How to relieve itching

Itchy skin, or what doctors call pruritus, can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Fortunately, many natural and home remedies can help provide relief.

According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), people who frequently experience itchy skin may have difficulty sleeping and may become depressed or anxious. They may also scratch their skin, causing small tears, which are prone to infection.

Common causes of itchy skin include insect bites, allergies, stress, and skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis.

This article outlines some of the best natural and home remedies for itching.

1. Applying menthol

Menthol is an essential oil found in plants of the mint family. It has a cooling effect and can help relieve pain and itching.

A 2012 study investigated whether peppermint oil, which contains menthol, could effectively treat itchy skin in pregnant women.

Researchers divided the participants into two groups. One group received a bottle of sesame oil infused with a 0.5 percent concentration of peppermint oil. The other group received a bottle containing a combination of sesame and olive oils.

Participants applied the oils to areas of itchy skin twice a day for 2 weeks. Those who used the peppermint-infused oil reported a significant reduction in itch severity compared to those who used the other product.

Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin.

2. Cooling the itch

The American Academy of Dermatology suggest that a good way to relieve itchy skin is to apply a cold, wet cloth or ice pack to the affected area for 5–10 minutes.

Cooling helps reduce inflammation that may be contributing to the itch.

Another option is to keep moisturizing creams and lotions in the refrigerator. This will ensure they have a direct cooling effect when a person applies them to the skin.

3. Wet wrap therapy

Wet wrap therapy (WWT) involves applying water-soaked fabric wraps made of gauze or surgical netting to areas of itchy skin.

These wraps rehydrate and soothe skin while providing a physical barrier that protects against scratching. This treatment can be especially beneficial for children.

WWT may also help the skin to absorb medications, such as topical steroids. Before applying the wraps, gently rub or pat medications on the area, and follow with a generous layer of moisturizer.

The NEA suggest the following steps for applying wet wraps:

1. Moisten a section of gauze in warm water until it becomes damp.
2. Wrap the gauze around the itchy area of skin.
3. Wrap a dry piece of gauze over the top of the damp one.
4. Carefully put on soft, cotton pajamas, taking care not to disturb the bandages.
5. Leave the bandages on for several hours or overnight.

A person can use WWT for a few days to control an intense flare-up of itching. If itching does not subside, it is best to talk to a doctor or dermatologist about extending the therapy or trying an alternative treatment.

4. Colloidal oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal is finely ground oatmeal that a person can dissolve in water. The resulting solution forms a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, which helps to seal in moisture. Colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve dryness and itching.

Colloidal oatmeal also has known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which help to reduce skin irritation.

A small study from 2015 found that colloidal oatmeal reduced scaling, dryness, roughness, and the intensity of itching in healthy females with mild to moderate itching.

Colloidal oatmeal is widely available in creams and lotions. Alternatively, a person can add the finely ground powder directly to bath water.

5. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which people have used for thousands of years as a natural wound disinfectant and antiseptic.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), apple cider vinegar may be particularly helpful in relieving an itchy scalp.

The NPF recommend diluting the vinegar in water using a 1-to-1 ratio. Apply the solution to the scalp and let it dry before rinsing it gently with lukewarm water.

Vinegar can cause a burning sensation on open wounds. People with cracked and bleeding skin should avoid this treatment.

6. Moisturizing

Moisturizers, such as creams and lotions, can help hydrate the outermost layer of the skin. They are often essential for managing skin conditions that cause itching and dryness.

A good moisturizer will contain humectants and emollients. Humectants draw water into the skin, while emollients form a protective film over the skin's surface, which helps lock in moisture.

It is best to apply moisturizers soon after a bath or shower, while the skin is still a little damp.

The NEA provide the following tips on developing a good moisturizing routine:

• use a moisturizer with high oil content
• moisturize hands whenever they have come into contact with water
• moisturize before going to bed to help the skin stay hydrated through the night

7. Baking soda

Baking soda has antifungal properties, and research suggests it is an effective treatment for a range of fungal skin conditions, many of which can cause itching.

The NEA recommend adding one-quarter of a cup of baking soda to a warm bath. An alternative option is to mix the baking soda with a little water to form a paste, which a person can apply directly onto itchy areas.

