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Last updated: Jul 03, 2024

10 best herbal tinctures for sore throat

best herbal tinctures for sore throat herbs

Herbal tinctures for sore throat are concentrated liquid extracts of plant-based herbs, used to alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with a sore or inflamed throat.

These natural remedies help by reducing inflammation, soothing the mucous membranes, and providing antimicrobial properties that combat infection-causing bacteria and viruses. Examples of herbal tinctures effective against sore throats include echinacea, slippery elm, and licorice root, which can be taken individually or combined to provide enhanced relief.

By using these herbal tinctures, individuals with sore throats can quickly recover from their illness, resume normal activities, and enjoy improved quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for sore throat, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The compound glycyrrhizin in licorice root has been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with sore throats, making it a popular herbal remedy for soothing irritated mucous membranes. Additionally, licorice's demulcent properties create a protective barrier on the mucosa, coating and calming the throat tissue, providing fast relief from discomfort and inflammation.

This natural approach can be especially helpful in cases where antibiotics or steroids may not be effective.

herbal tinctures for sore throat glycyrrhiza glabra herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for sore throat.

  1. Harvest dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra measure out one part root to two parts vodka by volume.
  2. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for about 5 minutes.
  3. Combine the powdered licorice root with vodka in a clean glass jar filling it to the top leaving about an inch headspace.
  4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for at least four weeks or six months shaking daily for 2-3 seconds.
  5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and labeling.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, interact with the body's natural chemical signals to block the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby reducing inflammation and discomfort in the throat.

Additionally, ginger's warm and soothing effects help to calm the throat and promote a sense of relaxation, providing quick and effective relief from sore throats.

herbal tinctures for sore throat zingiber officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh zingiber officinale roots weighing approximately one pound.
  2. Wash the harvested ginger roots thoroughly under cool running water removing any dirt or debris.
  3. Slice the cleaned ginger roots into thin pieces using a sharp knife ensuring uniform thickness.
  4. Combine the sliced ginger pieces with 80% vodka in a clean glass jar filling it to the top and seal tightly.
  5. Allow the mixture to steep for at least 6 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction of active compounds.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme tinctures helps with sore throat because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which help combat the underlying infection causing the discomfort.

The tannins in thyme also have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing swelling and pain associated with a sore throat. Additionally, the herb's expectorant properties can help loosen and clear mucus from the throat, allowing for faster recovery and relief from symptoms.

By soothing and calming the throat, herbal thyme tinctures provide effective natural relief from the discomfort of a sore throat.

herbal tinctures for sore throat thymus vulgaris herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh thyme leaves from the thymus vulgaris plant at dawn when their essential oils are most concentrated.
  2. Wash the harvested thyme leaves thoroughly in cold running water to remove any dirt or debris gently scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush.
  3. Combine 50 grams of fresh thyme leaves with 250 milliliters of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar covering the mixture tightly with a lid.
  4. Allow the tincture to steep for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar daily to release the herb's bioactive compounds slowly infusing into the solvent.
  5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids and transferring the tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids for storage.

4. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with sore throat because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the irritated tissues in the throat.

The bioactive compounds present in sage, such as rosmarinic acid and camphor, work together to reduce swelling and kill off any underlying infection-causing bacteria or viruses.

Additionally, the astringent properties of sage help to dry up excess mucus and reduce discomfort, allowing for quicker healing and relief from sore throat symptoms.

herbal tinctures for sore throat salvia officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated.
  2. Cleanly chop 100-150 grams of herb material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
  3. Combine chopped herbs with 500 milliliters of 95% ethanol vodka and a dark glass jar, allowing for 4-week maceration period.
  4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container, squeezing out excess liquid from solids, discarding plant material.
  5. Store the filtered tincture in amber glass bottles, labeling with date and dosage instructions, at room temperature for up to 2 years.

5. Melissa officinalis

Lemon balm tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in lemon balm, such as rosmarinic acid and terpenes, help to reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with a sore throat, while also combating the underlying infection.

