Take Care of Your Voice: Home Remedies

During allergy and cold season, I’m sure there are many days when you feel that your throat is scratchy and your post nasal drip is getting the better of you. And yet, you still have to go out there and use your voice. We’d like to share some home remedies that others have shared with us. See if they work for you.

1. Warm water with lemon and honey; the lemon helps to remove phlegm while the honey soothes and coats your throat

2. If you don’t have any water around, mint candies are a great way to keep your throat wet.

Yummy Tip: Try adding fresh mint to your warm water for a delicious mint tea that not only keeps your vocal cords happy, but your taste buds as well .

3. Chicken soup is reputed to heal all ailments, well it does help with colds and is great for your throat.

4. Ginger; fresh ginger can help soothe inflamed mucous membranes of the larynx. Try sucking on candied ginger if available or drink a cup of ginger tea; To prepare the tea, cut a fresh 1- to 2-inch gingerroot into thin slices and place in 1 quart boiling water. Cover the pot and simmer on the lowest heat for 30 minutes. Let cool for 30 more minutes, strain, and drink 1/2 to 1 cup three to five times a day. Sweeten with honey if needed.

5. Garlic is also very good for your throat. If you have a strong stomach and no social events to attend suck on a slice of garlic. Garlic, when sliced or crushed, releases the antimicrobial substance allicin. Allicin kills bacteria, including strep and some viruses.

6. Steam; Bring half a pot of water to boil, remove from stove, and place on a protected surface. Drape a towel over your head, lean forward over the pot, and breathe gently for 10 to 15 minutes. Be careful not to stick your face too close. Repeat in the evening before bedtime