SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT

Subject: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: BUTTERFLY
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 03:37 PM

Dear All,

This is going to make me sound a bit of a hypochondriac! Perhaps this is really a medical question, but it is I am sure a problem some of you out there have faced. Does anyone have a reliable (non-alcoholic) remedy for a cough? I have had a cough for about 2 weeks now and fear I may still have this by Tuesday 14th January 2003, when I hope, if possible, to make my first public debut singing a folk song or three (as we say) at a local venue in Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland. Originally this was to be on Tuesday 7th January, so it is actually good news that it is now taking place a week later as I might have then recovered somewhat. Unfortunately when I do get a cough, it can last for months (as from December to April in 1996/97). I have of course been taking a proprietory cough medicine from a local chemists shop ("drugstore", for the benefit of USA mudcatters). This particular remedy is called Covonia (which may or may not mean anything to people outside the UK, etc).

The cough is not quite as bad as it was, but talking, shouting or singing does quickly make it worse. The effects are (a) Your throat gets tickly and you start coughing, which is bad in the middle of a song (b) Even if you don't cough, your voice sounds hoarse and strange and I imagine the volume decreases, which in my case is not loud at the best of times(mine probably sounds strange normally anyway!). There will however probably be amplification and as the audience have come specifically to hear singing, etc, so hopefully will be reasonably quiet. (The singing is likely to be unaccomanpied, ie with no instrumental backup, rather than the singer being on his own as the audience has walked out!). As smoking is not allowed the air should be reasonably pure.

So if anyone can suggest anything which might help (preferably based on your own direct experience or someone you know, and not on hearsay) I would be very grateful. Even something which just helps for 15 or 20 minutes, ie long enough to get through the session. Some people seem to think hot lemon and honey is good.

Or if I am still bad is it better to leave it for another day? (Though I believe this particular session is mainly for newcomers, etc, to have their chance. I suppose I could always use the old joke (as heard on a LP "Trouble over Bridgewater" by the late Trevor Crozier and Friends) "I can't sing tonight on account of my throat - someone might cut it."

I should say that my previous singing experience in "public" has been limited to a few private parties years ago, and in the last year to informal folk music sessions at 2 local bars (possibly about a dozen times altogether), and also a recent "works" function (at which I sung Green Fields of France"; altogether possibly ten different songs or less.

Regardless of when the event takes place, can anyone give general guidelines on what songs or what types of songs to sing, or avoid? I imagine one should avoid (or not), ie should one avoid, for example, complicated, highly obscure, too familiar, humourous, bawdy, sentimental, excessively controversial or provocative, etc, songs? I do have several in my mind which I personally like although they may not be as familiar or as popular with the audience.

I do have several in mind, which are a mixture of international, national and local, which hopefully go down Ok without accompaniment, eg "Down in the Valley", "Down in the Valley to Pray" (these are 2 completely different songs, presumably both American, "Lord Franklin (presumably English but with a NI connection, as Francis Crozier of Banbridge, Co. Down, perished along with Sir John Franklin in the 1845 Franklin expedition to find the North-west Passage), and one which I believe came out of Ulster Linen industry "Doffing Mistress". Other possibilities are "The Last of the Great Whales" by Andy Barnes, and Eric Bogle's "No Man's Land (his original title, but it is better known as "Green Field of France", etc. The last I find hard to sing unless you get exactly the right key to start with.

I do not know how long I may be allowed, and probably will not know until the night (it will no doubt depend on how many other performers are also taking part, but suspect I should get at least 5 minutes but not more than 15-20 (which would be long enough for me anyway). Should one try a few mild jokes (any suggestions, preferably ones a UK/Northern Ireland audience would understand) as an introduction, or try and say something more serious (but hopefully interesting) about an individual song (especially if it is likely to be unfamiliar to the audience). Any suggestions welcome.

