Recognized as the most common bacterial infection in throat caused by Group A Streptococcus, strep throat is marked by inflamed lymph nodes, tonsils, and throat. The condition is quite common during the flu season and is spread by nasal secretions.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, strep throat is seen more in children belonging to the age group of 5 to 15 than in adults. The condition is highly contagious because the causal bacteria can be easily transmitted by coughing, sneezing, or direct touch.
Moreover, if left untreated, strep throat can trigger critical complications. Therefore, it becomes essential to treat the condition. Although the doctors recommend an antibiotic course, patients can also try some effective and affordable herbal remedies for relieving the symptoms quickly and speeding up the recovery.
Herbal Remedies for Strep Throat Treatment
Echinacea
This herb has a long history of usage in Native America for treating a variety of infections. This is because echinacea is rich in various potent compounds, such as antioxidants and polysaccharides. These medical ingredients are found in both the upper part as well as in the root of the plant.
In case of strep throat, the herb is believed to possess the power of inactivating the causal bacteria as well as reversing the inflammation. In most cases, echinacea tincture is used as a remedy. In order to use this remedy, you need to pour around 30 drops of the tincture in your mouth and allow it to get mixed with the saliva.
Now, utilize the mix as a gargle in your throat’s back. It is recommended to do this once every hour until the symptoms start to subside. Apart from combating the infection, the herb may also trigger a temporary numbing effect for relieving pain.
Chamomile Tea
This one is considered as one of the most effective remedies for treating strep throat. According to the experts, chamomile is rich in analgesic properties that can trigger quick relief from pain in throat and headaches. If taken after every few hours, the tea may also alleviate fever and avert dehydration.
Eucalyptus
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the eucalyptus leaves when used in teas can aid in treating a throat infection.
Even the nutrition expert Phyllis Balch endorses the use of eucalyptus for obtaining relief from strep throat. He says that this herb has the power to trigger mild antiseptic action for treating coughs, infections, and respiratory disorders. It has also been found that the herb may also be effective in alleviating swelling.
Garlic
Garlic has also shown its effectiveness in soothing the condition. According to UMMC, consuming garlic aids in boosting immunity as well as in healing sore throats because the herb is rich in antioxidants.
It is recommended to have fresh garlic instead of cooked one because the former has more active antioxidants than the latter.
Turmeric
This herb is known for its anti-inflammatory properties due to which it can alleviate the pain and inflammation due to strep throat. You can either add a bit of it to warm water for gargling or can consume it through foods you eat.
Note
Herbal remedies for strep throat can prove to be great healers. However, you should always take these herbs only after asking your doctor about the possible side effects, if any.