A sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, can accompany a viral infection like a cold, flu or mononucleosis; a bacterial infection like strep or tonsillitis; or it can be caused by irritants like pollution and allergies. Most sore throats clear up when the infection subsides, but they can be painful and make swallowing difficult. Herbs with demulcent, astringent or anti-inflammatory actions may relieve the pain and help heal inflamed tissue. It is important to check with a health care professional before starting herbal treatment, or if the sore throat is accompanied by fever, swollen glands or white patches in the throat.
Balloonflower
Balloonflower, or Platycodon grandiflorus, is a perennial with large blue flowers native to East Asia. It is called jie geng in traditional Chinese medicine and doraji in Korean medicine, and is used as both a food and medicine. The herb has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, and herbalists use it to treat asthma, coughs and colds. Balloonflower also eliminates phlegm that is often part of the primary infection. In her 2009 book, "The Holistic Herbal Directory," herbalist Penelope Ody cites balloonflower as a useful remedy for a sore throat because it can clear away pus, which may indicate that a sore throat is caused by streptococcus bacteria. More studies are needed to validate the traditional use of this plant in treating sore throat pain and inflammation.
Myrrh
Myrrh, or Commiphora molmol, is a small thorny tree native to Africa, Oman and Yemen. The gum resin that flows through cracks in the bark is used medicinally throughout Africa and Asia. As a topical or gargle, myrrh treats inflammatory infections in the mouth and throat, such as gingivitis, tonsillitis, canker sores and sore throats. Myrrh contains terpenoids with antiseptic, anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties. Myrrh has highly astringent and antibacterial actions, which make it effective in treating sore throats, according to herbalist Penelope Ody. In his 2003 book, "Medical Herbalism: the Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," herbalist David Hoffmann cites myrrh's antimicrobial action and its specific use in treating pharyngitis. Scientific studies are needed to support the traditional use of myrrh in treating throat infections.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow, or Althea officinalis, is a tall perennial used throughout the world as food and medicine. Folk healers use the roots to treat cough, ulcers and infections of the mouth and throat. The roots and leaves contain mucilage, a polysaccharide substance that becomes thick and slimy when mixed with water. In their 2009 book, "Medicinal Plants of the World," Ben-Erik van Wyk and Michael Wink state that the mucilage in marshmallow soothes irritation by forming a protective film over inflamed tissue. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends an infusion of marshmallow root for sore throats. In their 2000 book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Phyllis Balch and Dr. James Balch recommend marshmallow root tea to soothe a scratchy throat. Studies are needed to validate the traditional use of marshmallow root for throat infections.
