By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Strep Throat
Herbal tinctures for strep throat are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, which have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of strep throat.
These natural remedies help soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and combat infection. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with strep throat include Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Slippery Elm.
By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can experience faster recovery times, reduced fever, and less discomfort, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for strep throat, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Salvia officinalis
- 4. Thymus vulgaris
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Phytolacca americana
- 7. Echinacea purpurea
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Baptisia tinctoria
- 10. Solidago virgaurea
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for strep throat?
- What ailments similar to strep throat are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with strep throat because of its unique composition.
The tincture contains high concentrations of triterpenoid saponins, particularly 2alpha-hydroxy Ursolic acid, which exhibits antibacterial properties that can help combat Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for strep throat.
Additionally, coneflower's anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce swelling and pain associated with the infection, while its antimicrobial properties work to eliminate the underlying cause of the sore throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside, have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help combat strep throat infections caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: These compounds, including echinacein, have been found to possess immunomodulatory effects, which can help boost the body's immune response to fight off strep throat infections and reduce their severity.
- Alkylamides: These compounds, such as cis- and trans-11-cis-12-isocloven-7-yl-acetate, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the pain, swelling, and discomfort associated with strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms of strep throat.
- Flowers: They contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making them effective against strep throat-causing bacteria.
- Leaves: They are used for their ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, providing relief from the symptoms of strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for strep throat.
- Harvest 2-3 pounds of echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when they are fully ripe.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content to 10%.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and use a 1:2 ratio of root material to 80% ethanol or 90% glycerin.
- Steep the chopped root material in the solvent for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place to allow for extraction.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids before bottling the final product.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with strep throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe a sore throat and reduce swelling.
The tincture's glycyrrhizin content has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, the causative agent of strep throat. Additionally, licorice root's antimicrobial properties help combat secondary infections that can occur during the course of strep throat.
By addressing both inflammation and bacterial growth, herbal licorice tinctures can provide relief from soreness, pain, and discomfort associated with strep throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with strep throat.
- Saponins: Saponins have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the bacterial infection (group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus) that causes strep throat.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which can help alleviate the symptoms of strep throat, such as sore throat and fever.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Utilized for their expectorant properties to help relieve coughs and facilitate the removal of mucus from the throat.
- Flowers: Employed for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and combat infection in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for strep throat.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried root of glycyrrhiza glabra for tincture making.
- Combine the dried root with 50% ethanol 450ml in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
- Transfer the resulting liquid to dark glass bottles and label them for storage.
3. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with strep throat because it has antibacterial properties that can help combat the infection.
The essential oils in sage, such as thujone and camphor, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria that causes strep throat. Additionally, sage tincture's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat, providing relief from soreness and pain.
By using a herbal remedy like sage tincture, individuals may be able to alleviate symptoms and recover more quickly from a strep throat infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds help combat strep throat by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria.
- Salvianolic acid a: This phenolic acid compound exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate strep throat symptoms by reducing bacterial load and inflammation in the throat.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene with potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, carnosic acid can help combat strep throat by inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing inflammation in the throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Leaves: They contain antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections, such as strep throat.
- Roots: They contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling associated with strep throat.
- Stems: They may contain some antimicrobial properties that can aid in the treatment of strep throat, although their effectiveness is less documented compared to the leaves and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for strep throat.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom and dry.
- Chop the dried salvia officinalis material into small pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped salvia with 3 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the salvia mixture in the vodka for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid from the salvia mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
4. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme tinctures helps with strep throat because of its antimicrobial properties, specifically targeting the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes.
The essential oil thymol in thyme has been shown to inhibit the growth and adhesion of S. pyogenes, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms such as sore throats and swollen lymph nodes. Thyme tinctures can also help boost the immune system, promoting a faster recovery from strep throat infections.
By targeting the underlying cause and supporting overall health, thyme tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for relieving strep throat discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic compound that exhibits antimicrobial and antiseptic properties, helping to combat the bacterial infection that causes strep throat.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a monoterpenic phenol that shows potent antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pyogenes, the primary bacteria responsible for strep throat.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat the underlying infection in strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Leaves: They contain thymol, which has antimicrobial properties that help combat strep throat infections.
