Laryngitis Treatment

What is Laryngitis?

Laryngitis is an acute inflammation of the larynx, or voice box. It is normally associated with a common cold or overuse of your voice. It is characterized by swelling, hoarseness, pain, dryness in the throat, coughing, and inability to speak above a whisper, if at all.

It is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection, either restricted to the larynx or part of a more general infection of the upper respiratory tract. Where no clear-cut cause is found, such as infection or overuse, skilled diagnosis is required.

Treatment of Laryngitis

Hence, How to Treat Laryngitis? The lymphatic system should be the focus of tonic support. But if there is a pattern of recurrent infection, attention must also be given to strengthening the immune system.

Actions Indicated

• Demulcents will soothe the mucous lining and ease discomfort.
• Anti-inflammatories will reduce the immediate cause of distress.
• Antimicrobials are indicated if there is a causal microorganism involved. However, they are not indicated if inflammation is due to some other cause.
• Astringents are often effective as a local gargle, especially if the problem was precipitated by overuse of the vocal cords.
• Bitters have a toning and stimulating effect on the mucosal lining.

Specific Remedies

The various herbal traditions of the world abound with herbs effective for conditions of the mouth, larynx, and pharynx. Osha (Ligusticum porteri) is an excellent specific. A small piece of the root can be chewed to ameliorate symptoms and promote the body's immune response.

In Europe, gargling with astringent herbs is the traditional approach. They should not be drunk, as they will probably also promote constipation—an unnecessary and unfortunate complication.

Astringent Herbs Relevant to Laryngitis

• Achillea millefolium (yarrow)
• Geranium, maculatum (cranesbill)
• Polygonum bistortum (bistort root)
• Potentilla to'rmentosa (tormentil)
• Quercus spp. (oak bark)
• Rubus idaeus (raspberry leaf)
• R. villosus (blackberry leaf)
• Salvia officinalis var. rubia (red sage)
• Sambucus nigra (black elder flower)

A Prescription for Laryngitis

• Echinacea spp. 2 parts
• Ligusticum porteri 2 parts
• Hydrastis canadensis 1 part

Dosage: up to 1 ml of tincture every hour

A Gargle for Laryngitis

• Salvia officinalis var. rubia 1 part
• Matricaria recutita 1 part

Make a strong infusion with dried herbs. Gargle often until symptoms subside.

Gargle II for Laryngitis

• Malva neglecta or Malva sylvestris

Infuse Malva flowers and leaves in lukewarm water overnight to ensure optimum extraction of mucilage. Gargle as needed.

Self Care Methods:

• You need to avoid whispering
• You need to avoid decongestants
• You need to moisten your throat
• You need to take plenty of water or fluids to prevent dehydration
• You need to give rest your voice
• You need to breathe moist air