8. Avoiding irritants

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people should avoid possible irritants, as they may make itchiness worse. Possible irritants include:

Hot water

Bathing and showering in hot water remove moisture from the skin, making it more prone to dryness, redness, and itching. Reducing the water temperature even by a few degrees can help.

Temperature and humidity changes

Extreme changes in temperature and humidity can dry out the skin, causing flaking and itching.

A humidifier can help to maintain indoor humidity in the dry summer months. It can also help to counteract the drying effects of central heating during winter.

Fragranced skincare products

Some skincare products contain additives, such as perfumes and artificial colors, which can cause or worsen skin irritation.

People with itchy or sensitive skin should use fragrance-free and dye-free skincare products.

Wool and synthetic fibers

Clothing made from wool or synthetic fibers can feel rough against the skin, causing itchiness and irritation. Some people are more sensitive than others.

People with itchy skin can choose to wear loose-fitting cotton clothing whenever possible. Cotton allows the skin to breathe and prevents overheating.

Stress

Studies show that psychological stress can trigger itching. People who experience increased itchiness in times of stress may benefit from trying specific stress-reduction techniques, such as yoga and mindfulness meditation.

When to see a doctor

People can treat many cases of itching at home with an effective cleansing and moisturizing routine.

However, a person should see a doctor if they experience the following symptoms:

• itching that persists for more than 2 weeks, or flares up on a regular basis
• itching accompanied by an unusual rash, bumps, or swelling
• signs of an infection, such as inflammation or weeping sores
• itching that affects the entire body

The above symptoms could indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical attention.

A doctor may also be able to recommend topical creams and medicines to relieve a person's itching.

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12 natural remedies for eczema

Home remedies and natural treatments can soothe the dry, itching skin that comes with eczema.

People can use creams, natural products, and dietary and lifestyle changes to manage or prevent eczema flares, especially in the winter, when symptoms tend to be at their worst.

Natural substances, such as aloe vera gel and coconut oil, can moisturize dry, broken skin. They can also combat inflammation and harmful bacteria to reduce swelling and prevent infection.

Natural remedies cannot cure eczema, but they can help manage the symptoms and prevent flares. This article looks at the best natural remedies for eczema.

1. Aloe vera gel

Aloe vera gel is derived from the leaves of the aloe plant. People have used aloe vera gel for centuries to treat a wide range of ailments. One common use is to soothe eczema.

A systematic review from 2015 looked at the effects of aloe vera on human health. The researchers reported that the gel has the following types of properties:

• antibacterial
• antimicrobial
• immune system-boosting
• wound-healing

The antibacterial and antimicrobial effects can prevent skin infections, which are more likely to occur when a person has dry, cracked skin. Aloe's wound-healing properties may soothe broken skin and promote healing.

How to use it

People can buy aloe vera gel in health stores or online, or they can purchase an aloe vera plant and use the gel directly from its leaves.

Choose aloe gel products with few ingredients — others can contain preservatives, alcohol, fragrances, and colors, all of which can irritate sensitive skin. Alcohol and other drying ingredients could make eczema worse.

Start with a small amount of gel to check for skin sensitivity. Sometimes aloe vera can cause burning or stinging. Generally, however, it is safe and effective for adults and children.

2. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for many conditions, including skin disorders.

The National Eczema Association (NEA) report that apple cider vinegar may help with the condition. However, they recommend using caution, as the vinegar's acids can damage soft tissue.

No research has confirmed that apple cider vinegar reduces eczema symptoms, but there are several reasons why it could help:

Balancing the skin's acidity levels

Vinegar is highly acidic. The skin is naturally acidic, but people with eczema may have less acidic skin than others. This can weaken the skin's defenses.

Applying diluted apple cider vinegar could help balance the skin's acidity levels, but vinegar can cause burns if it is not diluted.

In contrast, many soaps, detergents, and cleansers are alkaline. They can disrupt the acidity of the skin, which can leave the skin vulnerable to damage. This may explain why washing with certain soaps can cause eczema flares.

Fighting bacteria

Studies have found that apple cider vinegar may fight bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Using apple cider vinegar on the skin could help keep broken skin from becoming infected.

How to use it

Always dilute apple cider vinegar before applying it to the skin. Undiluted vinegar can cause chemical burns or other injuries.

People can use the vinegar in wet wraps or baths, and it is available in most supermarkets and health stores.

