Herbal Remedies for the Sore Throat

Sore throat is often the first sign of an upper respiratory infection (URI) and with the scratchy, irritating sensation, soon comes difficulty in swallowing and excessive mucous and often secondary infections of the sinuses and bronchii. Herbal remedies for sore throat are fast acting and effective in treating this type of infection, regardless of whether the infection is of viral or bacterial origin. Herbal supplements and herbs for sore throat are prescribed with the view to soothing the affected area as well as working to fight infection and boost the immune system.

Natural Remedy for Sore Throat

Throat and Tonsil Dr.™ By Native Remedies

Natural remedy containing homeopathic ingredients selected to relieve sore throats, swollen glands and inflamed tonsils due to tonsillitis, pharyngitis, cold or flu.

Commonly Prescribed Herbs for Sore Throat

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
This herb for sore throat is used either as a fluid extract or as the essential oil. The dried leaf is used to sooth an irritable dry cough and has been used in the treatment of bronchitis, dry cough and sore throats. Thyme leaf contains an essential oil, which is the responsible for the antispasmodic action of thyme leaf. The main constituent of thyme oil is thymol which is a powerful antiseptic, which helps to treat infection associated with a sore throat.

Cayenne (Capsicum annum)
Cayenne, one of the oldest domesticated plants on earth, and was eaten by the native tribes of South and Central America as far back as 7000 BC; and cayenne was introduced into Europe and other parts of the world by Christopher Columbus upon his return from the Americas. Columbus named cayenne a 'pepper' because of its pungent aroma; however, it is not related to the piper family. Capsicum annum has also been used medicinally for acute colds, catarrh and sore throat and as a circulatory stimulant. In Mexico, cayenne is a traditional herbal remedy for colds, earache and tonsillitis. Cayenne works best in low doses, for example in a 100ml mixture for a sore throat, it is best to only use 6-12 drops of cayenne fluid extract.

Great Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus)
The leaf of this herb has calming and soothing properties. It helps dispel mucous in the airways and is used particularly for chest conditions where irritation, and inflammation is present such as tracheitis, where there is a dry, hard cough. Mullein is great where there is not only sore throat but chest symptoms as well; and it is important to remember that many sore throats will often be the precursor to bronchitis and chest infection.

Myrrh (Commiphora molmol)
This herb is a very effective antiseptic that also has the added benefit of being an anti-inflammatory. Topically, myrrh is used as a gargle treat pain and inflammation of the mouth and throat mucosa due to infection; and is commonly use to treat gingivitis, mouth ulcers and minor wounds and abrasions. Thyme is also perfect for treating URIs as it has a mild analgesic and anaesthetic action that helps to ease the pain associated with inflamed sore throats.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
The flowers of this herb are well known to promote healing and to work as an anti-inflammatory, astringent and antiseptic. In addition, calendula is useful as a topical antiviral and is used to treat enlarged lymph nodes and sore throats. When combining herbs to fight infection, calendula is always one of the first herbs to consider.

Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)
Native Americans used echinacea root to relieve toothache, sore throat, neck pain, enlarged lymph glands and as an anaesthetic for the throat. When taken internally, Echinacea builds resistance to infections acting mainly on the immune system to boost resistance to infection. The preventative dose range for Echinacea is 1000mg three times daily for adults and children over twelve.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Fenugreek is useful in sore throats where there are enlarged lymph nodes. This herb will help the lymph nodes to drain and is also a key herb in clearing congestion in the head associated with sinus infection. As a tea, it is also recommended as a gargle to sooth an inflamed sore throat.

Some other natural herbs that have been used for sore throat.

Natural Supplements for Sore Throat

Zinc Lozenges (15 mg)
by Vitabase

Roxalia Homeopathic Sore Throat
by Boiron Homeopathy

The Use of Herbal Remedies for Sore Throat

A good herbal remedy for a sore throat will act to reduce catarrh and help to fight infection while soothing inflamed mucosa. Herbal remedies for sore throats will also work to reduce the symptoms of infection and help to boost your immunity and decrease the chances of reinfection. Herbal supplements and herbs that sooth coughs (antitussives) can also be added to form a preparation that is specific to your condition and a vitamin supplement that contains zinc and vitamin C with bioflavenoids will help to fight infection and reduce inflammation.

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