I am not expecting to bring the house down, and would be happy with (depending on the audience) (a) Being allowed to go on living (b) Not being shown the door (c) Some brief and polite applause

Also, although I know it is frowned on generally, are (printed) lyrics (to which hopefully one refers to little, if at all) forgiven in a first timer?

I presume people have noticed the recent death of Jake Thackray? (UK memembers will remember him on "That's Life" and apparently also the David Frost show, though he was hardly an international star (nor did he want to be it seems). Maybe not even a Folk Singer, though as I have seen the Australian, Rolf Harris advertised as such even in a folk music magazine here, you could certainly make a case for Jake Thackeray as well (or at least "solo acoustic singer-songwriter).

Anyway, my best wishes for the New Year to all Mudcatters. Looking forward to some help and advice.

IAN RIPPEY 28.12.2002

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 03:41 PM

Search for threads with the name "Kendall" in the title and you find a wealth of information on OTC and natural products for the throat as well as some folk remedies. Slippery Elm is the one which comes to mind. Good luck.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Thomas the Rhymer
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 04:06 PM

Butterfly, were you a chimney sweep like I was? Coughing kinda goes with the territory... But hey, I was being psychicly engulfed by an arrogant and completely self centered daughter of Eos... who couldn't take 'no' for an answer...

Beware the man with the big net, and his muttering...

No really, Sing out sing strong, and do a bunch of arobic exertion between now and then... and eat alot more protien... and cool the sugar/alchohol addiction... you are sweet enough already! Moderation in all things... including moderation itself! ttr

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 04:50 PM

What comes to mind for an herbal is Agrimony (Agrimonia Eupatoria)
Singers and speakers gargle with agrimony water. It will also help to relieve a sore throat.The tea can be drank to help coughs.
Rx-2-4 teaspoons dried leaves with 1 cup water.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Bearheart
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 05:07 PM

A wonderful herbal remedy which you should be able to find on the net is Osha Root, a plant which grows in the Rockies and a few other high altitudes in the States. If you can, buy the root and chew it. A lot of Native people chew it when singing at ceremonies, which can go on for several days. It is used a lot by the indigenous and Hispanic people in the southwest and plains areas. It kills most all respiratory microbes and has the effect of numbing the pain of a sore throat and soothing it as well. I also have made and used the tincture for the same thing, dribbling it on the back of the throat works. The tincture may be more readily available. Several performer friends have save a concert that was in jepardy by dosing on my tincture. It also is excellent for dissolving and drying up phlem in the lungs and bronchii.

Bekki

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Louie Roy
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 05:17 PM

If you take 1 tablespoon of castor oil plus 1 tablespoon of crotin oil plus 1 tablespoon mineral oil every hour for 4 hour you will be afraid to cough

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: pattyClink
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 05:24 PM

Ian, if you're having coughs last that long it may be your winter environment. You may need to humidify the air where you live. Your head needs enough moisture in the winter--avoid products that 'dry your head out'. Just something to consider.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Sonnet
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 05:32 PM

Have you tried Vocalzones lozenges?

Jay

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Clinton Hammond
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 05:51 PM

"Fisherman's Friend" throat lozenges... by the handfull... Especially the 'original extra strong' ones.. gonna get me through a smoky loud pub gig tonight as best they can...

Lotsa luck eh!

:-)

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: bigchuck
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 06:36 PM

There's a commercially available compound called Clear Throat that we have been selling at the music store. It comes in a little spray bottle and purports to be all natural and organic. I have had good results from it.
Sandy

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: kendall
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 07:05 PM

My speech pathologist/ therapist recommends Cammomile tea and lemon, at least 8 glasses of water per day and a vaporizer in your bedroom.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Haruo
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 07:24 PM

Here are some UK links pertinent to Osha Root (since it may be that not every chemist's shop yon side of the water has it in stock).