To use apple cider vinegar in a wet wrap:

• Mix 1 cup of warm water and 1 tablespoon of the vinegar.
• Apply the solution to cotton or gauze.
• Cover the dressing in clean cotton fabric.
• Leave it on the area for 3 hours.

To try an apple cider vinegar bath soak:

• Add 2 cups of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath.
• Soak for 15–20 minutes.
• Rinse the body thoroughly.
• Moisturize within several minutes of leaving the bath.

3. Bleach in the bath

Although it may sound dangerous, research indicates that bleach in the bath can improve eczema symptoms due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

Bleach can kill the bacteria on the surface of the skin, including S. aureus, which causes staph infections. This may restore the microbiome of the skin's surface.

Conclusions of a 2015 review indicate that bleach baths could reduce the need for topical corticosteroid or antibiotic treatments. However, other research found no benefits of bleach baths, compared to regular baths.

How to use it

To make a bleach bath for eczema, use regular-strength (6 percent) plain bleach and try the following:

• Add half a cup of bleach to a full bathtub of water or 1 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water.
• Pour in the bleach while the bath is filling.
• Soak for 5–10 minutes.
• Rinse the body thoroughly with warm water.
• Gently pat the skin dry.

Use lukewarm water to prevent the skin from drying out, and moisturize immediately after drying.

If a person experiences any discomfort, irritation, or redness, they should stop using bleach in the bath. People with asthma or breathing problems should refrain from taking bleach baths, due to the strong fumes.

4. Colloidal oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal, also known as Avena sativa, is made from oats that have been ground and boiled to extract their skin-healing properties.

A 2015 study reports that colloidal oatmeal lotion had antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, resulting in improved:

• skin dryness
• scaling
• roughness
• itch intensity

According to the results of a randomized controlled trial, a colloidal oatmeal moisturizer worked better than a control.

How to use it

Add powdered colloidal oatmeal to a warm bath and soak.

Choose a colloidal oatmeal product that has oats as the only ingredient and avoid those with fragrances or additives. People can buy pure colloidal oatmeal from health stores or online.

Lotions and creams that contain colloidal oatmeal are also available for purchase online.

Colloidal oatmeal is generally safe for all ages, but people who are allergic to oats should avoid it. Individuals who are allergic to gluten should use caution, as oats are often processed with wheat.

5. Baths

Bathing is an important part of eczema treatment. When a person has a skin condition such as eczema, their skin needs extra moisture because the outer layer is not functioning as it should.

For some, washing often can dry out the skin and make eczema worse. This can occur when:

• using water that is too hot or cold
• using the wrong soap
• not moisturizing afterward

Avoid bathing too frequently. Most babies and children need bathing once or twice a week.

NEA recommend that adults:

• bathe or shower at least once a day
• use lukewarm water
• limit bathing to 10–15 minutes
• avoid scrubbing the skin
• use gentle cleansers instead of soaps
• try different types of medicinal baths, such as those with baking soda, vinegar, or oatmeal

A long, hot shower can remove natural oils and moisture from the skin. Take shorter showers and keep the water at a warm, not hot, temperature.

After bathing, moisturize within 3 minutes of getting out. Gently pat the skin dry with a towel and apply an oil-based moisturizer before the skin has fully dried. This can help seal in water from the shower or bath before it evaporates.

After washing and drying the hands, apply moisturizer to help prevent eczema flares on them.

6. Coconut oil

Coconut oil contains healthful fatty acids that can add moisture to the skin, which can help people with dry skin and eczema.

Also, virgin coconut oil may protect the skin by helping combat inflammation and by improving the health of the skin barrier.

A randomized clinical trial looked at the effects of applying virgin coconut oil to the skin in children. The results show that using the oil for 8 weeks improved the symptoms of eczema better than mineral oil.

How to use it

Apply cold-pressed virgin coconut oil directly to the skin after bathing and up to several times a day. Use it before bed to keep the skin moisturized overnight.

Extra-virgin coconut oil is generally solid at room temperature, but the warmth of a person's body turns it to liquid. The oil is sold in health stores and online.

People who are allergic to coconuts should not use coconut oil.

7. Honey

Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent, and people have used it to heal wounds for centuries.

