Once the person has a runny nose, the following cold symptoms are sore throat and dry cough. The upper pharyngeal mucosa forms a protective barrier to protect the respiratory system and the body from viral infections, but when the immune system is weakened, the mechanism does not work properly. Viral dry cough is usually accompanied by sore throat or itchy throat caused by irritation of the throat mucosa.
Various phytoprotective agents help relieve and alleviate the symptoms of cold, such as echinacea strengthening the body's natural defenses. Sprays of various herbal formulas containing oils or tinctures of these herbs are used to relieve inflammation of the throat. There are many options, but the most popular are calendula, chamomile, lime, elderflower, sage, eucalyptus, yarrow, as well as peppermint and anise essential oils – these are rinses for pharyngitis, laryngitis, sore throat, stomatitis, stomatitis, prevention of bleeding. It is best to rinse your throat at least twice a day and before meals. However, rinsing your throat with soda or salt solutions is a controversial approach.
The respiratory absorption of eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree and other essential oils by vapor inhalation helps prevent viral infections in colds, upper respiratory tract and oral cavity inflammation by having moisturizing, soothing and disinfectant effects.
In addition to respiratory health, it is advisable to take herbal teas orally too. Rose hip and elderflower teas are the most suitable for the prevention of colds. Mucosal inflammation is alleviated by anise tea in combination with thyme and yarrow herbs, althea root, and rosemary leaf drugs. In case of severe neck pain, drink warm Iceland moss, plantain, calendula or lime blossom tea, which is also useful for rinsing. Throat irritation is reduced by lozenges or oil-based sprays. Lozenges and caramels are another form of drug with antiseptic properties that reduce swelling and inflammation by altering the body's response to pain; these are used to prevent hoarseness, irritation or tingling in the throat and excessive throat discomfort. They are suitable for the prevention and early treatment of mild oral and throat infections. The lozenges are available with peppermint, eucalyptus, anise, sage essential oils, with or without anesthetics or analgesics. The mechanism of action takes place when the tablets dissolve and a complex mixture is formed to create a protective film over the inflamed mucous membranes. Other ingredients provide saliva, helping to disseminate the dissolved complex in the mouth and throat and maintain moisture in the mucous membranes. It is recommended to take these several times a day, usually after meals.
Prolonged sore throat requires moisturizing of the mucous membrane and repairing of damaged cells; this action is supported by the use of St. John's wort oil, while chamomile, sage and mint have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
Dr.biol. Dailonis Pakalns, pharmacist