Haruo

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: BUTTERFLY
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 07:33 PM

Dear All,

Thanks for the suggested remedies, although as I have heard of very few (except Slippery Elm and Agrimony) they may not be available in the UK. I own up to having a sweet tooth but no great liking for alcohol and by asking for a non-alcoholic remedy I merely meant to avoid getting the advice to drink hot whisky! (I need to stay sober if trying to sing as my pronounciation would be otherwise even worse).

As something of an amateur meteorologist (ie weather watcher), I can state that in Northern Ireland this has been the wettest year in the 1961-2002 period, and our problem is usually too much rather than too little humidity, which normally exceeds 80%, probably more in winter months. This December though (December is usually among the wettest months, eg December 1999 was the wettest month of any name in the last 42 years) has been actually rather dry). As someone once said, colds are got from people, not by getting cold! Apparently farmers as a group (who spend a lot of time outdoors) have more colds per head of population than the general population.

IAN RIPPEY 28.12.2002


Having got that (if unfortunately not yet the cough!) off my chest I was slightly disappointed that no-one has yet made any suggestions about types of songs, etc, although it is probably my own fault for going on about coughs, etc, beforehand.
However there is plenty of time yet.

IAN RIPPEY 28.12.2002

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Thomas the Rhymer
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 07:52 PM

Research your potential audience. Give'em what they want, suprise'em, dazzle them, chat'em up, laugh'em down, give'em what you've got! Show'em what yer made of...Love'm real gooood! ttr

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Alice
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 08:54 PM

Go to a doctor for a cough you have had that long. Don't mess with self medicating - seek a physician, a specialist in the nose/throat if possible. Do not sing if your throat is hurting. Do not use products that deaden the pain, as you may damage your thoat while singing because you can't feel how painful it is!

Herbal remedies are touted widely, but are NOT necessarily good for singers. Read the following and see a doctor.

http://www.upmc.edu/upmcvoice/Herbmedsingers.htm


                         University of Pittsburgh Voice Center

                                                                           

                         For Your Information:

                         Taking Herbal Medicines:
                         What Singers Should Know

                         By Jason B. Surow, M.D. , F.A.C.S.
                         Northern Jersey Ear, Nose and Throat Associates
                         44 Godwin Avenue, Midland Park,
                         New Jersey, 07432
                         http://www. njent.com

                         There has been a recent increase in the use of alternative medicine treatments by many
                         individuals, including singers. The following is important information that was collected by
                         Jason B. Surow, MD, during a recent survey of singers regarding their use of alternative
                         medicine treatments for voice disorders. An alarming number of singers reported using a
                         variety of alternative medicine strategies, predominantly herbal medicines, for their voice
                         problems. The great concern regarding this use of herbal medicines for the treatment of voice
                         disorders is the unknown side effects of these herbal medications.

                         The following information is of potential concern and caution for singers in regarding the use
                         of herbal medicines, vitamins and nutrients. These lists are condensed from a variety of
                         sources and publications on herbal medicines, and often claims from these sources are listed in
                         quotations. No attempts at substantiation of these claims were made for this listing.

                         Herbal Medicine with Possible Anticoagulation Results (Blood thinning effect)

                         Dong Quai- "contains coumarin"*
                         Willow bark- "contains salicylates" *
                         Primrose
                         Cowslip
                         Jack-in-the-Pulpit -
                         Red root- "causes clotting disorders
                         "Garlic- "in high dose worsens anticoag" "inhibits platelet aggregation and has fibrinolytic
                         activity"***

                         Vitamin E - "in high doses"
                         Gingko Biloba-"inhibits platelet aggregation"***

                         Feverfew-"inhibits components of the clotting cascade and may inhibit platelet aggregation"***

                         Ginger-"reduces platelet aggregation"
                         ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                         *coumadin (warfacin) is a powerful blood-thinning agent
                         ** salicyate= aspirin
                         ***this can cause prolonged bleeding

                         Herbal Medicines with Possible Inhalant Allergy Cross-Reactivity

                         With Ragweed:
                         Chamomile- "long term use can lead to ragweed allergy"
                         Goldenseal

