Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx), which usually results from overuse, irritation or infection. The larynx consists of cartilage and muscles which are covered by two mucous membranes called vocal cords, which form the entrance of the windpipe (trachea).

When vocal cords function normally, they open and close smoothly, and their movement and vibration form sounds. With laryngitis, they become inflamed or irritated, which results in a voice that sounds hoarse because of the distortion of the sounds produced by air passing over them. In some cases of laryngitis, a person’s voice can become so distorted that it can’t even be heard.

Laryngitis can be acute or chronic. Most of the time, acute laryngitis is simply an irritation and inflammation that is caused by a virus. Any hoarseness experienced on a consistent basis may be indicative of a more serious problem.

Typical signs and symptoms of laryngitis include:

- Hoarseness

- Weak voice

- Tickling sensation and rawness of your throat

- Sore throat

- Dry throat

- Dry cough

Most cases of laryngitis are caused by a viral infection. In some rare cases, a bacterial infection such as diphtheria may be the cause. A person with another illness, such as a cold, flu or pneumonia may develop laryngitis as well as a result of the illness.

Common causes of chronic laryngitis include:

Constant irritation from excessive alcohol, heavy smoking or reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Sores on the vocal cords

Growths on the vocal cords

Loosening of vocal cords due to aging

Vocal cord paralysis, which can result from injury, stroke or a lung tumor

Treating laryngitis holistically includes following the regimen outlined below:

Try not to speak

Drink plenty of fluid, preferably 8 to 10 glasses of pure water on a daily basis

Use a humidifier to moisten the air

Avoid clearing the throat

Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.

Avoid gargling, which may harm inflamed vocal cords

Supplementing with the following may also be very helpful:

Zinc - Helps sore throat pain and stimulates the immune system when used in lozenge form.

Grapefruit Seed Extract (take as directed on label) - Helps kill germs and has antibiotic properties.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (1,000 - 3,000 mg daily) - Helps boost immune function.

Vitamin A (take as directed on label) - Helps support mucus membranes.

Acidophilus (take as directed on label) - Helps replace normal intestinal bacteria.

Sage Tea and Garlic (take as directed on label) - Kills germs.

Tea Tree Oil (put a few drops in warm water and gargle) - Natural antiseptic.

Lemon - A natural disinfectant. Squeeze some fresh lemon in each glass of pure water.

Violet - (take as directed on label) This herb is used as a syrup for dryness of the upper-respiratory tract, chronic coughs and asthma.