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Q: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex ( Answered 5 out of 5 stars,   5 Comments )
Question  
Subject: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
Category: Health
Asked by: desert_rose-ga
List Price: $10.00
Posted: 14 Sep 2005 03:36 PDT
Expires: 14 Oct 2005 03:36 PDT
Question ID: 567895
Is there a remedy for scratchy throat ? because the sensation is so
strong that at some point it makes me gag, also lozenges only give a
temporary relief and if i take more they make me want to gag.
is there any natural remedies for scratchy throat ? i tried
honey,lemon,and hot drinks with no good results. i just had a cold 48
hours ago and it's starting to get worse, i need a remedy so i can be
able to eat and sleep
Answer  
Subject: Re: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
Answered By: nenna-ga on 14 Sep 2005 07:35 PDT
Rated:5 out of 5 stars
 
Good morning desert_rose and thank you for your question.  I hope this
answer finds you well, or at least better than you have been!

As you very well my know by your current experience, sore throats are
probably one of the most common problems when dealing with a cold (or
allergies), along with the sneezing and coughing.  One of the main
reasons your throat is so sore is because of the postnasal drip (the
mucous drips down the back of your throat.)

Obviously, the best thing you can do for a cold is take an OTC pain
medication (Motrin, to help reduce inflammation of the throat and
reduce pain), get plenty of rest, drink extra fluids, and via advice
from grandma, gargle with warm salt water.  Additionally, warm soaks
or hot baths will add moisture to the throat area and soothe
irritation.  A "cool mist" humidifier will put more moisture in the
air, making sticky, dry, irritated throats feel better. Most sore
throats respond well to added moisture.


"Water down your woes. You want to keep that mucus as thin as
possible," says Alexander C. Chester, M.D., clinical professor of
medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Steaming your nose in a hot shower or sauna, drinking a lot of water
and humidifying the air will lighten the load on your nose and throat,
he says.

Squirt in some salt and soda. Saline sprays or drops will help flush
away excess nasal secretions, says Gailen D. Marshall, Jr., M.D.,
Ph.D., assistant professor and director of the Allergy and Clinical
Immunology Division at the University of Texas Medical School at
Houston. In eight ounces of water, dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of table salt
and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda. Use a nose dropper to squirt about
half of the solution up your nose, he advises."

Source:  Doctor?s Book of Home Remedies II
( http://www.mothernature.com/Library/Bookshelf/Books/48/162.cfm )


Beyond cough drops and salt water, you can try one of the following
homeopathic remedies:

MYRRH:  Myrrh is known for soothing muscles and wounds. It nourishes
mucous membranes with a "cleansing" effects. Combining Myrrh extract
with water makes a great gargle for a scratchy throat.

"Myrrh is an antimicrobial that is soothing to mucous membranes and is
frequently used in vaginal douches. It helps fight infection by
increasing white blood cells that attack foreign microbials. It treats
weak pulse, cold skin and stimulates digestion by increasing peptic
gland activity."

Source:  Thymley Solutions
( http://www.absolutelythepurest.com/herbal/myrrh-extract.html )


"Effects on inflammation and pain - Atta, A.H., Alkofahi, A. (1998)  

Summary:  Myrrh extract (Commiphora molmol) was found to have
significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects when used against
induced, localized acute and
chronic inflammation in rodents. The authors concluded that the study
affirmed the traditional use of Myrrh for these conditions of pain and
inflammation."

Source:  Myrrh References
( http://www.essentics.biz/Esssential%20oil%20references/Myrrh%20references.htm )


= = = = = = = = = = =

CHAMOMILE:  Taken every few hours, Chamomile will ease pain and reduce
inflammation of a sore, red throat. Warm Chamomile tea soothes the
throat and can be purchased at many major grocery stores.  It has an
applelike aroma and flavor (the name chamomile is derived from the
Greek kamai melon, meaning ground apple)

To learn more, please visit:

Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,766,00.html )

= = = = = = = = = = 

SAGE:  Another popular alternative medicine used in the treatment of
sore throats. Sage is beneficial in treating pharyngitis and other
throat pains by reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous
membranes of the mouth and throat.

