If you’re experiencing a sore throat, it’s likely caused by a virus rather than the common misconception of strep throat. In fact, only about 2 million out of 10 million Americans who are prescribed antibiotics for a sore throat have a bacterial infection such as strep throat. Antibiotics can be ineffective and even harmful when misused so it’s vital for your doctor to confirm the diagnosis with tests. However, natural remedies, alone or combined with antibiotics, can help boost the immune system, relieve symptoms, and speed recovery process while avoiding the risk of unnecessary antibiotic use.
The Power of Herbs and Botanicals
Many herbs and botanical extracts can offer relief and provide protection against infections. Some to consider include:
- Garlic: A strong antimicrobial agent that can help fend off bacterial infections, as well as boost immunity and relieve symptoms. Make a healing tea by simmering four or five cloves of raw garlic in 8 to 12 ounces of water for five minutes. Add raw honey for extra flavor and antibacterial properties.
- Echinacea: Commonly available as a tea, liquid extract, or herbal supplement, echinacea root has antibacterial action against Streptococcus and other bacteria. It also boosts immunity, fights viruses, and decreases inflammation.
- Honokiol Extract: Derived from magnolia bark, honokiol extract has strong antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, and provides antioxidant support, among other benefits. For acute infections, take 500 mg of pure honokiol one to two times daily.
- Tibetan Herbal Formula: This ancient combination of 19 herbs and botanical extracts has ample evidence showing its antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties, as well as reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
- Yin Qiao San Chinese Formula: Found in health food stores and Chinese herbal retailers, this traditional blend of Chinese herbs, including honeysuckle flower, forsythia fruit, reed rhizome, and burdock seed, boost immunity against viruses, fight bacterial infections, soothe symptoms, and facilitate healing.
- Medicinal Mushrooms: Species such as reishi, cordyceps, maitake, coriolus, agaricus, umbellatus, and others support immunity against foreign invaders, remove toxins, support healthy responses to inflammation, and increase antioxidant activity, as well as speed recovery by strengthening the body.
- Probiotics: The probiotic strain Streptococcus salivarius, or BLIS K12, fights harmful strep bacteria and restores balance, as well as exhibits antiviral activity by increasing interferon production. It’s available as a dietary supplement.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
In addition to herbal remedies, traditional nutrients like vitamin C and zinc play an important part in healing:
- Vitamin C: Known for its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C reduces symptoms and soothes mucus membranes. Aim for 2 to 5 grams per day during acute illness.
- Zinc Lozenges: Lozenges containing 10 to 15 grams of zinc per lozenge are helpful in relieving sore throats and boosting immunity. Look for natural sweeteners and other soothing herb extracts like marshmallow root or cherry bark, and take them every three to four hours as needed.
Aside from natural remedies, plenty of rest, fluids, and soothing, nutritious foods like hot soups can deal with irritated tissues and reduce symptoms. Remember to consult with your doctor before beginning any new treatment, and never hesitate to seek their advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
