Natural and home remedies remain effective treatments for children suffering from infections of the throat. Children are exposed to numerous bugs at school that can cause throat infections, leaving it a frequent occurrence in many households. Several natural treatments and home remedies can be used at the initial stages of sore throat to prevent further progression and unwanted ear infections, which often accompany sore throats in children. As with starting any new treatments, consult your doctor first before trying any natural remedies.
Elderberry Syrup
Sambucus nigra berry, commonly known as elderberry, has recently gained attention in health circles for its immune-enhancing effects. A study published in the February 2011 issue of “BioMed Central Complimentary and Alternative Medicine” studied the effects elderberry had on viral and bacterial strains, in which researchers concluded that elderberry is active against human bacteria and flu virus, leaving it a promising treatment for sore throat and upper respiratory infections. Additionally, elderberry has the added benefit of containing high levels of antioxidants, which can help tissues heal after infection. Elderberry syrup also tastes good, leaving it a good option for children.
Echinacea Spray
As Echinacea remains the most well-known herbal supplement in the United States, conflicting research on the herb leaves many individuals confused as to whether or not they should give their children echinacea. Despite differing reports of echinacea shortening the duration of common cold or the flu, the fact that echinacea can reduce pain and numb a sore throat similar to that of chlorhexidine/lidocaine spray leaves echinacea an alternative natural remedy for throat infections. In a study published in a September 2009 issue of the “European Journal of Medical Research,” researchers evaluated 154 patients with acute sore throats and found that the group receiving the spray containing a combination of echinacea and sage was found to be equally as effective as the group receiving chlorhexidine/lidocaine spray.
Throat Compress
One home remedy used to ward off infection and enhance immunity comes in the form of a warming throat compress. This simple and effective treatment has been used by natural healers as far back as the 16th century for stimulating vitality and fighting infection. The warming throat compress is thought to work by improving the circulation of blood and immune cells to the affected area, relieving congestion and reducing swelling within the throat. This treatment can be achieved by soaking a washcloth or small hand towel in cold water, wringing out well, and placing on a child’s neck up to the jaw line. Next, a dry towel or a wool scarf is wrapped around the cold towel. Both towels are removed when dry. Although this treatment is simplistic in nature, it can be effective in improving immune function and duration of illness.
Visit the Doctor
Several conditions, such as strep throat, require medical attention and careful monitoring of treatment. Any child who has a sore throat that is not improving, or is experiencing fever, swollen tonsils and glands in the neck, inability to swallow, drooling, and pus present on the tonsils should visit the doctor for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. A sore throat can have many causes, some of which can have serious complications if not diagnosed and treated appropriately.
References
- “BioMed Central Complementary and Alternative Medicine”; Inhibitory Activity of a Standardized Elderberry Liquid Extract Against Clinically-relevant Human Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens and Influenza A and B Viruses; Krawitz C. et al.; February 2011
- “European Journal of Medical Research”; Echinacea/sage or Cholorhexidine/lidocaine for Treating Acute Sore Throats: A Randomized Double-blind Trial; Schapowal, A. et al.; September 2009
- “Lectures in Naturopathic Hydrotherapy”; Wade Boyle, ND and Andre Saine, ND; 1988
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