Strep throat, a common yet contagious bacterial infection, affects millions yearly. It’s commonly characterized by a sudden onset of a sore throat, pain while swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Seeking immediate care from a health expert can avoid complications. While doctor-prescribed remedies are the primary treatment, many people use home remedies to alleviate symptoms and support recovery. Natural remedies can help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with the condition.

Signs of strep throat
It is important for one to identify the signs of strep throat to help remedy the condition early. A few common signs include fever, pain when swallowing, red and swollen tonsils, and white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils.

Home remedies

Honey
Taking some raw honey can provide the body with some much-needed antioxidants. These health-promoting components can boost the individual’s immune system while soothing their strep throat. Honey is packed with antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that help fight the condition. Its consistency also shields the throat’s inner lining with a barrier that prevents infections.

Herbal tea
This is another soothing remedy for strep throat, as it helps reduce inflammation and alleviate throat pain. Chamomile tea, with its high antioxidant content, is an excellent option for relieving congestion and lowering inflammation, swelling, and redness. Alternatively, affected individuals can also use dandelion tea as an effective strep throat remedy. The plant is also known for its ability to aid with upset stomachs and infections. It can also help calm a person and strengthen their immune response.

Vitamin C-rich foods
This vitamin is useful for repairing and strengthening the immune system. It helps the throat recover from damage and protects against a range of health concerns. One should include vitamin C-rich foods like kale, strawberries, oranges, and kiwi in one’s meal plan when dealing with strep throat. If swallowing these foods is painful, try blending them into a smoothie so that it does not irritate the throat. Taking 1,000 mg of the vitamin daily is recommended if one is likely to get sick. But if one is already dealing with an infection, one can take up to 4000 mg. It is important to consult an expert to determine the quantity one should take.

Bone broth
This healthy, tasty, and nutrient-rich fluid helps deal with strep throat naturally. It provides the body with the needed minerals and boosts the immune system, especially for those with swollen tonsils and a sore throat. Minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, and silica can easily be absorbed by the affected person’s body. Bone broth also has other benefits for the respiratory and digestive systems, cognitive ability, and bone health.

Saltwater gargling
This is a go-to remedy for strep throat. Add about a fourth or half a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and use this solution to gargle properly. Repeat this at least twice daily to help with strep throat or other throat infections. It can help lower the inflammation levels and pain in the throat.
Saltwater acts as a lubricant for the throat and eliminates the germs causing the infection. But, if the symptoms persist, it is best to combine this home remedy with a doctor-prescribed remedy for strep throat.

Eat soft foods
Dealing with throat pain can be difficult, as it can make swallowing difficult and deter one from eating properly. One can choose soft and soothing foods that are easier to swallow and less painful. Healthy food options include rice, soup, oatmeal, pasta, mashed potato, and yogurt. Make sure to stay away from acidic and spicy food ingredients like hot sauce and salsa, as well as crunchy or hard foods, as these can aggravate the pain.

Use a humidifier
The FDA suggests using a cool mist humidifier as a natural home remedy against strep throat. But it advises against using a warm mist humidifier as it might cause nasal congestion or aggravate the condition in some individuals . It can also make breathing more difficult and increase the risk of burns. On the other hand, a cool mist humidifier might not have these side effects and assists in fighting strep throat. The humidifier must be cleaned and maintained according to the directions provided. Failing to do so might lead to the growth of bacteria and mold in the device .

Rest
Remember to take sufficient rest when dealing with the condition. Research suggests that rest and sleep are connected to how well the person’s immune system functions. Clocking in fewer sleep hours could mean the person has a compromised immune system. Similarly, consistently getting the right amount of sleep can improve one’s immune response, which can further help fight against a sore throat faster.

Stay hydrated
This is one key remedy to combat strep throat. Affected individuals should keep themselves well-hydrated with water or other fluids. The daily recommended water intake is at least 8 cups. The amount of hot and cold fluids taken will help keep the person hydrated and prevent their throat from drying. It is also advised to avoid acidic beverages like tomato juice.