Sore throats affect everyone at one point or another. Going to the drugstore to peruse the array of throat lozenges can be overwhelming. Herbal remedies are simple and effective and have centuries of use to back up their claims.
A number of herbs are effective for treatment of sore throats. These include:
- Slippery Elm
- Sage
- Lemon
Slippery Elm - Ulmus Fulva
Slippery elm is the inner bark of the elm tree. It's action as a soothing demulcent makes it ideal for sore throat. It has been used for centuries to treat std's, acid reflux, stomach upset and any conditions that need soothing.
Slippery elm bark mixed with water creates mucilage,.which has been used over time to create bandages and poultices for wounds.
The bark ground to powder and mixed with milk was given to infants that have been recently weaned for it's nutritional value and to prevent bowel issues. It has also been given to patients that could keep nothing else down. It has even been said that taking a half cup of slippery elm prior to a night of drinking can prevent hangovers.
Thayers Slippery Elm Lozenges are still available in health food stores today. These lozenges have been on the market since 1902 and are just as effective today as they were when they were first produced Thayers Slippery Elm Lozenges come in original, cherry, tangerine/rosehip and maple. Taking the lozenge form is much more palatable than taking this herb mixed with water.
Slippery Elm lozenges are used by singers and speakers and others that need to use their voices extensively. They protect the mucous membrane of the throat from harm.
Lemon
Lemon is such a large part of daily life that the active uses for lemon are overlooked. Lemon is
- Anti-bacterial
- Anti-infective
- Antihistamine
- Anti-inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of lemon are excellent for the treatment of sore throat. Lemon juice and hot water can take away the heat in the throat. Add the anti-bacterial activities of honey and it's no wonder that this combination has been passed down by herbalists old wives everywhere.
Sage
Sage has numerous activities including
- Astringent
- Antiseptic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Bacteriacidal
- Antibiotic
Combine 1/2 to 1 teaspoon sage with hot water and steep for 15 minutes. Drink 1/2 to 1 cup 3 times daily or use as a gargle.
Sore throat remedies do not have to be confusing or expensive. There are simple and effective ways of treating sore throats. Sore throats are generally caused by underlying conditions. If sore throat persists make sure to see the doctor.
References:
- Bartram Thomas FNIMH, Bartram's Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, Marlowe & Company New York
- Castleman Michael. The Healing Herbs,Rodale Press Pennsylvania
Joy Borthwick - Joy has been a Chartered Herbalist since 2001 and obtained her Herbal Consulting degree in 2005 from Dominion Herbal College. She has been ...
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