What can be done about a sore throat in 24 hours or less?

It runs it's course.: If you have a significantly sore throat w swollen tonsils / lymph nodes – see your medical provider & get a streph throat test & culture. Saltwater gargles are very helpful. Mix a teaspoon of salt in 8 oz of warm water – gargle with this several times a day. You can gargle with aloe vera juice a couple of times per day. A mixture of chamomile tea with honey & a small amount of lemon juice is good.