Question: I am a school teacher and keep getting laryngitis. What do you suggest?
Answer: Unfortunately, it is probably an occupational hazard with your job.
The best way to get your voice back is to just be quiet — don't even whisper because, funnily enough, that can be just as much of a strain on your vocal cords as a shout can.
You can speed recovery by drinking at least eight glasses of lukewarm water a day; fluid keeps your larynx moist, which is essential for curing laryngitis.
Inhaling steam is also helpful. Fill a bowl or sink with boiling water and add 4-6 drops of an anti-inflammatory essential oil, such as chamomile or lavender. Tent your head with a towel and lean over the steam, inhaling deeply.
You could also try a tea made from the herb horehound, which is a member of the mint family, and has been traditionally used to soothe coughs.
Or, sip warm water with 2 teaspoons of slippery elm powder — this herb is best known for its benefits to the digestive system, but it also has the effect of creating a gel-like mucilage which leaves a protective coating on the throat as it slips down.
Remind yourself to always breathe through your nose, not your mouth, which exposes your larynx to dry air.
Don't smoke and avoid smoky environments, as even side-stream or second-hand smoke from another person's cigarette can cause enough dehydration and pollution to affect your vocal cords.
If you are taking any medications, it is worth checking with your doctor to see whether they might be the cause — common drugs for blood pressure and hay fever can both cause hoarseness and a dry, sore throat and nasal passages.
Your say: Do you have any home remedies for laryngitis?
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