple but Effective)
This remedy doesn’t enter your bloodstream, so it’s completely breastfeeding-safe. I gargled warm saltwater two to three times a day, especially when my throat felt swollen or scratchy. It helped reduce inflammation and clear mucus quickly.
Herbal Teas That Are Breastfeeding-Friendly
Certain herbal teas can be soothing and safe while nursing. I chose chamomile and ginger tea in moderation. Chamomile helped calm irritation, while ginger eased inflammation and supported my immune system.
I always made sure the tea was caffeine-free and limited it to 1–2 cups daily to stay on the safe side.
Using a Humidifier at Night
Dry air made my sore throat worse, especially while sleeping. Using a cool-mist humidifier kept my throat from drying out and helped me wake up with less pain.
I used the Crane Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier because it’s quiet, easy to clean, and safe to use in a baby’s room too something that mattered a lot to me as a breastfeeding mom.
Staying Hydrated with Soothing Foods
Instead of forcing solid foods, I leaned on:
- Warm broths
- Soft fruits
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt
These helped keep my throat moist without causing irritation. Hydration alone made a noticeable difference in how quickly my throat healed.
Remedies I Avoided While Breastfeeding
There were a few things I stayed away from:
- Strong medicated cough syrups
- Lozenges with menthol or benzocaine
- Excessive essential oil use
- Apple cider vinegar
When breastfeeding, less is truly more.
When I Knew to Call a Doctor
I didn’t rely on home remedies alone if I noticed:
- Fever lasting more than 2–3 days
- Severe pain or trouble swallowing
- White patches on my throat
- Blood in saliva
In those cases, I contacted my healthcare provider right away.
Final Thoughts

Finding sore throat remedies while breastfeeding required patience and caution but it was completely manageable. Gentle options like honey drinks, saltwater gargles, humidifiers, and plenty of fluids gave me real relief without compromising my baby’s safety.
If you’re breastfeeding and dealing with throat pain, know that comfort is possible—and you don’t have to stop nursing to feel better.
Also Read : Sore Throat Remedies with Pineapple Juice: What Worked for Me