Conclusions of a review confirm that honey can help heal wounds and boost immune system function, which means that it can help the body fight off infections.

Another review states that honey is useful for treating a variety of skin ailments, including burns and wounds, and that it has antibacterial capability.

Applied directly to eczema, honey could help prevent infections while moisturizing the skin and speeding healing.

How to use it

Try dabbing a little honey onto the area. Manuka honey products designed for wound care and skin application are also available in many drug stores and online.

8. Tea tree oil

Manufacturers derive tea tree oil from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. People often use this oil to help with skin problems, including eczema.

A 2013 review identifies anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound-healing properties in the oil. It may help relieve skin dryness and itching and help prevent infections.

How to use it

Always dilute essential oils before using them on the skin. Try mixing tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as almond or olive oil, then applying the solution. Some products include tea tree oil in a diluted form.

People can find the oil in health stores or online.

9. Dietary changes

Eczema is an inflammatory condition, which means that it causes inflamed, red, sore skin.

Certain foods can cause or reduce inflammation in the body, and making a few key dietary changes could help diminish eczema flares.

Examples of anti-inflammatory foods include:

• fish
• leafy greens
• beans and lentils
• colorful fruits
• vegetables
• turmeric and cinnamon

Common inflammatory foods include dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat. Try eliminating some of these from the diet and keep a food diary to help identify which foods may be problematic.

10. Gentle soaps and detergents

Many body washes and cleansers contain detergents, which help provide a soapy lather. Detergents and other lathering agents can dry out the skin, especially in people with eczema.

Bar soaps can also be harsh on the skin because of their alkalinity.

Try using a gentle, no-lather, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid products with rough particles for scrubbing or exfoliating, as these can further irritate the skin.

Many people with eczema also find that switching to a more gentle, fragrance- or color-free laundry detergent can help improve symptoms.

Try skipping fabric softener, which lingers on clothes and often contains fragrances and chemicals that can cause skin irritation.

11. Avoid strong heat sources

Sitting next to a fireplace or near a furnace may feel good, but it can make eczema symptoms worse. The hot, dry air can dehydrate the skin and aggravate the itchiness of eczema.

Use a humidifier during the dry winter months and avoid getting too close to heaters and fireplaces.

12. Wrap up in cold weather

Cold, harsh winter winds can dry out skin and cause eczema flares.

Keep the skin covered when temperatures are low. Also, consider covering the face with a scarf if eczema occurs on the face.

Home remedies for eczema in babies and children

Many home remedies are suitable for babies and children, but always speak to a doctor before using them on kids of any age.

The following home remedies may help:

• Avoid dressing a baby or child too warmly. Sweating can aggravate eczema or cause heat rash, which makes itching worse.
• Use mittens to prevent infants from scratching their skin.
• Apply a gentle moisturizer frequently to the affected areas, taking care not to get it in the eyes or nose.
• Do not cover a baby's face with a scarf. Infant car seat covers can help shield a baby from cold outside air. Check often to ensure that the baby is getting enough airflow.
• Ask a doctor before trying apple cider vinegar or bleach in the bath of a baby or child.
• Colloidal oatmeal baths are generally safe for children, but keep the bath water out of their eyes.
• Avoid bathing them too frequently. Most babies and children only need bathing once or twice a week unless they are visibly soiled. Bathing less frequently may help prevent dry skin.
• Use fragrance- and alcohol-free baby wipes. Many wipes contain irritating ingredients. Look for those without fragrance or alcohol and those that contain soothing ingredients, such as aloe vera. "Sensitive skin" wipes may be useful.
• Use baby shampoos intended for children with eczema. Many eczema washes can sting the eyes, so look for eczema washes that are "tear-free" and carefully avoid the child's eyes.

Outlook

There is no cure for eczema, but people can often manage their symptoms with home remedies, including natural gels and oils, medicated baths, and dietary changes.

If eczema is severe or does not respond to home treatments, it may be a good idea to see a doctor. Do so right away if a child or baby develops a new rash.

A doctor may prescribe steroid creams or other prescription medicines to treat the inflammation.

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Home remedies for Sweaty Palms and Feet

1 - Apple Cider Vinegar

One of the most effective home  remedies to deal with sweaty palms and feet is apple cider vinegar .

