One source of infection that is over looked by most people is the humble toothbrush. Left over night, it can be a potential source of problem for the throat and mouth. I would suggest keeping a small box or container of common salt in the kitchen cabinet. Every morning, before brushing the teeth, soak the brush in a glass of hot water to which a teaspoonful of common salt has been added. This helps to disinfect the toothbrush and also helps keep it clean.
Cloves are a natural antiseptic and very useful in treating throat and mouth infections.They can also act as a preventive measure and protect the throat. Just chew one clove every morning (after removing the 'flower') to find daily protection for the throat against harmful germs.
Some individuals may not like the smell or taste of cloves. They may alternatively chew five to six holy basil leaves, every morning. In the Ayurveda system of medicine, Holy Basil is well renowned for the protection it offers to the throat . If you do not have access to these leaves every morning, try cultivating a small plant at home.
Another simple way is to squeeze a little fresh ginger juice (3-4 ml) in the morning. Mix it with 5 ml of honey and take it after brushing the teeth. Ginger and honey will help protect the throat during the day.
Another herb that helps to protect the throat is Turmeric. Turmeric has anti allergy properties and will help in protecting against allergic conditions of the throat. To use it effectively, take half a cup of hot water, add a pinch of salt and 5 grams of Turmeric powder to it. Drink this mixture every night during the 'allergic' season to protect your throat.
Incorporate the habit of gargling with a glass of lukewarm water to which a pinch of salt has been added every night before bed, after brushing your teeth. This good habit will help disinfect the throat and mouth and is very beneficial for long term protection of the throat.
Many people have trouble with their throats and bronchial tubes during the dusty weather and in work environments that include a lot of dust and outdoor sales work. These kind of individuals can benefit immensely by chewing a small lump of Jaggery , during the day. The Jaggery helps cleanse the throat and bronchial tubes off dust and other irritants providing, a moisturizing and cleaning effect. it goes without saying that diabetics, cannot use this remedy as Jaggery is primarily unprocessed sugar.