Best Lozenges for the Voice
Sourced from University of Queensland
A sore throat can significantly impact the productivity and performance of pro voice users, like singers, podcasters, and actors. In those instances, you may search for a lozenge or tea recommendation to help you perform. There are tons of lozenges marketed to singers and actors. Which lozenge is best for a singer’s voice?
1. Honey and Lemon Lozenges
Honey and lemon lozenges are fairly well-known. Honey soothes the throat and has antibacterial properties that can help with inflammation. Lemon is also thought to fight inflammation and cut through irritation. These lozenges are likely helpful when you’re coming down with a cold.
2. Slippery Elm Lozenges
Slippery elm lozenges are a favorite among vocalists. Slippery elm coats the throat, making it feel lubricated. This is called a demulcent effect and is common among vocal lozenges.
3. Licorice Lozenges
Licorice is also a demulcent (soothes and coats the throat) and can help with inflammation. However, due to its cortisol- and aldosterone-like effects, caution should be exercised in those with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or those on diuretics. As careers get longer and performers are working well into their 60s and 70s, even a lozenge should be considered carefully.
4. Menthol Lozenges - Vocal Zone pastilles
Vocal Zone pastilles were actually created by an ENT for a classical singer in 1907! Their popularity has held on and their components include levomenthol, peppermint oil and myrrh as well as a few other extracts. Peppermint can actually increase reflux so reflux sufferers (LPR or GERD) should avoid these. Myrrh reduces inflammation and provides relief of soreness but should not be used when pregnant. Pain relief with menthol should be used with caution. If needed regularly, it suggests there is likely something underlying that needs to be addressed.
5. Throat Coat Lozenges
Much like its tea counterpart, Throat Coat lozenges offer a blend of natural ingredients like licorice root, slippery elm, and marshmallow root, all designed to coat and soothe the throat.
Lozenges, teas, and other natural remedies have proprietary blends that are not fully researched or disclosed. There are clearly side effects to natural products as well and reliance on lozenges for performance should be a concern for vocal injury or need for vocal care. However, occasional use for illness or high pressure performance can be a great help.
Meenan, K. (2016) Common vocal remedies: what are they and do they really work?, Research portal. Available at: https://researchdiscovery.drexel.edu/esploro/outputs/journalArticle/Common-vocal-remedies-what-are-they/991019312324304721 (Accessed: 15 September 2024).