It has natural astringent properties that help control excessive sweating by keeping the pores tight.
Also, when taken internally, apple cider vinegar helps balance the body's pH level.

• Plus, apple cider vinegar boosts your body's metabolism to fight obesity, one of the reasons behind hyperhidrosis.

• Rinse the area that sweats the most with lukewarm water. Then, use a cotton ball to apply some raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar on the area. Leave it on overnight. 

        The next morning, take a bath of shower  and than apply some baby powder. In case you have              sensitive skin then mix dilute the apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water and then              apply.

• Alternatively, make a solution by mixing equal parts of apple cider vinegar and rosewater. Apply it on the affected area 2 or 3 times a day. 
• Also, you can add 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and a little honey to glass of lukewarm water and drink it twice daily.

2 -Cornstarch

  

 Another home remedy is easy to carry around with you, it is also a convenient option for people who travel a lot .

• Mix equal amounts  of cornstarch and baking soda and store it in an old talcum powder bottle.
• Remove excess sweat from the areas where you perspire most profusely with some tissue of paper towel.
• Dust some of this mixture onto the areas.
• Use this simple remedy as needed.

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Sore Throat Remedies: Natural Gargles

Gargling is a simple and remarkably effective way to kill germs and soothe a sore throat. Try one of these trusted homemade gargles next time you’re looking to relieve throat pain.

Sore throat remedy: Salt and water

Try one of grandma’s sore throat remedies by mixing 1⁄4 teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water. (Use the hottest water you can comfortably tolerate. Cold gargles are ineffective.) If you have it, add 1 tablespoon of Listerine for germ-killing power. The briny solution helps rinse away and neutralize acids in the throat, relieving the burning sensation and promoting fast healing of irritated mucous membranes. Note: Mix a fresh batch of gargle for every use. Better to waste a bit pouring it out than to leave it in your glass, where it might become contaminated with bacteria. Also, do not swallow the gargle; spit it out.

Sore throat remedy: Lemon and water

Mix 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in 1 cup of water for this sore throat remedy; the astringent juice will help shrink swollen throat tissue and create a hostile (acidic) environment for viruses and bacteria.

Sore throat remedy: Ginger, honey, and lemon in water

This sore throat home remedy mixes 1 teaspoon each of powdered ginger and honey, 1⁄2 cup of hot water, and the juice of 1⁄2 squeezed lemon. Pour the water over the ginger, then add the lemon juice and honey, and gargle. Honey coats the throat and also has mild antibacterial properties

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16 Soothing Strep Throat Home Remedies

Strep throat can be a painful and frustrating respiratory condition, making it hard to swallow, eat and sleep. Although the conventional treatment for strep throat is antibiotics, research shows that they only reduce the length of the illness by about half a day. They also don’t seem to affect time off from school or work. Because antibiotic-resistant bacteria is becoming a real threat, it’s helpful to try strep throat home remedies first. It’s also important to avoid close contact with others until your strep throat symptoms are gone; this way you won’t spread the bacteria and reinfect yourself.

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Strep Throat vs. Sore Throat

Sore throats are pain in the throat that is typically caused by a virus. It can be due to bacteria, allergies, pollution or throat dryness. Strep throat is an infection of the throat caused by bacteria. Sore throat is a symptom of strep throat and it’s also a symptom of other respiratory conditions. Both are contagious; they can be passed from person to person in any place with close contact.

Not many people with sore throats have bacterial infections. According to the Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement, viruses cause 85 to 95 percent of throat infections in adults and children younger than 5 years of age. Viruses cause about 70 percent of throat infections in those aged 5 to 15 years, with the other 30 percent due to bacterial infections, mostly group A strep. Natural sore throat remedies should be your first choice, as antibiotic treatment will not help a viral infection. (1)

It can be hard to tell the difference between strep throat symptoms and symptoms of a viral infection. Remember, while trying to make a self-diagnosis, that strep throat doesn’t include cold symptoms, like coughing, sneezing or runny nose. If you have a sore throat with cold symptoms, it’s likely caused by a viral infection and it’s not strep throat. (2) Try strep throat home remedies to find some relief from your symptoms.

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Causes & Symptoms of Strep Throat

Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils. It’s caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, also called group A strep. The group A strep bacteria is very contagious. It spreads through contact after an infected person coughs, sneezes, touches your mouth, nose or eyes. The bacteria also spreads by sharing a glass, utensil, plate or even a doorknob. This is why strep throat seems to happen more often in the colder months when people tend to be in closer quarters.