- Flowers: They possess antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing throat inflammation and fighting bacterial infections.
- Stems: They also contain thymol, which contributes to their antimicrobial properties and can help alleviate strep throat symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for strep throat.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom for 2 weeks.
- Dry the harvested thymus vulgaris material in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried thymus vulgaris into small pieces and measure out a 1:2 ratio of plant material to 80% vodka.
- Combine the chopped thymus vulgaris with the measured vodka in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking it daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with strep throat because it possesses antimicrobial properties that effectively combat bacterial infections, such as streptococcus.
The tincture's flavonoids and sesquiterpenes have been shown to inhibit the growth of strep bacteria, reducing the severity of symptoms like sore throats, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. Additionally, pot marigold's anti-inflammatory compounds help soothe irritated mucous membranes, promoting healing and relieving discomfort.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate strep throat symptoms without relying on antibiotics.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Calendulin: This triterpenoid saponin helps to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections, making it effective in alleviating strep throat symptoms.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe the throat and combat the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria that cause strep throat.
- Naringenin: This flavanone phenolic compound has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help to inhibit the growth of the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria and reduce the severity of strep throat symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Flowers: Their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and protect the throat from infection.
- Leaves: They contain antimicrobial compounds that aid in reducing the severity of strep throat symptoms.
- Roots: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, the roots help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for strep throat.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning when they are dry and free of moisture.
- Clean and dry the flowers thoroughly to prevent contamination and ensure quality.
- Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking it daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
6. Phytolacca americana
Pokeweed tinctures helps with strep throat because of its powerful antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat the bacterial infection causing the illness.
The tannins and flavonoids present in pokeweed help to reduce inflammation and soothe the sore throat, while its antibacterial compounds target and eliminate the streptococcus pyogenes bacteria responsible for the infection.
By addressing both the underlying cause and symptoms of strep throat, pokeweed tinctures can provide natural relief from the discomfort and speed up the healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Phytolacca americana tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Saponins: Saponins in Phytolacca americana tinctures may help reduce inflammation and soothe sore throats by creating a protective barrier against bacterial invasion.
- Phenolics: Phenolics present in Phytolacca americana tinctures have antimicrobial properties that may help combat Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for strep throat.
- Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid found in Phytolacca americana, has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties that may help reduce the severity of strep throat symptoms and promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pokeweed used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain high levels of alkaloids, which are thought to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat strep throat.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a high concentration of phytolaccatoxin, a compound with reported antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate strep throat symptoms.
- Stems: The stems are used because they contain phytolaccin, a compound that has been shown to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pokeweed for strep throat.
- Harvest 100g of fresh roots and 100g of fresh leaves of phytolacca americana early in the morning.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and combine with the chopped leaves in a clean glass jar.
- Fill the jar with 75% 80-proof vodka and 25% distilled water to cover the plant material completely.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.
7. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower tinctures helps with strep throat because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which allow it to target the bacteria that cause this common infection.
The tincture's active compound, echinacea, has been shown to inhibit the growth and replication of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacterium responsible for strep throat.
By attacking the root cause of the infection, purple coneflower tinctures can help alleviate symptoms such as sore throats, swollen lymph nodes, and fever, reducing the duration and severity of the illness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside and echinulin, have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation associated with strep throat.
- Chlorogenic acid: A phenolic compound found in Echinacea purpurea, chlorogenic acid exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the throat and reduce the severity of strep throat symptoms.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and protect against bacterial infections, ultimately supporting the body's natural defenses against strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of echinacosides, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat strep throat.
- Leaves: The leaves contain a high amount of alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the severity of strep throat symptoms.
- Flowers: The flowers are also used due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in the recovery from strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for strep throat.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh roots of echinacea purpurea and chop them into smaller pieces using scissors.
- Combine the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark cabinet for 4 to 6 weeks to allow infusion.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
- Label the bottle with the date and contents and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with strep throat because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The dandelion root extract in the tincture has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for causing strep throat.
Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it a natural and effective remedy to alleviate symptoms such as soreness and difficulty swallowing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity of sore throats and combat bacterial infections like strep throat.
