One of the common ailments that children experience (adults as well, from time to time) is strep throat. Here we take a look at strep throat and offer some of the best natural remedies which can help the body defend against and relieve symptoms of strep throat.
Experiencing Strep Throat
Strep throat is a relatively common bacterial infection most common in children and youth ages 5-15. Those who are above and below this age range can contract strep as well, but it is unlikely. Strep throat is infectious and can spread among children, especially in crowded environments.
Strep throat is caused by one of a few different bacteria in the Streptococcus family, with Streptococcus pyogenes being the most common. An individual can catch strep when they touch an infected surface and then touch their face, when sharing a cup or eating utensil with an infected person, or by breathing in airborne droplets of the bacteria.
The foremost symptom of strep throat is a sore throat. About 30% of incidences of a sore throat in children are caused by strep throat. That range is 5-15% for adults. Other symptoms of strep include pain when swallowing, fever, headache, swollen tonsils, skin rash, and red or white discoloration in the throat and tonsils.
If you or your child are suspected of having strep throat, a doctor can make a diagnosis using a rapid test or a throat culture. In the majority of cases, a doctor will prescribe an antibiotic treatment for strep throat. Alternative remedies can also be useful.
Supplements for Strep Throat
Vitamins, herbs, and nutrients can support your immune system if you contract strep throat, and help alleviate symptoms as well. These supplements are worth keeping on hand in case you or your child come down with a strep throat infection. As they say in the Boy Scouts, be prepared.
Vitamin D is a crucial, fat-soluble vitamin which can defend the body against a strep throat infection. Scientific evidence suggests that taking vitamin D after contracting strep can help the body overcome the infection. This is because of vitamin D’s direct support of the immune system. Furthermore, deficiency in vitamin D makes an individual susceptible to contracting strep throat in the first place.
Echinacea is an herbal remedy which contains phytochemicals that support the immune system. They do this by helping to keep bacteria from entering healthy cells, including streptococcus bacteria. Echinacea also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling in the throat and tonsils. Furthermore, it can help relieve sore throat, as well as aches and pains that can occur due to strep throat.
Vitamin C taken in high doses can help the body overcome a strep throat infection. Vitamin C supplementation can also support the body in many other ways. While vitamin C is present in some plant-based foods, supplementing with vitamin C is the best way to take it in high doses.
Zinc is an essential mineral, and is necessary for proper function of the immune system. This means it can help protect against a strep infection. Zinc supports the immune system by helping to prevent the replication of unwanted bacteria, such as streptococcus pyogenes.
Eucalyptus oil is an essential oil which can stimulate immunity as well as relieve a sore throat. To use it, you can put eucalyptus oil into a diffuser and inhale it, or add a few drops to hot water yourself and gently inhale the steam. A few drops can also be applied to the skin of the throat and chest, which can be therapeutic.
If you or your child come down with strep throat, these supplements can help bring relief. Most of these are useful even if you take an antibiotic for a strep throat infection. However, we recommend that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement, especially if you are also using a prescription.