As winter comes and temperatures sink, the throat becomes one of the first parts of the body to be affected. Discover how to identify what is affecting you, how to protect your throat and what plants can help you take care of it this winter.
Hoarseness, itchiness and pain when
swallowing... The cold is here and it increases the incidence of throat
affections. It is one of the most common consultations at the doctor’s during
these months. Although cold itself is not the direct cause of throat
infections, it does help creating the perfect scenario for viruses to survive.
Viruses are precisely the true cause of these infections.
In addition, cold wind, which is dryer than
usual, dries mucosae. The latter are the membranes that cover the respiratory
tract and catch the majority of germs. Also, during winter, we spend more time
in closed, less ventilated spaces, with heating, and where a lot of people is
concentrated. All of this makes those places more probably “contaminated”.
What is it?
- Pharyngitis: Pain, throat dryness and difficulty when
swallowing. More frequent and usually of viral origin.
- Tonsilitis: Red and swollen tonsils, with black spots. Can be
bacterial or viral.
- Laryngitis: Aphonia or, even, voice loss. Caused by bacteria,
virus, efforts or smoke.
Tips to protect your throat:
- Stay hydrated: drink water frequently, better if it’s at room
temperature. Also, you can have infusions, teas and soups.
- Breath through the nose: it is a natural filter that moistures
and heats the air before it arrives to the throat.
- Use humidifiers: you can also put a bowl of water near
radiators.
- Wrap yourself up and warm up: a scarf, a kerchief or
turtlenecks will protect you from abrupt temperature changes.
- Daily ventilation: with five minutes daily is enough, but key
to renew the air.
Take note of these plants:
If, despite everything, your throat still
troubles you, you can always seek some help in natural phytotherapy.
- MARSHMALLOW: contains
mucilage, vegetable substances that, when mixed with water, create layer
to protect and soothe the irritated mucosae of the throat. Furthermore, it
has expectorant properties.
- ECHINACEA: thanks to its
immunostimulant properties. A perfect ally to become more resistant to
different respiratory affections, reducing the frequency.
- AGRIMONY: traditionally used
in case of inflammation and throat pain, thanks to its richness in
tannins. People who force their voice frequently like singers or teachers,
use it.
- SAGE: the active principles of
this aromatic plant are mainly essential oils, hydroxycinnamic acid
derivatives, phenolic diterpenes, flavonoids, sterols and biter
principles; all of which support the antibacterial, antifungal and
antiviral actions.
- THYME: has antimicrobial,
antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immune modulating properties, thanks to
its active compounds like carvacrol and thymol. The essential oil of
leaves is a powerful antiseptic.
In addition to plants, propolis can
also be helpful, since it has antiviral and antibacterial activity, and also
acts as a mouth antiseptic. Regarding vitamins and minerals, zinc and
vitamin C are a must. Both are antioxidant and contribute to the normal
functioning of the immune system.
A soothing cup
Another option to soothe throat irritation
are infusions and teas. Drinking plenty of fluids is important to keep
the throat hydrated. And a good infusion or herbal tea works perfectly, since
it hydrates and provides the plant’s benefits. You can choose from a wide
range: thyme, sage, or a combination of, for example, eucalyptus, mullein or
marshmallow, among others. Thanks to its emollient action, they contribute to
keep respiratory mucosae and, thanks to their soothing effect, they’ll help you
alleviate irritation.
Furthermore, you can add some lemon or
honey to your infusion. Both ingredients will help you soothe throat troubles.
