I've got an arsenal of remedies for throat and singing maladies.

I use the hot water, lemon juice, and honey soothant, but also vary it (on the advice of an old-time doctor cohort of my doctor uncle -- who prescribed it for my toddler cousin back in the late 1950s) as warm whiskey, lemon juice, and honey.

VocalZones are in my repertoire as are Entertainer's Secret spray, Zand's Herbal Mist Throat Spray and Singer's Saving Grace throat spray.

If iffy-throatedness comes on suddenly at a pub or a sing, I find that either Bushmill's or Goslings (rum) help and will probably get me through the session -- as will an order of french fries (chips for you Brits) and mayo (maybe with a few splashes of siracha or Tabasco.

Beer and pickled jalapenos also works. For me, at least.

Linn