Strep throat is a very common throat infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. It is responsible for 20–30% of sore throats in children and 5–15% of sore throats in adults. Respiratory tract infection is highly contagious and spreads via inhalation of respiratory droplets produced during coughing or sneezing by the infected person. Strep throat results in patients developing fever, throat pain, painful swallowing, body pains, and enlarged lymph nodes sometimes.Although completion of the antibiotic course is the definitive treatment modality, certain home remedies have also been found to be very effective against strep throat. These home remedies are side-effect-free, easily available, and full of health benefits.
Following are our top 10 remedies that you can easily try at home for strep throat:
Gargles with Salt Water
It is a very simple yet very effective home remedy for strep throat, which has been in use for ages. Regular usage reduces swelling and pain and kills bacteria associated with strep throat. Now it has also been scientifically proven that gargling loosens thick mucus and removes irritants like allergens, bacteria, and fungi from the throat. It is recommended to gargle with saline water about 2-3 times daily to get faster relief from strep throat.
Raw Honey
It is a natural remedy rich with antioxidants and antibacterial agents. Research has proven its healing properties, owing to its bactericidal activity and thick consistency that creates a protective barrier to prevent infections. It is particularly effective against strep throat, and regular usage can help cure it naturally. It can be used directly or in diluted form, mixed with hot water or tea.
Apple Cider Vinegar
It is a type of vinegar made from fermented apples. It is rich in acetic acid, which has strong anti-microbial properties, due to which it is involved in the killing of bacteria causing strep throat. It also helps balance pH levels in the throat and soothes inflammation. One study found that apple cider vinegar was 95% effective at eradicating biofilm associated with strep throat in those with recurrent tonsillitis. Usually, 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with a small amount of water taken two to three times daily is enough.
Elderberry:
It is a berry packed with immune-system-boosting antioxidants and vitamins. It is known to decrease the symptom severity and duration of disease in people suffering from strep throat. Elderberry supplements are available in capsule, syrup, liquid, and cough-drop form.
Echinacea :
It is a popular herb used commonly for sore throats and the common flu. It has antiviral and antibacterial properties, including activity against the bacteria that cause strep throat. Research concluded that a throat spray made with echinacea and sage relieved sore throats, as well as a spray made with an antibacterial (chlorhexidine) agent. It is available both in syrup and spray form.
Garlic
It is a common agent used traditionally to treat infections, owing to its strong antimicrobial properties against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its effects are mainly mediated by a chemical known as allicin. The best way to use garlic for sore throats is simply to chew on a raw clove or take a slice and suck on it for 15 minutes, as this releases a lot of allicin.
Staying hydrated
Hydration is the foremost step in treating all sorts of body infections, as this helps to clear out toxins and bacteria from the body.. In the case of strep throat, it helps additionally by keeping the throat moist, which in turn soothes up the irritation. Drinking at least 8 cups of water daily is highly recommended
Inhaling Humidified Air
Dry air can be a source of throat irritation, while moist air can help people with sore throats by keeping them moist and decreasing inflammation. Using a humidifier at home can keep the air moist, which is quite helpful in recovering from strep throat. Care should be taken to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent any superadded infections.
bone broth:
It is loaded with immune-boosting vitamins and minerals. Drinking warm bone broth relieves local throat congestion and is also easy to digest. Additionally, it also contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as carnosine, which helps to soothe throat soreness. So in this way, it is very helpful in treating strep throat.
Essential Oils:
Essential oils are concentrated solutions derived from plants. Oils like peppermint and lemon oil have great anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Additionally, if used topically, they provide a calming and cooling effect on the aching throat. Usually, they are very strong oils and should only be used in diluted form.
Apart from these, taking a good, healthy diet and getting some rest are two things that cannot be underestimated. We advise our patients to take a soft diet that is easy to swallow and to take some time off from work in order to give their bodies sufficient rest to heal completely. Using daily supplements with Vitamin C and E can also help the body recover quickly from strep throat, as they help boost the immune system.
Other natural remedies that are commonly used to treat strep throat include herbal teas, licorice, cinnamon, and marshmallow root.
Although home remedies are quite effective against strep throat, they are not an alternative to medical treatment. Help should always be sought from health care professionals in cases of symptoms suggestive of strep throat. On our platform of telehealth doctors, we have expert physicians who are always eager to help. They are registered Australian physicians who have years of experience in managing cases like strep throat. So feel free to book an appointment today!
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