Additionally, lemon balm's soothing properties can ease the pain and irritation, allowing for a more comfortable recovery and faster healing process.

herbal tinctures for sore throat melissa officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon balm tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for sore throat.

  1. Harvest high-quality fresh or dried melissa officinalis leaves for optimal potency and flavor.
  2. Chop the harvested herb into small pieces and combine it with 60-80% vodka or neutral grain spirit in a clean glass jar.
  3. Steep the herbal mixture in the solvent for 6-8 weeks, shaking the jar daily to ensure even extraction.
  4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and retaining the clear liquid.
  5. Transfer the resulting lemon balm tincture to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids, storing them in a cool dark place for up to 3 years.

6. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena tinctures helps with sore throat because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which quickly soothe irritated mucous membranes and reduce swelling.

The herb's expectorant qualities also help loosen mucus, making it easier to expel and promote healing.

Additionally, lemon verbena's antiseptic and antibacterial properties work together to combat infections that can cause sore throats, allowing the body to focus on recovery and reducing discomfort.

herbal tinctures for sore throat verbena officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon verbena tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh verbena officinalis leaves and stems for optimal potency and flavor.
  2. Chop the herb material into small pieces and combine with high-proof vodka or everclear in a clean glass jar.
  3. Allow the mixture to macerate for at least 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to ensure proper extraction.
  4. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and reserving the liquid extract.
  5. Label the tincture and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years, using 15-20 drops as needed to soothe a sore throat.

7. Corydalis ternata

Yan hu suo tinctures helps with sore throat because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes.

The herb's flavonoids and phenolic acids work together to reduce swelling and discomfort, providing rapid relief from pain and discomfort. Additionally, Yan hu suo's antimicrobial properties help combat infections that often cause sore throats, promoting a healthy environment for healing and recovery.

As a result, sufferers of acute or chronic sore throat can find welcome relief with the use of this natural tincture.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in yan hu suo tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of yan hu suo used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yan hu suo for sore throat.

  1. Harvest corydalis ternata roots in the spring or fall, selecting fresh and dry material free from contaminants.
  2. Cleanse the harvested roots by washing them gently with water, then pat drying with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. Cut the cleaned roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or pruning shears to increase their surface area for extraction.
  4. Combine the cut roots with 70% ethanol in a ratio of 1:5 and transfer the mixture to a glass jar, storing it in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
  5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container, discarding the solids and labeling the tincture with date and ingredients.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help to soothe and calm irritated tissues.

The plant's high concentration of antioxidants also aids in reducing swelling and redness, promoting a faster recovery from throat infections.

Additionally, dandelion's natural expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus, allowing the body to more easily expel infection-causing bacteria and viruses.

herbal tinctures for sore throat taraxacum officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried dandelion roots taraxacum officinale at dawn on a sunny day for maximum potency.
  2. Chop 1 part of the harvested roots into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of vodka or high-proof rum in a clean glass jar.
  3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to extract the active compounds.
  4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids after 2 hours of pressing.
  5. Label and store the final tincture in a cool dark place at room temperature for up to 3 years, dosing as needed to soothe sore throats with 20-30 drops taken sublingually three times daily.

9. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with sore throat because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tincture's active compounds, such as saponins and flavonoids, work to reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, providing fast and effective relief from discomfort.

Additionally, pot marigold's natural antibacterial and antiviral properties help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the soreness, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of complications.

herbal tinctures for sore throat calendula officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for sore throat.

  1. Gather dried calendula officinalis flowers in an amount equaling 30 grams and transfer them to a clean glass jar.
  2. Add 200 milliliters of vodka or high-proof grain alcohol to the jar containing the dried flowers, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for four to six weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar once daily, allowing for maximum extraction.
  4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and retaining the tincture, which should be around 100 milliliters.
  5. Label the prepared tincture and store it in a cool dark place for up to two years, using a dropper to administer five to ten drops three times daily for sore throat relief.

10. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with sore throat because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with a sore throat. When consumed as a tincture, these compounds quickly absorb into the bloodstream and travel to the affected area, providing fast relief from discomfort and scratchiness.