- Lignans: Lignans in dandelion tinctures have antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and combat the oxidative stress caused by strep throat, promoting faster recovery.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat strep throat by reducing the severity of symptoms and fighting the underlying bacterial infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion leaves, are commonly used in tinctures for strep throat due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help support the immune system and reduce inflammation, making them a popular choice for tinctures targeting strep throat.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used in tinctures for strep throat due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for strep throat.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in late spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency.
- Chop the roots and leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or a plant cutter.
- Combine 1 part taraxacum officinale plant material with 2 parts 95% grain alcohol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
9. Baptisia tinctoria
Wild indigo tinctures helps with strep throat because it contains a powerful antibacterial compound called berberine, which has been shown to effectively combat Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria that cause strep throat.
The tincture's antimicrobial properties help to reduce the severity of symptoms such as sore throats, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, while also promoting healing and reducing the risk of complications like scarlet fever or rheumatic fever.
Additionally, wild indigo tinctures may help to boost the immune system and support overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Baptisia tinctoria tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Isoquinoline alkaloids: Isoquinoline alkaloids in Baptisia tinctoria have antimicrobial properties that help combat Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria causing strep throat.
- Baptifolin and other flavonoids: Baptifolin and other flavonoids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which help reduce inflammation and fight off the viral component of strep throat.
- Baptigenin: Baptigenin, a lignan, has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to the plant's ability to combat strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild indigo used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Roots: They are rich in isoflavones and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate strep throat symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves from Baptisia tinctoria contain alkaloids, such as baptifoline, that have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat strep throat-causing bacteria.
- Buds: Buds are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, that can help reduce inflammation and fight off infections associated with strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild indigo for strep throat.
- Gather 1 part of dried baptisia tinctoria root and 2 parts of vegetable glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the ingredients in the jar and seal it tightly to prevent exposure to air.
- Place the jar in a cool dark location for at least 2 weeks to allow extraction to take place.
- Shake the jar every day for 14 days to ensure all particles are well combined.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
10. Solidago virgaurea
Goldenrod tinctures helps with strep throat because of its antimicrobial properties, which allow it to combat bacterial infections like streptococcus.
The herbal extract has been traditionally used for centuries to soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation. When taken as a tincture, the bioactive compounds in goldenrod work to inhibit the growth of bacteria, reducing the severity of symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, and painful swallowing.
Additionally, goldenrod's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and swelling in the throat, providing quick relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea tinctures that help with strep throat.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Solidago virgaurea tinctures may help combat strep throat by exhibiting potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing the severity of infection and inflammation.
- Tannins: Tannins in the tincture may help soothe strep throat by reducing inflammation, inhibiting the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, and promoting a dry, protective environment that prevents bacterial overgrowth.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Solidago virgaurea tinctures may help alleviate strep throat symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, which can aid in reducing throat irritation and promoting a healthy recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make tinctures for strep throat.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, which may help combat bacterial infections like strep throat.
- Leaves: Contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, potentially soothing sore throats and reducing inflammation.
- Flowers: Have been traditionally used to treat various respiratory issues, including strep throat, due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for strep throat.
- Harvest 1 part of dried solidago virgaurea roots and flowers in early morning to preserve their potency.
- Combine 1 part of the harvested plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the infusion to mature slowly.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the solids completely.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for strep throat?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with strep throat is Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Slippery Elm.
Echinacea stimulates the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of the infection. Goldenseal's berberine helps to combat bacterial growth, while Slippery Elm soothes the irritated throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Combine these tinctures in a ratio of 2:1:1, taking 20-30 drops, 3-4 times a day, with water or a carrier oil, to alleviate symptoms and support the body's natural healing process.
What ailments similar to strep throat are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to strep throat that are treated with herbal tinctures are respiratory infections such as tonsillitis, quinsy, and laryngitis.
Herbalists often use tinctures made from antimicrobial herbs like goldenseal, echinacea, and yarrow to combat infection and reduce inflammation. Other herbs like sage, peppermint, and licorice root may be used to soothe a sore throat and alleviate symptoms like coughing and hoarseness.
These herbal remedies can provide natural relief from the discomfort and pain associated with strep throat-like conditions.