Four Natural Remedies for Laryngitis
Natural remedies for laryngitis are therapeutic options that can serve as adjuvants (secondary treatments) for the symptoms of this illness. Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, vocal cords, or voice box, which is found in the front part of the throat.
It is caused by excessive use, irritation, or an infection in the area. Its main symptom is a distortion of the voice or hoarseness, but it can also produce problems swallowing, a sore throat, a dry cough, and a feeling of dryness, among other discomforts.
Generally, non-serious cases get better by themselves in about a week. However, it’s important to try some natural remedies that help calm the symptoms. Likewise, it’s important to pay attention to possible complications, since you might need to see a doctor about it.
4 natural remedies for laryngitis
According to information from the Mayo Clinic, laryngitis can be acute when it lasts a short time. However, it can also be a chronic problem if it stays for a long period of time. In the latter case, you’ll have to see your doctor for other tests, since it could indicate an undiagnosed condition that requires more care.
Non-serious cases are usually caused by common viral infections or too much vocal effort. Due to this, some natural remedies can help you. In any case, if you have any doubts, make sure you talk to your doctor before trying them. Let’s take a look at four options.
Read also: Uses and Medicinal Properties of Cinnamon
1. Fresh garlic with honey
Fresh garlic with honey is one of the natural remedies you can use to fight laryngitis. While there isn’t any evidence that proves that this combination alleviates laryngitis, there are individual studies that show its benefits against infections and irritation.
A review of studies published in Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine indicates that garlic has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that could be useful for respiratory infections.
Meanwhile, sources like Canadian Family Physician suggest that honey can help alleviate coughs in children over one year old, which would also alleviate the symptoms of laryngitis. Be sure not to give it to babies under 12 months old due to the low immunity against bacteria like Clostridium botulinum, that can cause infant botulism.
How to prepare this remedy
- You just have to crush a clove of raw garlic and mix it with a tablespoon of organic honey. You can take this remedy once or twice a day.
2. Gargle salt water
A traditional remedy for throat problems like laryngitis is gargling salt water. According to popular literature, it’s a useful mixture for reducing irritation. However, as indicated by the National Health Service (NHS), it’s not a good option for kids.
How to prepare this remedy
- First, add half a teaspoon of salt (2 grams) in a glass of water, stirring well.
- Then, gargle it for two to three minutes. Don’t swallow the liquid.
- Repeat the remedy twice a day.
3. Inhale eucalyptus vapor
A simple remedy that can be useful to alleviate laryngitis and its symptoms is to inhale eucalyptus vapors. In fact, it’s a remedy that can also help alleviate flu and cold symptoms, and sore throat, according to a review published in Flavor and Fragrance Journal.
How to prepare this remedy
- The only thing you need to do is add 10 drops of eucalyptus oil to boiling water.
- Then, pour the water into a large bowl, lower your head over it, and cover your head with a towel. Inhale the steam for 5 minutes.
You might also like to read: 7 Tips to Overcome Bronchitis at Home
4. Gargle apple cider vinegar
Formulas with apple cider vinegar have diverse applications in traditional medicine, although there’s a lack of evidence to prove its safety and efficiency. However, gargling it is normally safe and can be useful thanks to the antimicrobial properties of apple cider vinegar.
How to prepare this remedy
- First, pour one tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water.
- Then, gargle the mixture for two or three minutes and spit.
- Use this remedy twice a day until you feel better.
What else can help treat laryngitis?
In addition to the remedies we mentioned, there are other things you can do to alleviate laryngitis. According to an article published in National Center for Biotechnology Information, these can include:
- Resting your voice and avoiding overexertion
- Avoiding irritants like alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine
- Increasing your liquid consumption
- Avoiding spicy and greasy foods
Don’t take antibiotics unless a doctor prescribes them. Self-medicating can be harmful to your health.
Finally, it’s important to highlight that any sign of complications should be treated by a professional. The doctor is the only one who can determine if other treatment options are necessary. Keep that in mind!
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
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