By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Throat Irritation
Herbal creams for throat irritation are topical ointments made from natural herbs that provide soothing relief from throat inflammation and discomfort.
These creams typically contain ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and eucalyptus, which help to reduce swelling and ease coughing. Examples include Throat Coat and Soothing Throat Cream, which have been shown to improve sleep quality and enable individuals to return to normal activities with reduced discomfort.
This natural relief can greatly enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for throat irritation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Thymus vulgaris
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Calendula officinalis
- 8. Salvia officinalis
- 9. Foeniculum vulgare
- 10. Marrubium vulgare
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for throat irritation?
- What ailments similar to throat irritation are treated with herbal creams?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin, help to reduce swelling and calm the mucous membranes in the throat. This leads to a significant reduction in discomfort and inflammation associated with sore throats, making it an effective remedy for vocal strain, coughs, and other throat irritations.
The cream provides quick relief, allowing the user to breathe and speak more comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with throat irritation.
- Glycyrrhizin: It helps to soothe and reduce inflammation in the throat by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Licopyranocoumarin: It has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that help to combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause throat irritation, and also protect the mucous membranes from oxidative damage.
- Isoliquiritigenin: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce swelling and pain in the throat, and also protect the mucous membranes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps soothe and calm irritated throats.
- Roots: Contain flavonoids and saponins, which have antimicrobial and antiviral effects, reducing the risk of infection and inflammation in the throat.
- Roots: High in mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes of the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for throat irritation.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root with a rich brown color and earthy smell in 2 hours.
- Grind the harvested glycyrrhiza glabra root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle in 30 minutes.
- Mix 100 grams of coconut oil with 50 grams of shea butter and 20 grams of the powdered glycyrrhiza glabra root in 10 minutes.
- Heat the mixture from step 3 in a double boiler at 60-70 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to a storage container in 2 hours.
2. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol in peppermint creams relaxes the muscles in the throat, reducing swelling and discomfort. Its cooling sensation also helps to numb the area, providing quick relief from pain and itchiness. Additionally, peppermint creams have natural antibacterial properties that can help to combat infections and promote healing, making them a popular remedy for soothing a sore throat.
This natural remedy provides effective relief from throat irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with throat irritation.
- Menthol: Helps with throat irritation by providing a cooling effect, which can numb the pain and reduce inflammation in the throat.
- Menthone: Contributes to the anti-inflammatory and anesthetic properties of the cream, allowing it to soothe and calm irritated throat tissues.
- Limonene: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help combat infection and reduce inflammation in the throat, thereby alleviating irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are most commonly used to make creams for throat irritation due to their high menthol content, which provides relief from inflammation and congestion.
- Leaves: The leaves also contain menthone, a compound that helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and providing temporary relief from respiratory issues.
- Leaves: The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of mentha leaves help to prevent the growth of pathogens in the throat, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for throat irritation.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh leaves of mentha x piperita from a healthy plant in the morning.
- Steam distill the harvested leaves for 2-3 hours to obtain the essential oil.
- Combine 50g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter in a double boiler to melt them.
- Add 10ml of the mentha x piperita essential oil to the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with throat irritation because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe and calm irritated tissues.
The cream's active ingredients, including alkylamides and phenolic acids, work together to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat. By applying the cream topically, users can experience quick relief from throat discomfort, coughing, and soreness associated with colds, flu, and other respiratory issues.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective way to alleviate throat irritation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with throat irritation.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids have antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals that can cause throat irritation and inflammation.
- Caffeic acid derivatives: These compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing irritation and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Roots: The roots are the most used part due to their high concentration of compounds like alkylamides and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe throat irritation.
- Leaves: The leaves are also commonly used due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to add their own set of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help to reduce inflammation and soothe throat irritation, while also providing a pleasant fragrance to the cream.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for throat irritation.
- Harvest 20-30 flowers of echinacea angustifolia in early morning when dew is still present for 30 minutes.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a low-temperature oven at 100°f for 2 hours or air dry for 7 days.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of dried flowers in 1 cup of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and mix it with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter to create a base.
- Add a few drops of essential oil and whip the mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency suitable for application.
4. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with throat irritation because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The active compounds in thyme, such as carvacrol and thymol, have been shown to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Thyme creams can also help to combat bacterial and viral infections that may be contributing to the throat irritation, promoting a faster recovery and relief from symptoms.
This natural remedy can be a gentle and effective solution for soothing a sore throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with throat irritation.
- Thymol: Thymol has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and reduce inflammation in the throat, providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help combat bacterial and viral infections that cause throat irritation, while also reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound with strong antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the throat, thereby alleviating inflammation and irritation caused by throat infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are widely used due to their high concentration of thymol, a compound with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: Thymus vulgaris stems are another commonly used part, containing essential oils that help soothe and calm irritated throats.
- Roots: Thymus vulgaris roots are also used due to their ability to provide long-lasting relief from throat irritation, attributed to their rich content of thymol and other bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for throat irritation.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers at peak potency for maximum benefits.
- Steam distill the harvested thymus vulgaris for 4 hours to obtain essential oil.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of thymus vulgaris essential oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes to melt the beeswax and blend the ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes before use.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat. Additionally, ginger has antimicrobial properties that can help combat infections and promote healing, making it a popular natural remedy for soothing a sore and irritated throat.
Its effectiveness has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with throat irritation.
- Gingerols: These iridoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease pain in the throat.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce inflammation in the throat, providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
- Terpenes: These terpenes have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to combat infection and reduce inflammation in the throat, thereby alleviating irritation and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make creams for throat irritation due to their high content of shogaols, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that provide relief from throat pain.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used to make creams for throat irritation because they contain zingerone, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for throat irritation.
- Harvest 5 to 7 zingiber officinale rhizomes of average size and dry them for 2 weeks in a cool place.
- Peel 3 dried rhizomes and chop them into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of chopped rhizomes with 2 ounces of distilled water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth into a bowl.
- Mix 2 ounces of cold cream with 1 teaspoon of glycerin and 1 tablespoon of the strained liquid.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream contains compounds like taraxasterol and inulin, which have been shown to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. The antiseptic properties of the cream also help to combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause throat irritation.
Additionally, dandelion cream's moisturizing effects calm and soothe the throat, making it an effective remedy for irritated throats caused by allergies, colds, or other respiratory issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with throat irritation.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help with throat irritation by possessing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.
- Terpenoids: These constituents, particularly sesquiterpenes, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and heal irritated throat tissues.
- Polysaccharides: Inulin, a type of polysaccharide, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce mucus production, providing relief from throat congestion and irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the throat.
- Roots: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in combating bacterial infections and reducing inflammation in the throat.
- Flowers: Employed for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat infections and reduce inflammation, promoting a smooth and comfortable healing process.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for throat irritation.
- Harvest 100 grams of taraxacum officinale roots and leaves on a sunny day in late summer.
- Dry the harvested taraxacum officinale in a dehydrator at 40°c for 8 hours or in shade.
- Infuse 50 grams of the dried taraxacum officinale in 500 milliliters of jojoba oil at 60°c for 2 hours.
- Mix 20 milliliters of the infused oil with 10 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of distilled water.
- Stir the mixture continuously at 60°c until it reaches a thick and creamy consistency, then let cool.
7. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream's soothing and calming effects can reduce redness and swelling in the throat, providing instant relief from discomfort and pain. Additionally, Calendula's natural antimicrobial properties can help combat bacterial and fungal infections that may be contributing to the irritation.
This makes Calendula creams an effective remedy for soothing and healing irritated throats, promoting a smooth recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with throat irritation.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues in the throat, providing relief from discomfort and pain.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Calendula have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and protect the throat from further irritation and infection.
- Sesquiterpenes: Sesquiterpenes in Calendula have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and fight off infection in the throat, promoting healing and recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and calm irritated throats.
- Leaves: They possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in reducing swelling and combating infections in the throat.
- Stems: They contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for throat irritation.
- Harvest the calendula officinalis flowers in their full bloom for 2 weeks before the first frost.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer at 30-40 degrees celsius for 1-2 hours.
- Mix 20 grams of dried calendula flowers with 100 grams of sweet almond oil in a clean glass container.
- Infuse the mixture in a double boiler at 30-40 degrees celsius for 2-4 hours.