Additionally, chamomile's natural antibacterial properties help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the soreness.

herbal tinctures for sore throat matricaria chamomilla herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for sore throat.

  1. Harvest high-quality matricaria chamomilla flowers in full bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
  2. Dry the harvested flowers using air circulation or low-temperature dehydration method within 24 hours.
  3. Combine one part dried chamomile flowers with three parts vodka or other neutral spirit in a clean glass jar.
  4. Steep the mixture for four to six weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction of active compounds.
  5. Strain and filter the tincture through cheesecloth or coffee filter, discarding solids and transferring liquid to dark glass bottles.

11. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains a compound called carnosic acid, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause infection. When taken orally in the form of a tincture, rosemary's active compounds are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and travel to the affected area, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with sore throats.

This natural remedy helps to soothe and calm the throat, promoting quicker recovery and reducing the severity of symptoms.

herbal tinctures for sore throat rosmarinus officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in rosemary tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves by pinching off the top sets of leaves from mature stems in the morning after dew has dried.
  2. Wash the harvested leaves with cool filtered water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove any dirt or debris.
  3. Combine 100g of the cleaned and dried rosmarinus officinalis leaves with 400ml of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
  4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks, shaking the jar once a week, allowing the tincture to steep and extract its active compounds.
  5. Strain the tincture through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and storing the liquid at room temperature for up to one year.

12. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oils present in fennel, such as anethole and limonene, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in the mucous membranes of the throat, providing quick relief from discomfort.

Additionally, the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of fennel tincture help to combat infection and promote a healthy environment for the throat, allowing it to heal faster and reducing the severity of symptoms associated with a sore throat.

herbal tinctures for sore throat foeniculum vulgare herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated ensuring quality freshness.
  2. Weigh out 250 grams of dried foeniculum vulgare herb and combine it with 750 milliliters of high proof vodka or ethanol.
  3. Store the mixture in a dark glass jar for four to six weeks shaking the jar every other day to facilitate extraction.
  4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and reserve the tincture.
  5. Label the tincture with ingredients dosage preparation date and expiration date ensuring proper documentation and storage.

13. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes.

The menthol content in peppermint tinctures also provides a cooling sensation that helps to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's antibacterial properties help to combat the underlying infection or inflammation causing the sore throat, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.

As a result, herbal peppermint tinctures provide effective relief from sore throats without harsh chemicals or artificial additives.

herbal tinctures for sore throat mentha x piperita herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh peppermint leaves of high-quality mentha x piperita at dawn when essential oils are most concentrated.
  2. Chop the harvested peppermint leaves into small pieces and pack them tightly into a clean glass jar.
  3. Combine 20% peppermint leaves with 80% high-proof vodka in the prepared jar, ensuring the plant material is completely submerged.
  4. Store the tincture mixture in a cool dark place for 6-8 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
  5. After the maceration period, strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding solids and labeling the final product.

14. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with sore throat because its unique blend of antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds works to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated mucous membranes.

The antiviral properties of elder tincture can also help combat the underlying viral infection that is causing the soreness, while the expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the throat, providing rapid relief from discomfort and pain.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide effective and gentle relief for a sore throat.

herbal tinctures for sore throat sambucus nigra herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in elder tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for sore throat.

  1. Harvest high-quality sambucus nigra flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
  2. Clean the harvested flowers by gently rinsing them in cold water to remove dirt debris.
  3. Combine one part sambucus nigra flowers with one part 95% ethanol vodka or grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
  4. Allow the mixture to macerate for six to eight weeks at room temperature shaking weekly to extract active compounds.
  5. Strain and filter the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding solids.

15. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow tinctures helps with sore throat because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

When applied topically or taken as a supplement, yarrow's active compounds work to reduce swelling and combat bacterial infections that can cause throat discomfort. Additionally, yarrow's natural expectorant qualities help loosen mucus and promote drainage, further alleviating congestion and soreness.

