Pharyngitis is inflammation of pharynx that joins the larynx (oral cavity) with the nasal cavity. Although virus and bacteria are the most common causes of pharyngitis, it is sometimes caused by allergies, dryness and even muscle strain. Common symptoms of pharyngitis or sore throat include dry throat, scratchy throat, difficulty in eating and swallowing, redness and inflammation.Although over-the-counter drugs such as anti-inflammatories and antibiotics are common treatment options for pharyngitis, natural remedies such as herbs are also sought out for. Here are some of the best herbal remedies for pharyngitis.
Herbal Remedies For Pharyngitis
Horehound
This particular herb reduces inflammation and swelling of the throat. It acts as an expectorant and thins mucus that helps in faster clearing of throat. Sip on horehound tea till the symptoms of pharyngitis are gone. To prepare the tea, chop the herb and add 2 teaspoonfuls of it into boiling water, strain the mixture and drink it regularly. Herbalists also recommend horehound to alleviate symptoms of sinusitis, bronchitis and many other respiratory problems. Besides, it greatly boosts immune response.
Echinacea
This particular herb has amazing antiviral and antibacterial properties that prevent pharyngitis. Echinacea tea has gained prominence as a powerful herbal remedy for various upper respiratory disorders. It contains alkamides that boost the immune system and offer better resistance to colds, flu and fever. It also contains phenols that promote overall health of a person primarily because of its antioxidant properties. It also activates renewal of T-cells.
Sage
This particular herb has excellent antibacterial, antiseptic and astringent properties that make it a great remedy for pharyngitis. It also relieves throat and mouth inflammation and alleviates cough. You can take few fresh or dried leaves of sage and brew it into tea that is extremely soothing for your throat. You can also gargle with sage. Take a teaspoonful of dried sage and put it in some boiling water. Strain the mixture and gargle with it at least four times every day.
Slippery Elm
Containing mucilage, this herb soothes the throat and relieves itchiness and dryness. While the mucilage moistens and coats the throat, the tannins in it soothe inflammation of throat. Its strong astringent properties also heal bronchial tissues and reduce swelling. Besides, slippery elm bark is abundant in various essential nutrients like zinc, manganese, iodine, calcium, bromine, starch, amino acids, etc. that are crucial for overall nourishment of the body. You can powder the slippery elm bark and add some of it to boiling water. Strain the mixture and drink the tea for relief from pharyngitis.
Garlic
The active agent in garlic is allicin that kills the bacteria causing pharyngitis. It fights off bacterial and viral infections that result in pharyngitis. It also has viable antiseptic properties. Take a garlic clove, put it between your teeth and crush on it so as to release allicin compound.
Garlic has amazing antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant and antibiotic properties that play a great role in busting off common colds and flu along with sore throat. Its expectorant and decongestant properties relieves cough and expels mucus from the bronchial tubes much faster. In addition, garlic contains vitamin C, selenium and sulphur, and a bunch of other enzymes that help in keeping colds and flu at bay.