"To use, prepare a tea with one cup of the dried herb and one cup hot
water. Let it steep for fifteen minutes. Strain out the herb and
sweeten with honey if needed. Store it in the refrigerator and take
one teaspoon every hour as needed. Only use this remedy for a day or
two."

Source:  Stretcher.com ? Home Remedies for Cold and Flu
( http://www.stretcher.com/stories/04/04dec20f.cfm )

= = = = = = = = = = 

GARLIC:  Garlic is a natural antibiotic and can be helpful in the
speeding up of recovery and removal of bacteria, especially if your
sore throat is caused by the flu or bacterial infection. Garlic can be
taken in pill form by all age groups.

"Chop and peel five garlic cloves. Cover with a half a cup of honey.
Mix in a little cayenne pepper or ginger. Let sit for at least an
hour. Take one teaspoonful as needed."

Source:  Stretcher.com ? Home Remedies for Cold and Flu
( http://www.stretcher.com/stories/04/04dec20f.cfm )


To learn more, please visit:

Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,786,00.html )

= = = = = = = = = = 

OAK BARK:  With it?s natural astringent properties, it can help reduce
inflammation and can be gargled.

"Oak bark's powerful anti-inflammatory qualities make it very useful
(in strong tea form) for sore throat and inflamed gums."

"Oak bark contains a relatively large concentration of tannin (8 to
10%). Any plant that has more than 10% tannin can cause
gastrointestinal disturbances in sensitive individuals."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10108,00.html )

= = = = = = = = = = 

MARSHMALLOW LEAF:  This will alleviate irritation in the mouth and
throat. It can be taken in pill form.

"Since ancient times, Europeans have relied on the root of the
marshmallow plant (Althea officinalis) to concoct cough and sore
throat remedies."

"Cooled marshmallow root tea has been used to soothe inflamed skin or
mouth irritations; it can also be used as a gargle."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10042,00.html )

= = = = = = = = = = 

MULLEIN FLOWER:  The Mullen Flower has been used for centuries in
Europe as a symptomatic treatment for sore throats.  Additionally, it
acts as a mild expectorant, and is helpful to those with a cough or
sore throat brought about by viral infection.

"German health authorities, however, do approve of mullein in various
forms (fluid extract, tincture, tea) to help clear congestion due to
colds and coughs, and sipping a tea made with the flowers may well
encourage a productive cough."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,865,00.html )

= = = = = = = = = = 

WHEN TO GO TO THE DOCTOR:  Most sore throat will heal on their own
with added moisture and rest. Some sore throats, however, require
prompt medical attention, especially if the patient is a young child
or older adult. The following symptoms should be checked by a health
care provider:

Breathing difficulty
Fever 102-degrees or above
Bloody sputum
Skin rash
Dark urine
Excessive vomiting
Light headedness
Fainting
Chest pain
Wheezing
Severe headache
Visible lump in mouth or throat
No improvement after 3 days of rest and treatment


For a little bit of humor to lift your spirits, read the following
article, Can Sex Prevent Colds?

( http://www.associatedcontent.com/content.cfm?content_type=article&content_type_id=3210
)

I hope this answers your question.  If you need any further
clarification before rating, please do not hesitate to ask and feel
better soon!

Nenna-GA
Google Researcher

Sources:

Essortment
( http://njnj.essortment.com/sorethroathome_rhav.htm )

All Natural
( http://www.all-natural.com/herbguid.html )

Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/ )

Google Search Terms:

remedy scratchy throat
( ://www.google.com/search?q=remedy+scratchy+throat&hl=en&lr= )

Request for Answer Clarification by desert_rose-ga on 15 Sep 2005 05:30 PDT
Your answer was so helpful, i tried most of the remedies and they
relieved my scratchy throat, but now i developed a dry cough,i took a
cough suppressant and it helped to relieve my cough by lessening the
urge to cough but i still have this tickily sensation deep in my
throat that makes me want to cough, i would really appreciate if you
post a remedy for that.

