Strep throat is a condition that occurs as a result of a germ named Group A Streptococcus bacteria and this bacteria triggers symptoms of sore throat. Although this condition may affect individuals of any age group, it mostly affects children in the age range of 5 and 15 years. It is important to note that this condition is contagious and mostly spreads via contact with infected saliva.
However, this condition can be treated effectively using medications, which often cause side effects. In addition to medications, there are also several natural cures for strep throat, whose effectiveness is at par with antibiotic medications, but do not cause any major side effects. Given below is a list of natural cures for strep throat.
Natural Cures for Strep Throat
Herbs
Herbal remedies are considered effective in treating the symptoms of strep throat. Echinacea is an herb that is considered beneficial for treating strep throat. This herb is known to possess active ingredients that help in decreasing inflammation, boosting immunity as well as getting rid of pain. For treating strep throat symptoms, health experts highly recommend consuming echinacea tea, which can be prepared by adding around 2-3 grams of echinacea root to a glass of water and boiling it for around 10-15 minutes.
You could also consume echinacea tablets for treating strep throat. The recommended dosage of this herb is around 300 mg twice daily. Eucalyptus is another herb that helps in treating strep throat. This is due to the presence of tannins, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, that soothe the throat. This herb also possesses antioxidants as well as flavonoids.
You can consume this herb in the form of tea by steeping around half teaspoon eucalyptus root in one cup of water for around 10 minutes. Peppermint is another effective herbal remedy for treating strep throat. The leaves of this herb are used in medicinal preparations, due to the fact that it possesses volatile oils that help in soothing throat.
You can also use this herb in the treatment of headaches, caused by this condition. Peppermint should be consumed as tea for treating strep throat. To prepare this tea, add around one teaspoon of peppermint to a single cup of water and boil it for around 15 minutes. You can drink this tea thrice daily for treating strep throat.
Diet
A good diet is extremely important when it comes to relieving strep throat symptoms. It is important that you consume foods containing high amounts of protein, which digest quickly and do not contain any spices. Common foods that are good for treating strep throat include eggs, low fat yogurt, cheese, chicken breasts, tuna and tofu. You can also consume soymilk if you are lactose intolerant.
Carbohydrates are also important for strep throat patients as they provide the body with energy. Foods such as potatoes, rice, pasta, cereal, and bread are excellent sources of carbohydrates that are easily digested by the body. Individuals suffering from strep throat should avoid consuming beverages that contain high amounts of acid.
Lemonade, grapefruit juice, tomato juice and orange juice are common examples of acidic beverages that worsen strep throat symptoms. It is also advisable that you abstain from consuming spicy foods as they aggravate strep throat symptoms. You should consume soft and mild foods as they help in relieving the symptoms of strep throat.
Honey
Honey is considered an effective home remedy for treating strep throat symptoms. Honey has been used extensively for cough and strep throat, as it helps in soothing the throat and reducing inflammation. In addition to reducing inflammation and irritation, this home remedy also exhibits antibacterial properties that help in killing bacteria that trigger strep throat. For treating strep throat symptoms, add the juice of half lemon to one teaspoon of honey and consume it twice daily.
Salt Water Gargle
Salt water gargles are an effective home remedy for treating strep throat. Individuals suffering from strep throat experience inflammation inside their throat. This effect is known to occur as a result of bacterial infections. Salt water is considered effective in drawing out the water accumulated due to inflammation, thereby soothing your throat. For treating strep throat symptoms, add around half teaspoon salt to a glass of warm water and gargle for a few minutes.
You can make use of this home remedy several times a day, for treating strep throat. However, it is important to note that you could also use table salt in the treatment of strep throat. This is due to the fact that both of these varieties of salt contain the same amount of sodium, which helps in reducing swelling inside the throat.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is considered an effective home remedy for treating cases of strep throat. This home remedy is helpful in destroying bacteria causing strep throat due to its acidic nature. You can gargle using apple cider vinegar to treat strep throat symptoms. To prepare the gargle, add around 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water.
You can use this home remedy three-four times a day for treating the symptoms of strep throat. However, it is important to note that you should rinse your mouth with water after using this home remedy, as the high acidity levels of apple cider vinegar may damage your teeth. You should use this remedy for around two-three days to see significant improvement in the symptoms of this condition. Consult your doctor if the symptoms of this condition persist for more than ten days.
Yogurt
Yogurt is considered very beneficial for individuals suffering from conditions such as strep throat. This is due to the fact that it contains probiotics, which are healthy bacteria required for boosting immunity as well as killing bacteria. Therefore, consuming yogurt may prove effective in destroying the bacteria that cause conditions such as strep throat.
However, it is important that you avoid adding sugar to your yogurt, as refined sugar encourages the growth and spread of bad bacteria in the human body. You can consume around 4 ounces of yogurt, twice daily for treating the symptoms of strep throat.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