As a result, herbal yarrow tinctures offer a natural and effective solution for soothing and healing sore throats.

herbal tinctures for sore throat achillea millefolium herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in yarrow tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried achillea millefolium leaves flowers and stems for a total of two ounces.
  2. Chop the plant material into small pieces and place it in a clean glass jar with a lid.
  3. Pour 80 proof vodka over the plant material ensuring it is completely covered filling to the brim.
  4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for four weeks shaking daily then strain the liquid through cheesecloth.
  5. Transfer the final tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in the refrigerator using as needed.

16. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with sore throat because of its ability to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as mucilage and flavonoids, create a protective barrier that shields the throat from further irritation and inflammation. Additionally, marshmallow tincture has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate pain, providing quick relief from soreness and discomfort.

This natural remedy can be especially effective for soothing sore throats caused by colds, flu, or allergies.

herbal tinctures for sore throat althaea officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried marshmallow root material according to botanical guidelines and identify as althaea officinalis species.
  2. Cleanly chop the harvested althaea officinalis material into small pieces and remove any debris or stems.
  3. Combine one part chopped althaea officinalis with five parts 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar for maceration.
  4. Seal the jar and store it at room temperature for 14 days, shaking the mixture twice daily during the preparation time.
  5. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the solids, then label and store the finished tincture in a cool dark place.

17. Viburnum prunifolium

Blackhaw tinctures helps with sore throat because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively soothe irritated mucous membranes.

The tannins present in blackhaw herb constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, providing instant relief from discomfort and pain. Additionally, the antiseptic and antibacterial compounds in the tincture help combat infections that can cause sore throats, promoting a speedy recovery.

As a natural remedy, blackhaw tinctures offer a gentle and effective solution for alleviating sore throat symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in blackhaw tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of blackhaw used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic blackhaw for sore throat.

  1. Harvest 1/2 cup of dried viburnum prunifolium leaves and stems at the peak of potency for best results.
  2. Combine the harvested ingredients with 100% grain alcohol in a clean glass jar, filling to the top to achieve a ratio of 1:5.
  3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction and infusion.
  4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another glass container, discarding the solids and retaining the liquid extract.
  5. Transfer the final tincture to dark glass bottles, label with dosage instructions and preparation time of 20-30 drops taken up to three times daily as needed.

18. Berberis aquifolium

Oregon grape tinctures helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe irritated tissues and reduce swelling in the throat.

The tannins present in the herb also provide a numbing effect, temporarily relieving pain and discomfort. Additionally, Oregon grape's antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial and viral infections that can cause sore throats, promoting a speedy recovery.

As an natural remedy, it is a popular choice for alleviating sore throat symptoms without harsh chemicals or antibiotics.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregon grape tinctures that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of oregon grape used to make tinctures for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregon grape for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh berberis aquifolium leaves at dawn or dusk when their potency is highest weighing approximately one ounce.
  2. Cleanse and dry the harvested leaves by gently brushing off debris and spreading them out in a single layer on paper towels.
  3. Chop the cleaned leaves into smaller pieces to increase surface area for extraction and place them into a clean glass jar with a lid.
  4. Combine 1 part chopped berberis aquifolium leaves with 2 parts high-proof vodka or grain alcohol filling the jar completely and seal it tightly.
  5. Store the jar in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks allowing the mixture to macerate before straining and decanting the tincture into amber glass bottles.

How to best treat sore throat with herbal tinctures?

The best way to treat sore throat with herbal tinctures is by combining several remedies.

Mix equal parts of goldenrod and slippery elm tinctures to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes. Add a few drops of licorice root tincture to provide anti-inflammatory properties and ease pain. Take 20-30 drops of the blend, three times a day, in water or tea.

This combination can help alleviate sore throat discomfort quickly and effectively.

What ailments similar to sore throat are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to sore throat that are treated with herbal tinctures are cough, tonsillitis, and laryngitis.

Herbs like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe irritated mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Other herbs like elderberry, yarrow, and thyme possess antimicrobial properties that combat infections causing these respiratory issues.

These tinctures can be used alone or in combination to provide fast relief from symptoms.