A painful, dry, scratchy or irritated throat is usually a symptom of a common cold. A viral sore throat typically heals after a few days, and certain herbal remedies may help provide relief while assisting your body in fighting the virus. But before using herbs for a sore throat, consult a botanically trained health care professional.
About Viral Sore Throat
A sore throat is also known as pharyngitis, or inflammation of the throat. It's often caused by a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu, but may also have other causes, such as a bacterial infection, allergies, pollution, smoke exposure or mononucleosis. Symptoms that often accompany viral pharyngitis include headache, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, cough, muscle aches and fever. Many people experience a viral sore throat a few times a year.
Herbal Remedies for a Viral Sore Throat
Several herbal remedies can relieve the discomfort of a sore throat while supporting the body's immune response to the infection. According to Phyllis Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," blackberry, calendula and cayenne may soothe or heal a sore throat. Echinacea, goldenseal and garlic may improve the immune system's ability to fight a viral infection and heal the respiratory tissues. Other herbs that soothe the throat include marshmallow, fenugreek, lungwort, raspberry leaf and licorice. Many of these herbs can be prepared as a tea, or taken in liquid extract or capsule form.
Featured Herb: Licorice
Licorice, also known by its Latin name Glycyrrhiza glabra, is an herbal remedy with a wide variety of medicinal uses. It's a member of the legume family, and the plant is completely distinct from the twisted red candy of the same name. Licorice root, which has a sweet taste, is used to make medicine. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," licorice soothes inflamed membranes of the lungs and throat. It's helpful for a cough and other respiratory irritations. It also has antiviral and immune-supporting effects. Licorice can be taken as a tea, solid extract, liquid extract or capsule. It should be avoided by individuals with high blood pressure or ailments of the kidneys, liver or heart.
Disclaimer
Most of the time, a sore throat is the result of a short-term viral infection; however, it can sometimes suggest other health ailments that may require medical intervention. Consult your doctor for a diagnosis. Also note that herbal remedies can have strong effects on the body and may interact with certain medications, so discuss using herbal remedies for a viral sore throat with your doctor.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Sore Throat
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
