Sore throats can be the first sign of a developing cold, although a tendency to “streptococcal throats” — as they are sometimes labelled — can be associated with underlying food allergy and candidiasis. Sore throats can also herald pharyngitis, tonsillitis or German measles with inflammations caused by viral or bacterial infection. As always, if the problem is recurrent, then the cause may be associated with stress (caused by overwork or food intolerance) or a reduced resistance to infection.

This can be especially true with tonsil problems, since these organs are simply small packs of lymphatic tissue at the back of the throat which help protect the body from infection. With children prone to tonsillitis, cutting out milk and milk products and using soya substitutes can often solve otherwise intractable problems. In severe cases the tonsil can become filled with pus, causing an abscess or quinsy which can need urgent surgical treatment, so do not delay in seeking professional help if the problem does not show signs of improvement within 24 hours.

Herbal BeautyMild sore throats will often clear in two or three days with or without treatment but the discomfort can be eased by gargles using infusions of herbs like sage, agrimony or raspberry leaf. Alternatively, add 5 ml of tincture to a glass of water — echinacea, thyme or golden seal are effective, although the taste is not pleasant!

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box or larynx and vocal cords usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause hoarseness or even a complete loss of voice. If symptoms persist for more than a few days then professional investigation is needed in case there is some major problem such as a growth causing the hoarseness. Minor cases can be relieved by gargles (agrimony and echinacea work well, either individually or a mixture of the two) and steam inhalations using thyme, peppermint or eucalyptus oil.

I once had a very severe attack of laryngitis at a herb conference where I had to give what turned out to be an extremely hoarse lecture. Juliette de Bairacli Levy — one of herbalism’s grandes dames — was also speaking at the event and her recommended cure was certainly my favorite: plenty of ice cream and honey. It didn’t instantly restore sound but was very palatable.

Immune weakness

Persistent colds, crops of boils, chronic fatigue or repeated urinary infections, can often indicate reduced resistance. The body’s immunity can be stretched by stress, overwork and food allergies, making it harder to combat bacteria, viruses and fungi. Many common organisms are extremely opportunist and while we all harbour numerous potentially lethal bacteria in and on our bodies all the time, if the system is weakened in any way these can very rapidly get out of hand.

Many tonic herbs have a reputation for strengthening the immune system and anyone feeling generally run down or suffering constant minor infections may benefit. Garlic, echinacea and the various types of ginseng have long been used in this way and all are generally best taken for periods of three or four weeks followed by a break. A number of traditional Chinese tonics can also boost the immune system and some are becoming available in the West: the list includes the shiitake mushroom — now available in numerous supermarkets — which is well worth brewing into a soup for those winter days when colds are all too prevalent.

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Effective Herbal Treatments for Sore Throats, Tonsillitis and Laryngitis