Even after all the handwashing, the healthy food, the immune supporting supplements… one of us seems to come down with something. A sore throat seems to be the first sign of back-to-school illness for us. Most of the time, a sort throat is self limiting, although uncomfortable – but when it is accompanied by a fever and a tummy ache, it may be something more. If after a few days of resting and trying some sore throat remedies, a visit to the doctor may be advised.
Here are a few soothing things to do to help you and your loved ones ease the pain of a sore throat.
Salt water gargle: Studies have shown that gargling with salt water can help ease the pain and discomfort associated with a sore throat. Mix 1/4 tsp to 1/2 tsp of salt in 8 ounces of water and gargle throughout the day.
Warm soothing liquids: Chicken soup with lots of garlic, onion and real chicken can help anyone feel better. Drink ginger tea with honey throughout the day. (Steep raw ginger in boiling water for 10 minutes and add honey.)
Fever relief: A cool washcloth on the forehead can help provide relief from fever.
Pathway Kids Biotic: 30 drops 3 times per day (it’s based on weight, so check the label). This is a synergistic herbal formula designed to support immune function during a cold or flu, either bacterial or viral, or for a sinus infection. Key ingredients include goldenseal, osha, echinacea, licorice, Oregon grape root, myrrh and wild indigo.
Pathway Ginger Zinger Cough: Not just for coughs, this formula has herbs to help soothe a sore throat.
Before you dismiss antibiotics, keep in mind that if your child does have strep, if left untreated it can become something more serious. However, not all sore throats are strep (only about 30%). So, talk to your doctor about the possibility of waiting to administer antibiotics.
Photo from here, with thanks.
