MayoClinic.com explains that a sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, is a symptom of another problem. A sore throat is usually caused by a virus or bacteria, but can also be caused by allergies, especially if your allergies are causing you to cough. MayoClinic.com explains that there is no cure for allergies, so treatment focuses on relieving your symptoms. Luckily, there are many home remedies to try. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Lifestyle
MayoClinic.com advises that you use a cool-air humidifier, as dry air can irritate a sore throat. You might even sit in a steamy bathroom for several minutes. It advises that you gargle with salt water, 1 tsp. table salt in 8 oz. warm water, to soothe your throat. Do not drink the solution. They suggest that you keep your home free of irritants such as cigarette smoke and harsh cleaning products. These treat the symptoms, but you can also eliminate some of the causes: allergens. "Healing Without Medication" suggests that you vacuum regularly, and that your vacuum have a HEPA filter. Also run an air purifier to further remove remaining dander, dust, pollen and mold spores. Wear a dust mask when you work outside, and avoid working outside between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., when the air is most saturated with allergens.
Diet
In "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments," naturopathy expert Geovanni Espinosa, N.D. recommends eating a diet high in fruit and green leafy vegetables rich in vitamins that prevent histamine response, like vitamin C. Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are very important for overall health, and are anti-inflammatory. Garlic, onion and ginger are superfoods that improve the immune system; eat them when you have a sore throat in a warm chicken soup.
Nutritional Supplements
Vitamin C prevents the release of histamine by mast cells, and also causes histamine to degrade quickly. Espinosa recommends taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C for this reason. Quercetin stabilizes cell membranes so that they do not respond to allergens. Take 250 mg three times daily. "Healing Without Medication" recommends taking 500 mg of bromelain at the same time as the quercetin. Bromelain prevents swelling in several ways, and helps reduce the inflammation in your throat.
Herbs
Stinging nettle is a traditional treatment for allergies. It provides histamine, which then causes the body to fight inflammation. In "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments," herbalism expert, David Kiefer, M.D., recommends taking 10 g of freeze dried nettle per day. To directly soothe your sore throat, he recommends making a tea of several herbs that work synergistically. Make a mixture of equal parts peppermint, calendula, barberry, burdock and liquorice. Steep 2 tsp. of the mixture in a cup of water to make a tea. Gargle before swallowing.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Sore Throat
- MayoClinic.com: Allergies
- "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments"; Victor Sierpina, M.D.; 2007
- "Healing Without Medication"; Robert S. Rister; 2003