                         With Sunflower:
                         Echinacea

                         Photosensitization Concerns From Herbal Medicine (skin rash and sensitivity
                         to sunlight)

                         St. John's Wort
                         Celery
                         Dong Qua
                         iYarrow

                         Herbal Medicine with Possible Diuretic Effects (water losing effect)

                         Elder "strong diuretic"
                         Feverfew
                         Dandelion
                         Nettles

                         Herbal Medicine with Possible Blood Pressure Concerns
                         St. John's Wort*- MAO inhibitor effect. "Don't take with amphetamines, amino acids, asthma
                         inhalers, caffeine, decongestants, beer, wine, yogurt, fermented or smoked foods." [avoid
                         amino acid tyramine] Avoid narcotics due to high incidence of high fever with coma.

                         Ma Huang (ephedra)*- "avoid in MAO inhibitor use (often used in depression), glaucoma,
                         anxiety, heart problems"

                         Goldenseal
                         Ginseng
                         Licorice root- causes fluid retention.
                         --------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         *MAO inhibitor is a class of drugs that are commonly used for the treatment of depression

                         Herbal Medicines with Possible Immune Dysregulation Effects

                         Echinacea- "may overstimulate immune system and lead to immune suppression" "Increases
                         tumor necrosis factor" "Don't use in HIV" Don't use for more than 2 weeks in a row.

                         Certain herbs should not be used in autoimmune problems like Multiple Sclerosis, arthritis, and
                         others.

                         Problems with Production of Herbal Products

                         L-Tryptophan - l 989 contamination led to several hundred cases of eosinophilia- myalgia
                         syndrome, and at least one death.

                         Anticholinergic poisoning from herbal tea yerba de mate (Paraguay tea) contaminated by
                         Belladonna alkaloids from weeds overgrowing in the field

                         Vitamin Toxicity

                         Vitamin C- cramps, flatulence, bloating, diarrhea
                         Vitamin E- "thins blood" "reduces effectiveness of thyroid replacement" "avoid high doses
                         with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, insulin, dependent diabetes, heart
                         problems"

                         Uterine Stimulants
                         yarrow
                         lady's mantle
                         dong quai
                         chamomile
                         cinnamon
                         myrrh
                         yam
                         licorice root
                         many others

                         Herbal Medicines with Possible Hormonal Effects (the vocal folds are known
                         to change due to some hormones; this can be permanent)

                         Dong Quai- "increases effects of ovarian and testicular hormones". Used to treat hormonal
                         problems

                         Yam- "progesterone-like " chemicals

                         Licorice root- "has estrogen and progesterone effect. May change pitch of voice"

                         Hops- "high proportion of estrogens and can lead to loss of libido in men"

                         Primrose- "natural estrogen promoter"

                         Melatonin- "major role in production of estrogen & progesterone & other hormones." "acts as
                         contraceptive in high doses"

                         Yohimbe- "may increase testosterone. Women shouldn't use"

                         Other Cautions

                         Don't use with fever- astragalus(huang qi), goldenseal, others

                         Chewing leaves of feverfew is a folk remedy but can cause mouth sores

                         Lobelia has "nicotine-like" effects and >50 gms can suppress breathing and depress BP and
                         even lead to coma

                         Ginseng lowers blood sugar so shouldn't be used if hypoglycemic

                         Nutmeg is toxic in high doses

                         Sage has chemical (thujone) that can trigger seizures in epileptics.

                         Melatonin- don't use if severe allergy, immune disorder, or cancer

                         Peppermint relaxes smooth muscle and can promote gastric acid reflux into the
                         throat

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Alice
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 08:58 PM

Many things can cause acid reflux that hurts the vocal folds (cords). Avoid spicy food, mints, ginger.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Dec 02 - 09:14 PM

I gave a friend some Celestial Seasonings (the brand name) "Throat Soother Tea," and she gave it to her husband who is a music producer. He now keeps it in his studio for any performers who develop sore throats. It doesn't make it go away entirely, but it does lessen the pain. It does exactly what it says--soothes the throat. They swear by it.