- Strain and whip the mixture with a hand mixer to create a smooth cream base.
8. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in sage, such as rosmarinic acid and camphor, have a soothing effect on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and calming irritation. Additionally, sage's natural antibacterial properties help combat infections that may be causing the throat irritation.
This makes sage creams a popular choice for relieving sore throats and promoting overall oral health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with throat irritation.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat.
- Salvianolic acid: A polyphenolic compound that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high content of essential oils, particularly thujone and camphor, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Stems: The stems contain a smaller amount of essential oils compared to leaves but still contribute to the therapeutic effects of Salvia officinalis creams for throat irritation.
- Roots: The roots are less commonly used but can be employed in combination with other parts to enhance the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of Salvia officinalis creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for throat irritation.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves at dawn when the dew is still present.
- Steep 5-7 grams of dried salvia officinalis leaves in 100 milliliters of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Mix the steeped liquid with 10 milliliters of vegetable oil and 5 milliliters of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 5-10 minutes or until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and pour it into a sterilized container for storage and use.
9. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with throat irritation because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in fennel, such as anethole and limonene, have been shown to soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Fennel creams can provide quick relief from sore throats, coughs, and congestion, making it an effective remedy for respiratory issues.
Additionally, its expectorant properties help to thin mucus, making it easier to expel, providing further relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with throat irritation.
- Fenchone: A terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and relieve throat irritation by its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Anethole: An aromatic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, which help to soothe and calm throat muscles, reducing discomfort and pain.
- Volatiles: A mixture of volatile compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce bacterial and fungal infections that can cause throat irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm irritated throats.
- Seeds: Rich in volatile oils, particularly anethole, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties to help relieve throat congestion and irritation.
- Flowers: Used for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relax and soothe the throat muscles and reduce irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for throat irritation.
- Harvest 200 grams of fresh foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves, then dry them in a warm place for 7 days.
- Grind 100 grams of dried foeniculum vulgare into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 20 grams of beeswax with 10 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler at 180 degrees fahrenheit for 20 minutes.
- Combine 30 grams of foeniculum vulgare powder with the wax and oil mixture in the double boiler for 5 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool before whipping it into a smooth cream for 5 minutes.
10. Marrubium vulgare
Marrubium vulgare, also known as horehound, creams helps with throat irritation because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream contains compounds such as marrubiin and borneol, which have been traditionally used to calm and protect the mucous membranes. When applied topically, it reduces inflammation and swelling in the throat, providing quick relief from irritation caused by coughs, colds, and allergies.
Its natural, non-irritating formula makes it an effective and gentle solution for soothing throat discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Marrubium vulgare creams that help with throat irritation.
- Volatile oils: These oils have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, providing relief from irritation.
- Alkaloids: Marrubiin has antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause throat irritation.
- Phenolic acids: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant properties that help protect the mucous membranes in the throat from damage caused by free radicals, reducing inflammation and irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of horehound used to make creams for throat irritation.
- Leaves: The leaves are commonly used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and fighting infections in the throat.
- Roots: The roots of Marrubium vulgare contain a compound called marrubium, which has expectorant properties that help to thin mucus and make it easier to cough up, relieving congestion in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic horehound for throat irritation.
- Harvest fresh marrubium vulgare leaves and flowers in the morning when dew is still present on the plant.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm air current at 40°c for 24 hours.
- Combine 200g of dried plant material with 400g of base oil in a double boiler and heat at 60°c for 4 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Add 10g of beeswax and 20g of vitamin e oil to the mixture and blend until fully incorporated.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for throat irritation?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with throat irritation is a blend of aloe vera, calendula, and slippery elm.
Aloe vera soothes and calms the irritated tissue, while calendula promotes healing and reduces inflammation. Slippery elm, rich in mucilage, creates a protective barrier to shield the throat from further irritation. When applied together, these creams provide a powerful and natural solution to alleviate throat irritation, promoting comfort and relief from coughs and sore throats.
Regular use can also help prevent future irritation.
What ailments similar to throat irritation are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to throat irritation that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
These conditions often cause inflammation, redness, and itching on the skin, similar to the discomfort caused by throat irritation.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile can soothe and calm the affected areas, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.