Tonsillitis is a condition where the tonsils, located at the back of the throat, become inflamed and swollen. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, and common symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever. Ayurveda views tonsillitis as a result of an imbalance of the doshas, or energy forces, in the body, and seeks to restore balance through natural remedies and lifestyle changes. While antibiotics are commonly prescribed for tonsillitis, there are also many effective home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and speed up the healing process. In this article, we will discuss 10 effective home remedies to cure tonsils.
What are Tonsils?
Tonsils are two small glands located in the back of the throat, one on each side. They are part of the lymphatic system, which helps fight off infection and disease. Tonsils are made up of lymphoid tissue and play an important role in the immune system by producing antibodies that help fight off bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth and nose. However, tonsils can sometimes become infected themselves, leading to tonsillitis, which is characterised by inflammation and swelling of the tonsils. [1][2] Ayurveda views tonsillitis as a result of an imbalance of the Doshas, or energy forces, in the body, and seeks to restore balance through natural remedies and lifestyle changes.
10 Home Remedies for Tonsils
1. Gargle with Salt Water
Gargling with salt water is a simple and effective home remedy for tonsillitis. Salt water can help reduce inflammation, soothe the throat, and also kill bacteria in the mouth and throat. To make a salt water solution, mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds, then spit out. Repeat this several times a day until symptoms improve. [3]
2. Pranayama
Practising pranayama (breathing exercises) can improve respiratory function and boost the immune system while helping ease the symptoms of tonsillitis. [4]
3. Use Honey
Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that can help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Mix a tablespoon of honey with warm water or tea and drink several times a day. You can also mix honey with lemon juice and hot water for added benefits. [5]
4. Take Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory spice that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the tonsils. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm milk or water and drink several times a day. You can also add turmeric to your food or take turmeric supplements. [6]
5. Use Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil, can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth and throat. Add a few drops of essential oil to warm water and gargle for 30 seconds, then spit out. You can also add essential oils to a diffuser and inhale the steam. [7]
6. Use Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the mouth and throat. Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds, then spit out. You can also mix apple cider vinegar with honey and warm water for added benefits. [8]
7. Eat Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that can help kill bacteria in the mouth and throat and reduce inflammation. Chew on a clove of raw garlic several times a day or add garlic to your food for added benefits. [9]
8. Use Licorice Root
Licorice root is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the tonsils. Brew licorice root tea and drink it several times a day or chew on a licorice root stick for added benefits. [10]
9. Use Ginger
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the tonsils. Brew ginger tea and drink several times a day or add ginger to your food for added benefits. [11]
10. Rest and Hydrate
Resting and staying hydrated are important for fighting off infections and reducing inflammation in the tonsils. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, and soup, and get plenty of rest to help your body heal.
It is important to note that these remedies may not work as standalone treatments for Tonsillitis but can complement conventional treatments and be used in the recovery process for patients who undergo surgery to have their tonsils removed.
FAQs
1. What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?
The most common symptoms of tonsillitis include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, and bad breath.
2. What causes tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection, such as the common cold or strep throat.
3. When should I seek medical attention for tonsillitis?
You should seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience difficulty breathing. Additionally, if you have recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, your doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) as a more permanent solution.
4. How can I prevent tonsillitis?
You can prevent tonsillitis by practising good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.
5. How is tonsillitis diagnosed?
Tonsillitis is usually diagnosed based on the symptoms and a physical examination of the throat by a doctor. In some cases, a throat culture or blood test may be done to determine the cause of the infection.
6. Can tonsillitis be contagious?
Yes, tonsillitis can be contagious if it is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can be spread through close contact with someone who is infected, such as through coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tonsillitis can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but there are many effective home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and speed up the healing process. These remedies can help reduce inflammation, kill bacteria, and soothe the throat, allowing your body to heal naturally.
Disclaimer: This article is from a health and wellness perspective only and does not constitute medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a trained medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
References:
- How do the tonsils work? – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf
- Tonsillitis – ENT Health
- Colds, flu and coughing: over-the-counter products for pharyngitis and tonsillitis
- Pranayama helps to boost immunity to fight against Covid-19
- Role of honey as adjuvant therapy in patients with sore throat
- Turmeric: A holistic Solution for Biochemical malfunction
- Immune-modifying and antimicrobial effects of eucalyptus oil and simple inhalation devices
- Antimicrobial Activity of Apple Cider Vinegar
- Study The Effectiveness Of Garlic Extract On The Growth Of Pathogenic Bacteria Causes Tonsillitis In Children
- Comparative Clinical Evaluation of Herbal and Allopathic Medicine in Acute Tonsillitis
- Phytochemical-rich medicinal plant extracts suppress bacterial antigens-induced inflammation in human tonsil epithelial cells [PeerJ]
