Protocol · Infectious/ENT
Sore Throat Support Protocol
Zinc and Vitamin C are the core of this stack, with 3 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Sore Throat Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
5 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Zinc | Amount listed: Zinc lozenges (13–23 mg) every 2–3 hours when awake (max 5 days) | Zinc lozenges may reduce duration of sore throat symptoms | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 1,000–2,000 mg daily during illness | Supports immune function; may reduce cold duration | Not graded yet | ||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Honey | Amount listed: 1–2 tablespoons as needed (not for children under 1 year) | Soothes throat; has antimicrobial properties | Not graded yet | ||
| Elderberry | Amount listed: 15 ml syrup 4 times daily during illness | Traditional remedy with antiviral properties | Not graded yet | ||
| Slippery Elm | Amount listed: Lozenges as needed or tea 3 times daily | Demulcent that coats and soothes irritated throat | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
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How this protocol works
In plain language
A sore throat (pharyngitis) is pain, scratchiness, or irritation of the throat that often worsens when swallowing. It's usually caused by viral infections.
COMMON CAUSES:
- Viral infections (70-80%) - cold viruses, flu, mono
- Bacterial infections (20-30%) - strep throat most common
- Allergies and postnasal drip
- Dry air
- Irritants (smoke, pollution)
- GERD (acid reflux)
- Voice strain
SYMPTOMS:
- Throat pain or scratchiness
- Pain when swallowing
- Swollen glands in neck
- Red, swollen tonsils
- White patches on tonsils (may indicate strep)
- Hoarse voice
HOME REMEDIES:
- Warm salt water gargles
- Honey in warm water or tea
- Cold liquids or popsicles
- Rest
- Humidifier
- Throat lozenges
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR:
- Severe sore throat or difficulty swallowing
- Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
- Rash
- Joint pain
- Breathing difficulty
- Blood in saliva or phlegm
- Symptoms lasting more than a week
IMPORTANT: Strep throat needs antibiotics to prevent complications.
Zinc lozenges* can reduce symptom duration.
Honey* is effective and safe (except for infants).
Most sore throats* are viral and resolve in 5-7 days.
Expected timeline: Viral sore throats typically improve within 5-7 days. Strep throat improves within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics.