Clinical Corner: Sore Throats

Sore Throats

A common condition that is characterized by pain, discomfort, or irritation in the throat. Sore throats can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, dry air, smoking, and acid reflux.

 

A. Treatment

Applications: Choose one or more of the following applications

 

1. Internal

Single Oils: Bay Laurel, Ginger, turmeric

1-3 drops in water 1-2 x a day

gargling with these same oils may be helpful
* Thyme Thuyanol , Thyme Linalool, Thyme Geraniol taken internally (1-3 drops in water) can be fortifying to the immune system

 

2. Sustained Inhalation

Single Oils: Thyme, Myrrh, Camphor

Sustained Inhalation for 3 to 15 breathing cycles

Throat

Throat minor (bottom of the throat)

Back throat

 

3. Ointment

Ravintsara (not Ravensara) applied to the throat as an ointment helps with sore throats and related symptoms. Ravintsara has a balancing effect on the nervous system.

20-30 drops of essential oil added to one ounce of massage oil applied to the throat and upper chest.

 

4. Diffuser:

Single Oils: Bay Laurel, Eucalyptus Radiata, Eucalyptus Globulus

Blends: Lymphatic Blend

Diffuse one of the above essential oils to treat sore throats and to help prevent sore throats especially during cold and flu season

 

5. Tinctures

– Echinacea Supreme (3 kinds of echinacea blended together)

1 droppers full 2x a day

– Reishi Mushroom

1 droppers full 2x a day

 

6. Body Tonic

Apply Herbal Thieves / Immune Support to abdomen, chest, and throat areas 2-3x a day

 

7. Apothecary Geek: Ginger Tonic

Take internally in cases of reflux which can cause a sore throat

 

B. Symptoms

– Pain or discomfort in the throat, especially when swallowing.

– Redness or swelling in the throat.

– Hoarseness or loss of voice.

– Swollen glands in the neck.

– Coughing.

– Fever or chills.

– Headache or body aches.

 

C. Causes

– Viral infections

– Bacterial infections

– Stagnant Lymph

– Grief

– Allergies

– Exposure to dry air, smoke, pollution, or other irritants can cause sore throats.

– Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat.

– Yelling, talking loudly, or singing for long periods of time can strain the vocal cords and cause a sore throat.

– Breathing through the mouth can cause the throat to become dry and irritated, leading to a sore throat.

– Postnasal drip