With the abrupt shift in weather, many people are falling sick, and one of the most common ailments during this transitional period is strep throat. Health experts say early spring — the season we’re currently in — is when this bacterial infection tends to peak.
Strep throat is caused by a bacterium known as Streptococcus pyogenes. It spreads through airborne droplets, especially when you come in close contact with an infected person. Common symptoms include a sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, red and inflamed tonsils, fever, and headaches. While children are often affected, individuals with weak immune systems or those frequently exposed to infected people are also at risk.
Maintaining proper hygiene and being extra cautious is crucial to preventing the spread of this infection. Along with these measures, several home remedies can help alleviate the symptoms and speed up recovery. Take a look at some of the most effective natural treatments for strep throat:
# Honey and Black PepperHoney is a powerful natural antibiotic. Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of black pepper and slowly lick the mixture. This provides a soothing effect and helps ease throat discomfort quickly.
# Ginger TeaChop a small piece of fresh ginger and boil it in water. Strain and enjoy it as tea. You can also add a teaspoon of honey for extra relief. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for throat infections.
# Apple Cider VinegarMix 1–2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in half a cup of warm water and use it as a gargle. Alternatively, if you can tolerate the taste, add the same amount to a cup of water and sip it throughout the day for added benefits.
# Licorice Root
Boil 2–3 small pieces of licorice root in water and use this decoction to gargle. Licorice root is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, offering quick relief from pain and infection.
# Peppermint Oil SteamAdd a few drops of peppermint oil to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel, lean over the bowl, and inhale the steam. This method helps reduce inflammation and promotes faster healing.
# Green TeaLoaded with antioxidants, green tea soothes throat irritation and supports a quicker recovery from the infection.
# Honey with Garlic and CayenneChop two garlic cloves and mix them with a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Consume this mixture every 2–3 hours. Garlic's antimicrobial properties combined with honey and cayenne make it a potent remedy.
# Eucalyptus Oil SteamAdd a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. This helps relieve congestion and speeds up the healing process.