10 Strep Throat Remedies For Fast Relief

Strep throat, a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, can be a painful and frustrating condition to deal with. The symptoms of strep throat, including a severely sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing, can significantly impact daily life. While antibiotics are often prescribed to treat strep throat, there are also several home remedies and natural treatments that can help alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery. Here, we will explore 10 strep throat remedies for fast relief, along with an in-depth look at the condition itself and how these remedies can be used in conjunction with medical treatment.

Understanding Strep Throat

Before diving into the remedies, it’s essential to understand what strep throat is and how it’s diagnosed. Strep throat is a contagious infection that can be spread through close contact with someone who has the infection, usually through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The diagnosis of strep throat typically involves a physical examination, medical history, and a rapid strep test or throat culture. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

1. Stay Hydrated with Warm Liquids

Staying hydrated is vital when dealing with strep throat, as it helps to keep the throat moist and soothe the pain. Warm liquids, such as tea, broth, or soup, can be particularly comforting. You can also try drinking warm water with a squeeze of lemon or honey to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria. For example, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that honey has antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial infections like strep throat.

2. Gargle with Salt Water

Gargling with salt water several times a day can help reduce swelling and kill bacteria in the throat. Mix ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This remedy can be especially helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms and promoting faster recovery. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, gargling with salt water can help reduce throat pain and inflammation.

3. Use a Humidifier

Dry air can irritate the throat and make symptoms worse. Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and relieve congestion. You can also try inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or a steam inhaler to help loosen mucus and reduce throat pain. A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that humidifiers can help alleviate respiratory symptoms, including those associated with strep throat.

4. Try Throat Coat Tea

Throat Coat tea is a herbal remedy that combines ingredients like slippery elm, licorice root, and marshmallow root to help soothe and protect the throat. This tea can be especially helpful in reducing inflammation and promoting healing. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that slippery elm has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the throat and reduce pain.

5. Use Honey to Soothe the Throat

Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat strep throat. You can try mixing honey with warm water or tea to create a soothing drink, or take it straight from the spoon to help calm the throat. According to a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, honey has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of cold and flu symptoms, including sore throat.

6. Apply a Warm Compress

Applying a warm compress to the throat can help reduce pain and inflammation. You can try using a warm washcloth or a heating pad set on low. This remedy can be especially helpful in relieving throat pain and promoting relaxation. A study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that warm compresses can help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat.

7. Try Slippery Elm Lozenges

Slippery elm lozenges are a natural remedy that can help soothe and protect the throat. They contain mucilages, which are complex carbohydrates that can help calm inflammation and reduce pain. For example, a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that slippery elm lozenges can help reduce throat pain and inflammation in patients with strep throat.

8. Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial properties that can help combat strep throat. You can try mixing apple cider vinegar with water to create a gargle solution, or take it as a shot to help reduce symptoms. According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial infections like strep throat.

9. Try Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry syrup is a natural remedy that has been shown to have antiviral and antibacterial properties. It can help reduce the severity of symptoms and promote faster recovery. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that elderberry syrup can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms, including sore throat.

10. Get Plenty of Rest

Finally, getting plenty of rest is essential when dealing with strep throat. This can help your body recover from the infection and reduce the risk of complications. Aim to get at least 8-10 hours of sleep per night and try to avoid strenuous activities that can exacerbate symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, getting plenty of rest is crucial for recovering from strep throat and preventing complications.

In conclusion, while strep throat can be a painful and frustrating condition, there are several home remedies and natural treatments that can help alleviate symptoms and promote faster recovery. By staying hydrated, gargling with salt water, using a humidifier, and trying throat coat tea, you can help reduce the severity of symptoms and promote healing. Remember to always consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan, and to get plenty of rest to help your body recover from the infection.