A Sore throat occurs when the body immune system reacts to an infection or allergen producing numerous inflammatory chemicals like leukotrienes and histamines, which irritate the membranes. Sore throat is also known as tonsillitis, laryngitis or pharyngitis depending on the place of infection.

Though antibiotics are considered good for bacterial infections, when it comes to viral infections, they are powerless. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics leads to toxic bowel syndrome, breeding of super strains of bacteria and yeast infections which really don’t respond to antibiotics. Hence in cases of viral sore throat,  herbal medicines are considered helpful.

Most herbal remedies boost the natural ability of the body to combat infections. While taking antibiotics, herbs can support the immune system of the body. The following natural remedies could be tried for relief from discomfort due to sore throat.

  •  Gargle 1 tsp. of turmeric powder mixed in a cup of hot water. Turmeric (Cucucuma longa) is an ancient popular spice, used in Ayurveda for natural healing. Turmeric consists of Curcumin, which is a potent anti-inflammatory, in addition to astringent components that dries phlegmy throats and contains antimicrobial agents that battle infections.
  • Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) can be gargled as and when needed or drink ginger tea thrice a day. Ginger alleviates infection and inflammation. Ginger tea can be brewed from a few pieces of fresh root, or using a tsp of ground ginger power or by using a pre-mixed tea bag in a cup of hot water. 
  • Gargle with goldenseal tea. The tea can be made by pouring boiling water over one to two teaspoons of the dried herb and be allowed to steep for ten minutes. Strain and cool, before gargling.
  • • Gargle with Sage plant. Take two teaspoons of fresh chopped leaves, and pour boiling water over them, allow them to steep for ten minutes. Strain and cool, and gargle with the warm liquid.

Gargling can be repeated as required for a maximum of two to three days.

Popularity: 11% [?]

Tags: , , , ,