Natural Remedies For Sore Throat Part 1

If you’ve got a sore throat, it’s probably not strep throat, even though that’s the usual suspect. While infection by harmful Group A Streptococcus bacteria is more common during the winter, most sore throats are actually caused by viruses, according to recent guidelines published by the Infectious Disease Society of America. Of the 10 million Americans who are prescribed antibiotics for a sore throat each year, only about 2 million actually have a bacterial infection, such as streptococcal pharyngitis or strep throat, that is susceptible to the medication. For the rest, the antibiotics are ineffective and may actually hinder the body’s healing efforts.

Infectious signs

Signs of bacterial throat infection include sudden onset of throat pain and fever without other upper respiratory symptoms such as runny nose and cough or mouth sores. Have your doctor confirm the diagnosis with tests. If left untreated, it is possible for bacterial infections to cause serious complications, especially in children or those with weak immune systems.

However, some health experts believe that antibiotics are not always necessary to treat strep throat: With enough rest and other healthy steps, the body can resolve the infection within a week or so. Regardless of whether you decide to take antibiotics for a bacterial infection, there are a number of helpful natural remedies that can be taken alone or combined with antibiotic drugs. These healthy solutions help boost immunity, relieve symptoms and speed recovery. Furthermore, they help treat the more common viral infections that actually cause the majority of upper respiratory symptoms.

Powerful herbs and botanicals

Garlic: This potent antimicrobial can actively fight bacterial infections, boost immunity against viral infections and relieve symptoms. Simmer four or five cloves of raw garlic in 8 to 12 ounces of water for five minutes to make a soothing, potent tea. For flavor, you can also add raw honey, which has strong antibacterial and immune-boosting properties.

Echinacea: Echinacea root has antibacterial action against Streptococcus and other bacteria. It also boosts immunity, fights viruses and offers anti-inflammatory benefits in acute conditions. It’s most commonly available commercially as a tea, liquid extract and herbal supplement.