I agree with Alice, avoid sugar. (I wouldn't avoid mint, though--it can do wonders to soothe an upset stomach).

SRS

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Mudlark
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 03:22 AM

Ian...

For cough you might try zinc lozenges.

For performance: if cough still with you it might be wise to limit your performance to 5-8 minutes no matter how much time you are "given," so as not to tempt fate. As far as "in between songs chat" stuff, do what you are comfortable with. I would advise against using a cheat sheet as it can interfere with your rapport with the audience, but do sing stuff you love and know very well. If the audience has some sensitivity and is paying attention your passion will communicate, and if you know the music cold even a cough or two wont take too much away. In my own limited experience actual selections aren't as important as overall performance flow, such as alternating fast/slow, sad/happy, etc.

Glad you have a bit more time to heal. Good luck...

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Celtic Soul
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 10:37 AM

Robitussin D for a cough.

Hot herbal tea with lemon and honey for a sore throat.

Chewing on licorice root for a sore throat (not the candy...the root).

Humidifier at night to keep the throat from drying out in the winter.

These seem to work for me...

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 11:09 AM

One of the primary things for being in good voice and without various throat or respertory ills is simply drinking enough water. It's not just the air you breathe that needs enough humidity, but your body needs to be well hydrated as well.

Inexpensive, available most places, no side effects (other than running to the loo -- hey, and that's good aerobic exercise as well!).

Linn

Subject: Entertainer's Secret throat spray
From: Alice
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 11:17 AM

There is an excellent throat spray that lubricates with glycerin and is made specifically for singers and speakers. It is called ENTERTAINER'S SECRET. It is made in the US by Kli Corp, Carmel, IN (Indiana) 46032. The phone number is 800-308-7452. You can get it on the internet at
http://www.entertainers-secret.com/.

If you can't get something like Entertainer's Secret in your location, maybe a Mudcatter can order for you and send it on to your address.
I use it and it works. You need to stay away from sprays that are made with anesthetics or decongestants when you are close to a performance. Use nothing that will dry the tissues or numb your throat.

Stilly, I used to use alot of mints, mainly because I like the taste, but recently I found out that mint does cause acid reflux, which causes damage to the larynx/vocal cords.

From a site on VOCAL CORD DISFUNCTION (VCD):
http://cantbreathesuspectvcd.com/page5.html
People having gastric reflux (which can cause
               VCD) should avoid MINT(in all forms, including toothpaste, tooth powder, mouthwash, tea,
               candy, etc.--at least until no more VCD attacks for 3 months). Also avoid scented and
               chemical products. (Ref.17,21, and see "links" page: (E) about avoiding mint, etc.)

Alice

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: GUEST,Mack
Date: 29 Dec 02 - 11:25 AM

Try the knife.
(Someone had to say it.)

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: BUTTERFLY
Date: 21 Jan 03 - 08:42 PM

There must be a lot of budding doctors/herbalists out there, judging by all the suggestions about cough remedies, etc. I still have the cough but the "performance" (of 2 songs, "Lord Franklin" and "All the Good Times", if anyone is interested) on 14.1.2003 went reasonably well, in that I didn't cough and managed to sing in tune during the actual performance). As to whether it was much good, that is debatable. I recorded it on a high quality Camcorder and when watching it afterwards actually found it a bit embarrassing, ie rather nasal, as if I was holding my nose, and also a bit childish (even though I am 49!). As other more experienced singers sounded OK on the same tape, may be it is just me (this is not simply false modesty, but an honest opinion). Of course the audience clapped, but then they usually do.

I suppose for proper comparison I would need to have Video footage of me singing when the cough/cold is completely better. Does anyone out there have any comments about seeing or hearing themselves on Video or Audio tape, etc?

