Tips for non-prescription symptom relief. You can relieve some of the symptoms of strep throat with home remedies. Over-the-counter pain medications including ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can help relieve pain and inflammation. Gargling with salt water is a natural remedy that can help clear the throat and relieve pain. Throat sprays, many that contain topical anesthetics can provide short-term relief. Lozenges can help keep the throat moist, and those with anesthetics in them may help relieve strep throat pain.