Clarification of Answer by nenna-ga on 15 Sep 2005 08:05 PDT
Good morning again desert_rose!

I am glad that you were able to cure your sore throat.  Now onto the
next problem ? the dry, hacking, overly annoying cough.  As strange as
this may sound, coughing is a natural protective mechanism designed to
clear bacteria, viruses, dust, and pollen out of the body.  Although
coughing is a necessary and helpful, it can be distressing and very
tiring to you. Continuous, uncontrollable coughing makes sleeping
difficult, and may also cause you to feel achy all over. The chest and
abdominal muscles can be pulled or strained by continual coughing.
Coughing may also cause further irritation to an inflamed respiratory
tract.  Unfortunately, there is no "cure?.

Below I have listed some ways to ease (not cure) the coughing.

PRESCRIPTION:

CODEINE:  This is a narcotic cough suppressant that can only be
prescribed by a physician, typically used for coughing in severe
cases. It "turns off" the part of the brain that controls the coughing
response. Codeine is a powerful drug and can have side effects,
including nausea, sleepiness, and constipation. It can also be highly
addictive.

BENZONATATE (TESSALON) is a prescription cough suppressant that works
by anesthetizing the respiratory tract. Unlike other cough medicines,
it comes in capsule rather than liquid form, and is a safer
alternative to codeine. The capsules should be swallowed whole, never
chewed.

= = = = = = = = =

OVER THE COUNTER:

DEXTROMETHORPHAN:  This is a common cough suppressant found in many
popular over-the-counter medications.  It is usually signified by the
initials DM on the label. It is almost as effective as codeine, but is
nonnarcotic and has few side effects.

GUAIFENESIN:  This is an expectorant found in many over-the-counter
cough formulas. Expectorants are medications that work by increasing
the production of fluids in the respiratory tract, helping to thin and
loosen mucus so that it is easier to cough out. It can cause
drowsiness, so follow label directions carefully.

Obviously, throat lozenges, such as Chloraseptic lozenges, coat and
soothe a sore, irritated throat, however, they only give temporary
relief.

Lozenges with vitamin C are especially good as Vitamin C has
anti-inflammatory properties, combats infection, and is soothing and
healing to an irritated throat.

Additionally, a zinc-based lozenge can improve immune response and
help reduce infection and inflammation.   Caution:  Excessive amounts
of zinc can result in nausea and vomiting.  Be careful not to exceed
the recommended dosage.

= = = = = = = = = =

HOMEOPATHIC/HERBAL REMEDIES


COLTSFOOT:  This helps to clear congestion from the lungs. Make a tea
and drink one dose, three times a day, for two days.

Caution:  Given the risk of cross-sensitivity, don't take coltsfoot if
you are allergic to other plants in the daisy (Compositae) family,
such as chamomile and ragweed or if you are taking a blood
pressure-lowering medication (an antihypertensive).

"Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) may qualify as the world's oldest cough
remedy. For centuries folk healers have used the bright yellow
flowers, roots, and wooly leaves of this daisy family member to
suppress dry coughs and soothe sore throats. In fact, part of the
plant's scientific name (Tussilago) stems from the Latin word for
"cough." In eighteenth-century France, for instance, shop owners
painted an image of the plant on their signs to let passersby know
that they sold healing herbs. It has also been an important part of
Chinese folk medicine for hundreds of years."

"Specifically, coltsfoot may help to reduce the urge to cough and
soothe a sore throat. Coltsfoot works as an expectorant, stimulating
the tiny hairs (cilia) that propel mucus out of air passages. This
action makes a cough what is called "more productive." The most
effective use for coltsfoot, however, is for a dry (nonproductive)
cough, because the herb helps coat and soothe the throat, making it
less vulnerable to irritation."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10154,00.html )

To make a tea, add 8 ounces of hot (but not boiling) water to 2
teaspoons of crushed dried leaves.

