Sore throat (Gala Shotha)

Medically Reviewed by Ayuveda Clinical Team (Lead Medical Reviewer: Dr. Nitin Mohite, BAMS, MBA • Medical Logic Developer, UK • Clinical Profile • LinkedIn).

In Ayurveda, a sore throat is characterized as an imbalance in the Kantha (throat) region caused by 'Ama' (toxic accumulation) and weakened 'Agni' (digestive fire). It involves inflammation ('Shotha') often triggered by seasonal transitions or dietary habits that allow Doshas to lodge in the throat tissues, causing pain, congestion, or burning.

Dosha imbalance

Kapha aggravation (manifesting as mucus, heaviness, and congestion)
Vata imbalance (causing dryness, scratchiness, and hoarse voice)
Pitta involvement (resulting in burning sensations, redness, and acute inflammation)

Recommended Ayurvedic herbs

Yashtimadhu (Licorice Root) — Classical Ayurvedic medicinal herb
Tulsi (Holy Basil) — Classical Ayurvedic medicinal herb
Haridra (Turmeric) — Classical Ayurvedic medicinal herb
Shunti (Dry Ginger) — Classical Ayurvedic medicinal herb
Lavanga (Clove) — Classical Ayurvedic medicinal herb

Home remedies

Salt and Turmeric Gargle
Ginger-Honey Soother
Licorice (Mulethi) Tea
Golden Turmeric Milk
Tulsi and Black Pepper Decoction

Dietary recommendations

Sip warm water or herbal teas throughout the day to maintain hydration and flush toxins
Avoid cold drinks, ice cream, and chilled dairy products which increase Kapha
Eat light, warm, and easy-to-digest foods like vegetable broths and mung bean soup
Avoid heavy, oily, fried, or overly spicy foods that can irritate the throat lining
Incorporate warming spices such as ginger, black pepper, and cinnamon into your meals

Classical & Scientific References

Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana & Chikitsa Sthana) — Classical Ayurvedic internal medicine compendium.
Sushruta Samhita (Sharira Sthana & Uttara Tantra) — Surgical and foundational therapeutic treatise.
Ashtanga Hridaya (Vagbhata) — Core clinical principles and therapeutic pharmacology.
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API) & Ayurvedic Formulary of India (AFI), Ministry of AYUSH.

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