Sore throats can be caused by a variety of problems.
They can make talking painful and cause you to shiver with pain when you cough.
Finding relief is a top priority, and there are a lot of methods to choose from.
Cherry Bark: The inner bark of the wild cherry has been a treatment for sore throats for thousands of years.
The reason it works is cyanide.
While a lot of it can be deadly, the small amount found in this bark simply stops the cough reflex.
It is best to allow a qualified herbal practitioner prepare it, as you don't want to have too much.
Eucalyptus: As you can probably tell from cough drop packages, the essential oils of this tree can help deal with these symptoms.
This oil is very strong.
There are age restrictions on it; children under two should not ingest it or have the oil used around them.
Children under six should not ingest it, even in a cough drop.
Honey & Lemon: This is one medication that most kids actually enjoy.
Mix equal parts honey and lemon, then give it in tablespoon doses as needed.
One word of caution, this should not be given to children under two.
Licorice and Marshmallow: Mixed or used separately, the nature of these herbs is to coat your throat so that you don't feel the pain and you can stop coughing.
If you have high blood pressure, use only the marshmallow.
Also, do not take laxatives with the plant as it can cause serious health problems.
Mary's Cold Tea: A mixture of allspice, cinnamon and cloves boiled together for about twenty minutes can provide a tasty remedy.
If it's for a cough only, adding ginger will be useful.
If you are a diabetic, check with your doctor before using the cinnamon, as it may lower your blood sugar levels.
If you are given the green light, be sure to check your sugar levels often.
Salt Water: This mixture is a teaspoon of salt in a glass of hot water.
Stir until it melts, then gargle with it.
Don't swallow it, as it can do nasty things to your stomach.
There are times when home remedies are not enough.
Symptoms to look for to make this determination include pain that lasts for more than two weeks, a high fever is accompanying it, or if you have colored phlegm when you cough or blow your nose.
Also, if it seems to be getting better, then suddenly worsens, that's a danger sign.
Under any of these conditions, make an appointment with your doctor.
You may have developed an infection that will need medication to get over.
Make sure the doctor knows of any medications or supplements you're using to avoid drug/herb interactions.