A strep throat is a bacterial infection that is manifested by sores and swelling. It is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes and it can be very painful and unpleasant condition.
This condition may progress into much more serious conditions such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. It is very important to treat it as soon as you notice the first symptoms.
Usually, antibiotics are prescribed in cases of bacterial infections that are contagious. However, scientists have proven that antibiotics only partially cure strep throat. This is why you should try a safer and more natural approach for treating this infection. The following home remedies are very efficient in strengthening the immune system as well as relieving the symptoms.
- Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which has strong antibacterial properties. It kills the harmful bacteria while promoting the growth of the beneficial bacteria.
- Vitamin D
The International Journal of Infectious Diseases has published a study where it was discovered that vitamin D deficiency can cause recurrence of respiratory conditions. This vitamin is also very good for strengthening the immune system.
- Oil pulling
Oil pulling is a method that reduces the presence of the harmful strep bacteria in the mouth. Coconut oil is particularly beneficial for this method. Take a few tablespoons of coconut oil and swish them in the mouth for about 10 minutes, spit it out and rinse with water.
- Raw honey
Honey has the ability to prevent infections due to its potent antibacterial properties. It also contains antioxidants which soothe strep throat and also strengthen the immune system.
- Elderberry
Elderberry is another very efficient home remedy for strep throat because of the antiviral and antibacterial properties. You can take elderberry in the form of capsules, powder, tea or even liquid.
- Himalayan salt
Himalayan salt also has antibacterial as well as anti-inflammatory properties and it can relieve the swelling caused by strep throat. Gargling with pink Himalayan salt will alkalize the mouth making it an unfriendly environment for the bacteria to breed in.
- Lemon oil
Lemon oil is excellent for preventing the growth of the antibiotic-resistant bacteria and it also has the ability to detoxify the body. To treat strep throat, drink a mixture of 1-2 drops of lemon oil and a glass of water.
- Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil can relieve the pain and discomfort due to strep throat because of the cooling sensation it provides. You can apply the oil topically on the temples, chest and throat or you can drink 2 drops of peppermint oil dissolved in a glass of water.
- Bone broth
Bone broth keeps the body hydrated and also strengthens the immune system because of the magnesium, phosphorus and calcium it contains.
- Herbal tea
Herbal tea, such as dandelion tea, is excellent for soothing the pain caused by inflammation in case of a strep throat. Chamomile tea, on the other hand, can treat congestion, redness, swelling and pain due to the abundance of antioxidants.