IMPORTANT
Unless otherwise stated on the package, most supplements and herbal remedies aren’t suitable for children under 12.
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Laryngitis

What you need to know:

Any changes in the quality of the voice which don’t resolve within a week or two must be seen by your doctor. But don’t panic every time your child loses their voice with a cold or get hoarse with laryngitis. Herbs, supplements and natural therapies can all help.

The most useful Herbs:

The most effective herbs to use as a gargle are:
  • Sage
  • Lady’s mantle
  • Rosemary
  • Thyme
  • Echinacea
Use 3 tspns per cup of boiling water, cover, stand for 10 mins, strain and use as hot as comfortable. Repeat every hour.

Essential oils used externally or in a fragrancer:
  • Myrrh
  • Sandalwood
  • Tea tree - this herb can also be used as a gargle (3 drops to a glass of sweetened hot water)

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

Nutritional changes can also help, but as with many common ailments, you should first turn to kitchen medicine. Give the child lots of water - at least six large glasses a day.

Make a drink of hot water, a dessertspoon of pasteurised honey and the juice of half a lemon and sip slowly. Take it four times a day.

Fresh pineapple and pineapple juice contain healing enzymes and other tropical fruit like mangoes and paw-paws and guavas are particularly beneficial.

Other useful advice:

If you have repeated bouts of laryngitis, see a naturopath for long-term nutritional advice. Children over 6 should also be given chewing gum with xylitol - look on the labels - which helps kill the bugs. You can also get teething gels and toothpaste containing xylitol for younger children.

Homoeopathy

Homoeopathic remedies include Belladonna, Lachesis, Phytolacca, Causticum.

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The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.