Strep throat symptoms typically start within five days of exposure to the strep bacteria; symptoms include (3) :

• Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
• Red and swollen tonsils
• Red spots on the roof of the mouth and a white or yellow coating on the throat and tonsils
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or above
• Headache and body aches
• Non-itching, red rash, which is a sign of scarlet fever. Scarlet fever is a serious bacterial infection. 

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Conventional Strep Throat Treatment

The most common strep throat treatment is antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin. Research suggests that just mentioning a sore throat to a doctor almost guarantees a prescription for antibiotics, even though viral infections cause 85 to 90 percent of sore throats in adults.

Studies show that antibiotics are only somewhat helpful when used for strep throat. They can improve symptoms at 3 to 4 days and cut the length of the illness by about half a day. Antibiotic treatment doesn’t seem to affect time off from school or work. (4)

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are also used to relieve the pain related to strep throat.

16 Strep Throat Home Remedies

Supplements:

1. Elderberry

Elderberry has antibacterial and antiviral effects. A recent study showed that elderberry can protect against respiratory symptoms during long flights. Researchers analyzed this due to the increased risk of getting upper respiratory disorders and virus and bacteria-induced respiratory infections on flights. They found that the travelers returning from overseas, who used elderberry, showed fewer respiratory symptoms than the placebo group.  (5)

You can drink elderberry tea, take capsules, or use elderberry powder. You can even buy it in liquid form.

2. Echinacea

Known as another way to prevent the common cold, researchers suggest that there are many powerful echinacea benefits, including its ability to work as an immuno-enhancing herb that can stop the spread of bacterial conditions like strep throat. There is good evidence suggesting that the phytochemicals in echinacea, and one of its compounds called echinacein, can keep bacteria and viruses from entering healthy cells. (6)

Echinacea can also be used to relieve pain related to strep throat, such as sore throat, headaches and body aches. It has anti-inflammatory effects that will help to reduce swelling in the throat and tonsils. Take echinacea in liquid form, as a tea or in capsule form as soon as symptoms appear.

3. Vitamin C

Use vitamin C to boost your immune system, repair tissue damage in the throat and decrease your risk of a wide range of illnesses. Take 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C to fight off an oncoming infection. Take 4,000 milligrams per day to get rid of an infection already in your system. (7) If you have strep throat and need to boost your vitamin C consumption, take a supplement and eat vitamin C foods like oranges, kale, strawberries, grapefruit and kiwi. If you are having trouble swallowing, try making a smoothie.

4. Vitamin D

Researchers have studied the link between vitamin D deficiency and respiratory infections for years. Scientific evidence shows the important role vitamin D plays in the immune system because of its antimicrobial defenses. A recent study published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseasesshows that there’s a link between vitamin D deficiency and the recurrence of respiratory conditions caused by group A strep bacteria. (8)

What to Eat and Drink:

5. Raw Honey

A daily dose of raw honey raises levels of health-promoting antioxidants in the body. This helps to boost the immune system and is one of several soothing strep throat home remedies. According to research published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, honey’s healing property is due to its antibacterial activity, ability to maintain a moist wound condition and its thick consistency that helps to create a protective barrier to prevent infection. Studies have found that medical grade honeys have strong bactericidal activity to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria that cause several life-threatening infections in humans. (9)

6. Bone Broth

Bone broth helps to keep you hydrated and it provides minerals that you need to boost your immune system. It’s soothing and easy to eat when you are suffering from a sore throat or swollen tonsils due to strep throat. Bone broth contains minerals in forms that your body can easily absorb, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon and sulphur. It also contains chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine, the compounds sold as pricey supplements to reduce swelling and joint pain. (10)

Instead of spending hours making bone broth from scratch, use protein powder made from bone broth to help you recover from strep throat quickly. Drink warm bone broth throughout the day.