     * * * * * 

LICORICE TEA:  This has antibacterial properties, soothes the throat
and respiratory tract, and tastes sweet. For a cough, licorice works
best when taken warm.   A combination of coltsfoot and licorice can
also be used.   Caution:  Licorice should not be used if you have high
blood pressure.

The herb's key therapeutic compound, glycyrrhizin, is found in the
rhizome (or underground stem) of this tall purple-flowered shrub.

"Specifically, licorice with glycyrrhizin may help to control
respiratory problems and sore throat. Licorice eases congestion and
coughing by helping to loosen and thin mucus in airways; this makes a
cough more "productive," bringing up phlegm and other mucus bits.
Licorice also helps to relax bronchial spasms. The herb also soothes
soreness in the throat and fights viruses that cause respiratory
illnesses and an overproduction of mucus."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,801,00.html


To make the tea, pour 8 ounces of very hot (but not boiling) water
over 2 teaspoons of the herb, steep for 10 minutes, and then strain.

)

     * * * * * 

LUNGWORT is high in vitamin C, has astringent properties, and is known
for its ability to help clear a cough.

     * * * * * 

MARSHMALLOW ROOT:  Soothing to the throat and respiratory tract. Make
a tea and give your child one dose, three times daily, for two days.  
Cooled marshmallow root tea has been used to soothe inflamed skin or
mouth irritations; it can also be used as a gargle.  Caution: 
Marshmallow may delay the absorption of other drugs when taken at the
same time.

"To soothe a sore throat and suppress a cough, try sipping a tea made
with the roots or leaves of marshmallow for quelling a sore throat or
dry, irritating cough?.. Few herbal remedies have been used for as
many centuries--with such great effectiveness--as marshmallow for
irritated throat and cough."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10042,00.html )

To make the tea, add 1 teaspoon of liquid extract to 1 cup (8 ounces)
of very warm water 3 times a day.


     * * * * * 

PEPPERMINT OIL:  Recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as an
effective cough suppressant.  Menthol lozenges contain a purified and
refined form of peppermint oil.

Peppermint helps clear congestion and cough related to colds and
allergies by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages.  Drinking
peppermint tea--and inhaling the menthol--may also ease breathing.  
Caution:  Do not take peppermint oil capsules if you are on felodipine
for high blood pressure or if you are taking the cholesterol-lowering
drug simvastatin. Peppermint oil may increase the drug's effectiveness
and side effects.

To brew peppermint tea, use 1 or 2 teaspoons of dried peppermint
leaves for each 8 ounces of water. Pour very hot (not boiling) water
over the leaves, cover the cup (to prevent the volatile oil from being
released) and allow the mixture to steep for 10 minutes, then strain.


     * * * * * 

MULLEIN TEA: This is a very effective herb known to be highly
beneficial to the throat and lungs. It is particularly good in the
early stages of a cough, before an expectorant is needed.   Caution: 
the plant's seeds are toxic, however, its leaves, roots, and flowers
appear to pose no health risk.

"German health authorities, however, do approve of mullein in various
forms (fluid extract, tincture, tea) to help clear congestion due to
colds and coughs, and sipping a tea made with the flowers may well
encourage a productive cough."

Source:  Whole Health M.D.
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,865,00.html )

     * * * * * 

OSHA ROOT:  Highly aromatic and helps to clear the lungs. It is
especially good for a dry cough. Drink in tea form three times a day,
for three to four days.

     * * * * * 

SAGE AND THYME:  A tea made from a combination of these herbs helps to
clear mucus out of the lungs.

As stated above,  prepare a tea with one cup of [each of] the dried
herb(s) and one cup hot water. Let it steep for fifteen minutes.
Strain out the herb and sweeten with honey if needed. Store it in the
refrigerator and take one teaspoon every hour as needed. Only use this
remedy for a day or two.

