By Jeannie Deva

With the holiday season and cooler weather approaching, here are several remedies you can use if vocal problems arise.

Massage

As directed on my "Vocal Warm-ups and Cool-Downs" CD, a neck and throat massage can bring oxygen into your tired muscles by stimulating the blood flow. I have a number of gentle vocal exercises, which are also found on the CD, that use vibration therapeutically to reduce swelling and rejuvenate the vocal folds thus improving your singing.

Gentle humming at a low volume with your lips together can also be of assistance, working your voice back and forth little by little over a small range of notes. When you do this, your tongue must stay relaxed and you�ll find the tip of it will rest behind your lower teeth. Let your voice vibrate and do not push your breath out.

Voice Technique

If your vocal fatigue or hoarseness is from poor technique � not what you sing, but how you sing it � then ultimately a supportive vocal technique is really your answer and should be developed before you run into long-term vocal problems. If you can�t afford time or money to go to a teacher, then I suggest working with my �Contemporary Vocalist� book and CDs. This self-study course is interactive and I guide you step by step through the materials to achieve the range, flexibility and stamina that will keep your voice healthy. In the meantime, here are a few temporary remedies.

Herbal Remedies

If your voice is hoarse or fatigued from overuse or illness, the following four herbal remedies can ease discomfort and assist recovery. None of these will eliminate infection and do not replace going to a doctor if needed, but they can help reduce the inflammation associated with respiratory illness.

Licorice Root Tea: Boil water in a saucepan. Reduce to low heat, add several licorice twigs and simmer covered for 20 minutes. Strain the liquid into a cup and sip slowly once cool enough to drink. You may find licorice to be sweet enough as it is, or add honey to taste. Use more or fewer twigs to adjust concentration to taste. This tea reportedly helps with vocal fatigue, hoarseness and coughing.

Chewable Papaya Enzyme Tablets: Papaya enzymes are assistive in reducing inflammation. Take a tablet and tuck it between the gum of your upper teeth and cheek. Let it dissolve, resisting the temptation to chew it. The ingredients will go into your system via the mucous membranes of your mouth. You can do this every few hours while the need is great.

Bromelain: Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple plants and is available in tablet or capsule form for oral use. It is useful in the treatment of a wide range of conditions, but it is particularly effective in relieving inflammation associated with infection and physical injuries. If you are currently being treated with any medications such as blood thinners, you should not use bromelain without first consulting your healthcare provider. In fact, if you are under a doctor�s care, consult with him before using any of these herbal remedies.

Slippery Elm Lozenges: Slippery Elm is a demulcent (soothing medicine) made from Elm tree bark which is used by singers to moisten their throats without drinking water. It can also be used to soothe sensitive or inflamed mucous membrane linings of the throat. Some have found it helps reduce the discomfort of other conditions such as diarrhea, gastritis, sore throats, intestinal ulcers, lung ailments and asthma.

I have no experience with its effectiveness with these conditions but do know it is very soothing for tired or irritated throats. Slippery Elm lozenges are also a good way to keep your mouth moist during rehearsal or performance without the need to keep drinking water. You can purchase these lozenges on our web site or receive a box free when you place an order for $20 or more.

Healthy Voice

Remember, none of the above take the place of seeking professional assistance if your vocal problems are chronic. Use of good vocal technique to keep your voice resilient, proper nutrition and adequate rest are the surest ways to keep your voice healthy. However, during the holidays, colder weather or periods of vocal strain, it is good know and use any of these soothing remedies.

Wishing you the Best in Singing,

Jeannie