Laryngitis is an inflammation of our voice box. The term inflammation does not mean infection. It is the response of our body’s immune system to the damaged caused by the pathogens to the larynx. In other words, the inflammation is itself a healing process. Depending on the cause, this healing process can either be acute or chronic in nature. In most of the cases, this condition of the voice box can be treated at home using certain simple remedies.
Home Remedies for Laryngitis
Vinegar: Gargling with equal amounts of water and weak acid like vinegar kills the pathogens in the voice box and provides relief.
Lemon: It is a natural acidic fruit. Take a bowl of lemon juice and add salt to it. Now add one teaspoon of this preparation in one glass of warm water. Use this solution for gargling three to four times a day to get relief from hoarseness.
Ginger: A well known home remedy to treat throat infections is ginger. Cut small pieces of ginger and put them in a bowl of boiling water. Allow the preparation to cool and take it at regular intervals for three to five times a day.
Garlic: It contains a natural component called allicin which is potent enough to kill the infection causing bacteria and virus. Take two fresh cloves of garlic and suck them from time to time all along the day. However, you need to bear with the accompanying bad breath.
Indian Bay Leaf: A research study carried out at the Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India in September 2011 proved the anti-inflammatory property of the Indian bay leaf. In healing steam vapor of this leaf by draping a towel over your head for 10 -15 minutes can be very beneficial.
Aloe Vera: One ounce of aloe vera juice can be added to two ounce of water and consumed with regular breaks. The preparation eases the process of digestion and reduces acid reflux which is one of the main causes of Laryngitis.
Self-Help Methods for Laryngitis
- When this condition is caused by viral influenza or common cold, simple rest of the voice box can provide relief to the tissues of the larynx and cure it. Unless it is essential to communicate, one can remain silent or use a microphone
- Whispering should be avoided as such an action strains the voice cord even more than the normal speech does
- Inhaling moist air can provide relief. Humidifiers can keep the air in the room at home or at office moist enough
- Consumption of alcohol or coffee should be avoided to prevent dehydration. Water should be consumed from time to time instead
- Gargling with salt water at least twice a day is a tried and test self-cure method of laryngitis. Take a glass of warm water and add half teaspoon of salt in it to begin gargling
- Medications to treat blood pressure and allergy cause dry mouth. Though the intake of these drugs is necessary, consulting the family doctor on their dosage can be beneficial
- Stay away from dust and pollution as they can cause coughing and strain the vocal cords
Causes Of Laryngitis
- People who sing a lot
- People who speaks loudly
- People who smoke
- People who scream
- People who are infected
Symptoms Of Laryngitis
- Change in the voice
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
Prevention Of Laryngitis
- Drink warm liquids
- Avoid smoking and tobacco
- Do not speak loudly
- Wash your hand regularly. Keep yourself clean
Laryngitis Home Cures methods help but it is always better to consult a doctor if the problem s severe.