7. Herbal Tea

Drink herbal tea to soothe your throat, ease pain and treat inflammation of the mucous membranes. Chamomile tea is a great choice because the plant is loaded with antioxidants that help reduce pain, congestion, swelling and redness. (11) Dandelion tea is another one of the strep throat home remedies because it is used to treat infections, ease an upset stomach and boost your immune system.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

Sipping apple cider vinegar is an easy way to treat strep throat naturally. Apple cider vinegar has powerful healing compounds such as acetic acid, which can kill dangerous bacteria while helping the growth of beneficial bacteria. Because acetic acid kills unwanted bacteria when it comes into contact with it, this natural compound practically acts as a natural antibiotic. (12)

What to Do:

9. Gargle with Himalayan Salt

Gargling with pink Himalayan salt water helps to reduce swelling, soothes a sore throat and creates an unpleasant environment for bacteria in your mouth. Salt temporarily increases the pH balance of your mouth, creating an alkaline environment that makes it hard for bacteria to survive. Himalayan salt is known to improve respiratory conditions because it’s an antibacterial agent. It has anti-inflammatory properties and it removes pathogens from the mouth when gargled or swallowed. (13)

10. Try Oil Pulling

Research shows that oil pulling has the power to reduce the presence of strep bacteria in the mouth. Use it as a tool to maintain oral health. (14)

Coconut oil pulling is one of the best ways to remove bacteria from the mouth. It works as an oral detox, sucking up the toxins in your mouth and creating a clean, germ-free environment. To use oil pulling as one of your strep throat home remedies, swish 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in your mouth for at least ten minutes. Then spit out the oil in the trash, rinse your mouth and brush your teeth.

Essential Oils:

11. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is a great essential oil for a sore throat. It reduces swelling in the throat, which is why it’s often used for the treatment of respiratory infections. Because peppermint oil contains menthol, it causes a cooling sensation and a calming effect on the body. (15)

Add 1-2 drops of peppermint oil to a glass or water or to your toothpaste to use it internally. For topical use, apply 1-2 drops to your throat, chest and temples.

12. Lemon Oil

Lemon oil has antibacterial properties and it helps to cleanse toxins from the body. Research shows that lemon oil is able to limit the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. (16) To use lemon essential oil, add 1-2 drops to a glass of cool or warm water, or add it to herbal tea for more flavor.

13. Thyme Oil

Thyme oil supports the immune and respiratory systems, making it one of the strep throat home remedies. A 2011 study published in Medicinal Chemistry tested thyme oil’s response to 120 strains of bacteria taken from patients with infections of oral cavity, respiratory and genitourinary tracts. Results showed strong activity against all clinical strains. It also showed effectiveness to resist antibiotic resistant strains. (17)

You can use thyme oil as a mouthwash by adding 2 drops to water and gargling. Or take a bath with 2 drops of thyme oil added to ease body aches.

To Prevent Spreading the Infection:

14. Avoid Contact

As long as you have strep throat symptoms, don’t sneeze or cough on others in order to stop the bacteria from spreading. Do not share glasses, utensils, plates or food with anyone for two weeks. Use a powerful and natural soap, like castile soap, to wash your dishes and the surfaces in your bathroom and kitchen counter.

15. Wash Your Hands

Be sure to wash your hands throughout the day, especially if you are around other people. Use an antibacterial soap to get rid of any trace of group A strep. One example is this Homemade Hand Soap with castile soap and peppermint oil.

16. Replace Your Toothbrush

Replace your toothbrush when you first show symptoms of strep throat and then again after you are well. This will help you to avoid reinfecting yourself with another group A strep infection.

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Precautions

Get a lab test before you decide to use antibiotics, as they will not help against viral sore throats. Viruses such as influenza and adenovirus cause most sore throats. Also, strep throat symptoms and symptoms of non-strep sore throat are a lot alike.

You should see your doctor if you have trouble swallowing, your throat is blocked by swollen tonsils, or your fever doesn’t go down. Antibiotic treatment should only be used for illnesses that it can treat best; overuse can contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, if you are still sick after nine days of using these home remedies for strep throat, see your doctor about further treatment.

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Final Thoughts

• Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by the group A strep bacteria. It is highly contagious and spreads through close contact.
• Strep throat may lead to scarlet fever, a very serious bacterial infection.
• The conventional treatment for strep throat is antibiotics. Antibiotics will cut the length of the illness by about half a day.
• Strep throat home remedies include supplements that will boost the immune system, foods that will soothe the throat and ease pain, and essential oils that help to kill bacteria.

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