Remedies for Singers' Voice
9-1-15
The voice is not an organ, but rather, the external phonatory output of the vocal tract. While this may seem obvious, it has important implications for all voice clinicians (laryngologist, speech language pathologist, voice teacher, voice coach, and voice scientist).
The vocal tract consists of four components:
- The "Generator", which is the breath support provided by the lungs. A regulated breath stream is the principal force that drives the vibration of the vocal folds. Without air flowing through the larynx, the vocal folds can make no sound. Thus, the condition of the lungs and how efficiently the breath stream is utilized have a great influence on vocal function.
- The "Vibrator", which is the larynx; specifically, the vocal folds themselves. The folds are actually little more than a vibrator. The richness of sound and the subtleties of articulation are the result of the "resonator" and the "articulator" above the larynx. Problems of the vibrator include all problems of the larynx and its supporting structures.
- The "Resonator", which consists of the space above the larynx, and includes most of the pharynx. This resonating cavity gives the voice its harmonic overtones, its richness. Problems with the resonator are uncommon, although, for example, tonsillectomy in a singer may temporarily adversely alter the resonator.
- The "Articulator", which is made up of the tongue, lips, cheeks, teeth, and palate. These structures shape the sound from below into words and other vocal gestures. Medical problems involving the articulator are uncommon; for the singer, most problems of the articulator are corrected by the voice coach or teacher.
Being that it's winter many singers, actors and musical theatre performers may find that their throats are little worse for wear. Something as simple as a cold can completely ruin a performer's voice if not taken care of properly. Here's some simple remedies for soothing your tired voice.
(If you think you have a bacterial infection: spots on your tonsils, colored mucus or a fever, see a doctor immediately. You might need antibiotics.)
Simple Magic Remedies for Sore Throats
1. The Holy Trinity: Lemon, Honey and Ginger
Lemon: High in vitamin C, which keeps the immune system strong and neutralizes the free radicals in your body. This reduced the inflammation and swelling.
Ginger: Helps you sweat out the toxins in your body, which is helpful when you have a cold or flu. Ginger is also helpful for settling upset stomachs, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and cold sweats.
Honey: Soothes a sore throat, making it an effective and natural cough suppressant. It's a natural anticeptic. This improves the body’s ability to fight infection and decreases the risk of fevers. The natural sweetness of honey also balances the tartness of the lemon and the ginger’s spice, giving honey, lemon and ginger tea its soothing flavor.
2. Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa
A natural herbal Chinese remedy that's available in Hong Kong and specialty shops overseas. You might know it as the sore throat medicine that's in the red box. The formula for Pei Pa Koa was originally created by Doctor Ip Tin-See, a physician for the Qing Dynasty. Yang Jin, a county commander, asked Doctor Ip to treat his mother's persistent cough.
3. Rest
I know it sounds simple but simply giving your voice a 6-12 hour rest can help bring it back to life and recover any rawness from coughing.
4. Heat
Hot compresses, hot tea, a heating pad can help bring down inflammation of the throat. It can also reduce coughing. Make sure that your compress is not over 38 degrees in Celcius and that you leave it on for only 20 minutes at a time. Steaming and wearing a scarf can also bring heat to your throat if a compress is not possible.
5. Licorice or Marshmallows
Both of these contain Anise. They make anise tea to treat colds but you can get a similar effect by simply chowing down on some sugary treats. The anise coats the throat and sooths pain.
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