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: mack/misophist
Date: 21 Jan 03 - 09:35 PM

Most 'ordinary' people ask for codine cough syrup for an incalcitrant cough. The secret is that the codine does the work. It doesn't make a damn bit of difference what the syrup is. Lemon in all forms is good for the throat, rosehop tea, also. Now ask your friends for their left over codine. Don't take too much. If it doesn't help in a week, see a doctor, no matter what you think of them.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Bagpuss
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 06:36 AM

I read something recently about chocolate being more effective than codeine for preventing coughs.

I don't care if its true, just another excuse to eat chocolate.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: GUEST,Sooz(at work)
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 08:15 AM

Unfortunately, chocolate stimulates the production of mucus which will aggravate or even cause a cough. Lots of other good excuses to eat it though!

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 09:33 AM

I was going to suggest sucking a Fisherman's Friend but fear I might be misconstrued... so I won't.

RtS
(Old jokes taken out for an airing, now and again)

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Deni-C
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 09:45 AM

Can't speak highly enough of Vocalzones, which someone's already mentioned. They can turn a hopeless thoat into a useable one in minutes.

Don't thrash a sore throat for too long though, you can end up with months of troubles.

rest it by not talking. a therapist told me whispering is not a good idea as it strains the vocal folds.


Oooo-er

Cheers
deni

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Bellowbelle
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 01:36 PM

I worked at an Ayurveda Center for a while, and learned about ginger root. It's great.

If your grocer sells ginger root in the produce section, buy a few inches, cut a few pieces and boil it in water for a few minutes. Then, drink that like a tea. Keep a thermos full, maybe.

Or, look for ready-made ginger tea...Alvita sells it, and they have a website.

Some people don't peel ginger root, but, I do peel it. (Still arguing about that one.)

If you have a juicer -- you can juice the ginger, and add an equal volume of honey, and drink about a tablespoon or two of that. It's very strong, warms the stomach and may help get rid of a cough. (At the Center, we added something else, black salt maybe, but I can't remember.)

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Sooz
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 01:45 PM

Ginger and lemon is brilliant, but you can't beat a Fisherman's Friend in an emergency!

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Alice
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 03:07 PM

Butterfly, according to your account, you've had that cough since 2 weeks before you first posted this on December 28. See a doctor!

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Boab
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 04:17 PM

If you can get your Doc to prescribe "Pulmicort" in the inhaler form, an improvement is almost guaranteed. This medication inhibits the formation of fluids in the lungs which trigger the cough reflex. Being a sufferer from [fairly mild, as yet] emphysema, I use it regularly. G'luck!

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Dead Horse
Date: 22 Jan 03 - 05:33 PM

Sloe gin won't get you drunk, and you only need a sip.
Wash it round the mouth, and gargle it down the throat before singing.
It works for me.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: sed
Date: 30 Jan 03 - 09:32 AM

Kam Wo (herbal) tea from the PR of China is fantastic. But in case you might be allergic to some of the many ingredients, be careful. I have lots of allergies but it's the best thing for my taurean throat I've ever found besides drinking a glass of water every hour and getting plenty of rest (yeah, I don't drink a glass every hour while sleeping...; maybe I need an nocturnal IV? just a joke...).

Several years ago I bought the loose tea for less than $2. in Birmingham, Alabama, USA, at an oriental food store near UAB (corner of 7th Avenue and 23rd St. So., I think).

Steve

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Beccy
Date: 30 Jan 03 - 09:36 AM

Butterfly- This is going to sound gross, but I swear it works for me. A dear Australian friend of mine assures me it's commonly quaffed down under.
1/2 cup cider vinegar
2 HUGE TB honey
8 oz. boiling water
optional: a thumbnail sized hunk of ginger root.

