Most if not all of us have experienced a sore throat at least once, and probably quite a number of times over a lifetime. They are not fun. The pain and scratchiness which occurs is irritating, yet usually not severe. Following is a look at the bodily conditions which can cause a sore throat, and some of the natural supplements best suited for alleviating one.
The Causes of a Sore Throat
A sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, is typically the result of a viral infection. The common cold and the seasonal flu are the most common sources. Less often, a sore throat is the result of a bacterial infection known as strep throat, or some other entirely different health condition.
The symptoms of a sore throat are very characteristic. There can be some variation in their manifestation based on the cause, but symptoms usually include persistent pain & scratchiness in the throat, increased irritation when swallowing, and difficulty swallowing period. Further symptoms can include swollen tonsils and glands in the neck or jaw, as well as a hoarse and muffled voice.
The symptoms of sore throat are often bad enough that you’ll want to treat them directly. If your sore throat is the result of an infection, then other symptoms could occur, such as fever and cough.
The Best Supplements to Alleviate a Sore Throat
The condition of the throat during an infection can be influenced by the intake of certain nutrients and other helpful, natural substances. The remedies discussed here are primarily recommended to alleviate a sore throat, but some of them can also be useful for fighting the viral infection itself that causes sore throat.
Vitamin C + bioflavonoids: Vitamin C is well-known as a remedy for cold and flu. When combined with natural plant-derived compounds known as bioflavonoids, these substances comprise one of the best combinations to help your immune system defend against viral infections. As a result, vitamin C buffered with bioflavonoids (such as those from citrus fruits) is one of the best natural supplements to help get ahead of sore throat symptoms when an infection occurs.
Zinc is one of the best supplements for preventing and alleviating the common cold and the sore throat which comes with it. It is useful to supplement with zinc if you begin to feel throat soreness and the other symptoms of a cold. This can help reduce the course of the infection. Zinc lozenges are also an excellent option for direct sore throat relief. However, choosing to supplement with zinc when the cold season begins is ideal for preventing sore throat and other symptoms if an infection occurs.
Licorice root is a plant with medicinal properties and is available in oral supplement form. It contains natural properties which work similarly to aspirin, which can reduce the pain of a sore throat. This is in addition to its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice root is a great option for treating a sore throat, and helping to treat a seasonal infection in general.
Cinnamon is a spice which, although used in food, has a long history of use for sore throats as well as infections such as the common cold. It is useful against a sore throat because it has such a high antioxidant content.
Garlic is a natural herb containing allicin, an active ingredient which boosts the body’s ability to fend off viral and bacterial infections and the throat soreness which these infections cause. Taking a garlic supplement daily is perhaps the best way to realize the preventative benefits of garlic.
Since we are headed into cold & flu season, now is the time to stock up on remedies to prevent and alleviate a sore throat. These natural supplements could make a big difference. It’s recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking a supplement for the first time.