Authored by R. Elizabeth C. Kitchen in Diseases
Published on 07-10-2009

Strep throat is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes. It is highly contagious and needs to be diagnosed and treated quickly. Traditional strep throat treatments include antibiotics and pain relievers. Since traditional antibiotics and pain relievers can cause a number of side effects many patients turn to home remedies for strep throat.

Strep throat often causes throat irritation. A common home remedy for strep throat to combat the associated throat irritation is gargling with salt water. Those using this remedy should make sure that the water is warm, and they should do it three to four times daily as symptoms persist. This home remedy is also effective in helping to kill any bacteria that may be breeding in the throat.

Certain herbal teas are effective home remedies for strep throat. Such herbal teas include thyme, chamomile, rosemary, sage, jasmine, lavender and peppermint. These teas are most effective in relieving throat irritation and pain. However, they can also be beneficial in alleviating the other symptoms of strep throat such as nausea and diarrhea. When using herbal teas as a home remedy for strep throat one can elect to drink a variety of these teas several times a day as symptoms persist.

Horseradish can be a very beneficial home remedy for strep throat. It is capable of reducing any mucous that builds up due to strep throat. If is also effective in alleviating throat irritation. Those using this home remedy for strep throat only need to use small amounts of horseradish and can use it a few times a day. If the taste is too powerful users can put it in food.

There are a few home remedies for strep throat that do not directly help to heal the condition, but they can help to promote sleep. Many people with strep throat find it difficult to sleep. These herbs include passion flower and ginseng. These herbs are most effective in promoting sleep when consumed as a tea.

Getting plenty of sleep and drinking plenty of fluids is probably the most effective home remedy for strep throat. This may seem like an obvious home remedy, but it is often overlooked. Those taking antibiotics often need more fluids to avoid dehydration and those with an infection will need more sleep to recover faster.

Another common home remedy for strep throat is the use of herbal antibiotics. Some herbs have the ability to act as an antibiotic. They will not replace traditional antibiotics, but they can compliment them and speed up the recovery process. These herbs include echinacea, garlic, goldenseal and kelp.

Those using home remedies for strep throat should still consult a physician. These home remedies are meant to help alleviate the symptoms, not cure the infection. Traditional antibiotics are still necessary, but these home remedies for strep throat can help to minimize side effects and the symptoms of the infection. It is also important to make sure that these home remedies will not interact with any medically prescribed medications or medical conditions before using them.