Strep throat, also known as Streptococcal pharyngitis or
Streptococcal sore throat, is a contagious infection of the
mucous membranes of the pharynx caused by group A Streptococcus
bacteria. It primarily affects children and those with weakened
immune systems and is responsible for about ten percent of all
sore throats. Conventional treatment of strep throat utilizing
antibiotics like penicillin and erythromycin are very effective.
There are also alternative treatments using goldenseal
(Hydrastic canadensis), echinacea (Echinacea spp.), and garlic
(Allium sativum). These, like penicillin and erythromycin, come
from organisms, reflecting the rich diversity of cures available
in the natural world for treating human ailments. If strep
throat is not treated, it can develop into rheumatic fever or
other serious conditions. For such reasons, it is important that
the full course of prescribed antibiotics be taken. One of the
causal factors in progression to rheumatic fever is the
premature discontinuation of the ant