     * * * * * 

SLIPPERY ELM BARK makes a soothing lozenge or tea. 

Throat lozenges containing Slippery elm are particularly effective for
easing a cough and soothing a sore throat by coating the area and
reducing irritation. You can find the lozenges at most health-food
stores.

Warm slippery elm bark tea works for cough and sore throat too, as
does a liquid extract.

To make the tea, add 1 tablespoon of dried herb or 1 tablespoon of
liquid extract to a cup (8 ounces) of hot (not boiling) water.

"Long recognized by health authorities in the United States as an
effective medicine, slippery elm bark presently has the approval of
the Food and Drug Administration as a nonprescription demulcent
(soothing agent) that can be taken internally."

Source:  Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10056,00.html )

     * * * * * 

WILD CHERRY BARK:  Used by Native Americans, wild cherry bark is a
flavorful and effective herb, in a tea or syrup for coughs, colds, and
bronchitis.   Caution: Wild cherry bark can be toxic in large amounts.
It should not be taken by children under four, nor by pregnant women.

     * * * * * 

HERBAL RUB:  Take 4 tablespoons of olive oil and add 2 drops of one or
all of the following: eucalyptus, sage, rosemary, and peppermint oil.
To ease your coughing and soothe your respiratory tract, rub this
mixture onto your chest.

     * * * * * 

HERBAL BATH:  Prepare an herbal bath by putting a few drops of
eucalyptus, sage, or thyme oil into a warm bath. Breathing in the
herbal vapors will soothe an irritated throat.

     * * * * * 

I hope this answers your question.  If you need any further
clarification before rating, please do not hesitate to ask!

Nenna-GA
Google Researcher


Sources:

Health World
( http://www.healthy.net/scr/Article.asp?Id=247 )

Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com )

Google Search Terms:

Homeopathic cough suppressant
( ://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=homeopathic+cough+suppressant )
desert_rose-ga rated this answer:5 out of 5 stars
Your answers helped to relieve my sore throat, i am now able to eat
and sleep which i hadn't been to do in the past 2 days, Thank you!

Comments  
Subject: Re: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
From: angy-ga on 14 Sep 2005 04:15 PDT
 
My grandma used to say a cold to three days to come, was here three
days, and took three days to go, and it's always seemed about right.

Echinacea taken at the very first signs seems to cut the symptoms
down, and hot whisky is fun and probably kills a few germs.
Subject: Re: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
From: desert_rose-ga on 14 Sep 2005 04:39 PDT
 
My mother gave me an ointment for colds relief (vicks vaporub) to
apply on my neck and chest and wrap my neck with a hot towel and sit
in a hot room to sweat, i tried it with a lozenge in my mouth..and i
have to be honest.. it seems to help! i just hope it's not temporary.
any more suggestions would be appreciated.
Subject: Re: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
From: vakulgarg-ga on 14 Sep 2005 06:29 PDT
 
Grind some big black cardamom seeds (after taking the peel off) with
few black peppers (optional) in a mortar. The cardamom seeds should
give out a strong smell. Seeds should not be too much dry otherwise
they don't help. Now mix honey in it so as to make a paste. Have one
spoon of this paste 3-4 times a day. You need to take it with patience
so as it gets down slow in your throat.

I have tried it number of times and its the best for me.
Subject: Re: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
From: cribcage-ga on 14 Sep 2005 08:17 PDT
 
Eucalyptus oil. Squirt a few drops onto the floor to permeate the
room; or put a droplet on the back of each hand behind your thumb, rub
them together, hold near your nose and inhale.
Subject: Re: remedies for cold,scratchy throat and gag reflex
From: nenna-ga on 16 Sep 2005 06:20 PDT
 
D.R.  ? Thank you very much for the generous rating.  I am so happy
that you are able to sleep and eat now.  Though it's been a long time
since I?ve had a horrible cold *knock on wood*, I do remember the
feeling.  Good luck and take care!

Nenna-GA

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