Pour the boiling water over everything else, cover with a saucer for 3 minutes. Remove saucer and drink whilst hot. If you're brave and have a taste for it, eat the ginger afterward. Loads of medicinal properties. It'll cure your cough and sore throat.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: MMario
Date: 30 Jan 03 - 09:48 AM

Why gross? vinagered drinks have been quite common in recorded history

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Beccy
Date: 30 Jan 03 - 01:52 PM

MMario- I say "may sound gross" because "EWWWWWW... GROSS!!!" has been the reaction of every other person I've told to drink the mixture! I like it. My family likes it. My friend likes it- but the rest of the world, at least in these parts, says I'm nuts to drink it.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Roughyed
Date: 30 Jan 03 - 07:19 PM

Vocalzones enable you to sing when you probably shouldn't. For an emergency if you have to, use them but be aware that you can be damaging your vocal chords. The important thing is to keep your vocal chords hydrated. Water, weak tea or weak fruit juice do this. Alcohol, black coffee and throat lozenges don't.

Inhaling steam is a good way of hydrating vocal chords directly. Drinking liquid doesn't touch the vocal chords themselves because their purpose is to close the lungs off from liquid we drink. A voice therapist I heard said that most of her patients were untrained semi professional singers who belted it out in smoky pubs and clubs and used all sorts of things to keep singing when they should be resting.

I had a friend who had a persistent cough who turned out to be allergic to his dog. Worth a thought.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: BUTTERFLY
Date: 02 Feb 03 - 07:21 AM

Oh the variety of products and cures which have been suggested! The trouble is that probably different things work with different people, and perhaps, especially with so-called "alternative" remedies, there is a placebo or psychological effect, or the patient was about to get better naturally anyway. Anecdotal evidence in the case of medical problems is no substitute for properly controlled scientific tests (I am not a doctor by the way so have no vested interest in this respect).

Perhaps in the USA where cold dry winters are the rule, dry air may be a problem (perhaps accentuated by air conditioning which would lower the relative humidity further), but in the British Isles our winters tend to be damp and mild. Anyway, even when coughing, my throat hasn't been dry, if anything the opposite. As I have stated, fortunately on the night of the performance, my coughing did not materialise. However since then, if I talk or sing for more than a short time, it tends to re-appear, with a certain amount of phlegm.

I am about to try a Cider Vinegar/Honey mixture which a friend of a friend of my mother recommended.

I have also seen a doctor, but all he gave me was some antibiotics (which act against bacteria not viruses, the latter being the cause of colds). About 6 winters ago I had a cough (not always bad) which went on from December to at least late April, so this one which has lasted about 2 months is not as bad as it sounds (I have never smoked by the way and do not work in a dusty atmosphere). Incidently why were there THIRTY-FIVE different postings to Mudcat on varieties of cigarettes; what has this got to do with folk music? I am sure there must be 1 or more smokers newsgroups on the Internet where they can ruminate to their hearts content about different brands, etc.

One problem which occurs with me regardless of whether I have a cold is the build up of moisture/saliva in a tin whistle or harmonica, after playing for a little while. This tends to reduce volume or distort the note, though not evenly, so certain notes (perhaps especially the higher ones) sound worse. I use a brush to remove moisture from the whistle though the effect soon builds up again. I also find that the upper few notes in the upper octave on a whistle tend to sound very shrill. Holding the whistle to the side (like a flute) or vertically from the chin, rather than more or less horizontal, seems to help a bit though is less comfortable and may also reduce the volume. I have noticed that much better players do not seem to have these problems (perhaps I just tend to produce a lot of saliva!). Any suggestions on how to overcome these problems would be welcome.

Subject: RE: SOMETHING FOR THE THROAT
From: Gurney
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 04:35 AM

Slip a few recitations in, they're easier on the throat, and if you cough, the song doesn't fall apart.
Make a joke of it. A wry introduction to Mike Harding's 'Uncle Joe's Mint Balls' will put the audience well on your side before you even start to sing it.
Sorry, can't suggest chemical comforts beyond Ethanol, which will not improve the voice, but perhaps the mood, temporarily.