Do you feel a certain amount of stuffiness in your throat that makes it hard or even painful to swallow? Do you notice swelling around your throat?
If you display the above symptoms, you could be suffering from tonsillitis. Tonsils are two lymph nodes that are present in the back of either side of your throat. Their primary purpose is to defend the body from infections. The infection of these lymph nodes could cause swelling and soreness, which results in a condition called tonsillitis.
Did You Know!
| Tonsil removal (Tonsillectomy) was considered to be a cure for bed-wetting! (1)
While the condition is painful and unbearable, it is rather common. Further, it is even more common among children than adults. About 15 to 30% of children have suffered from tonsillitis at some point. On the other hand, only 5 to 10% of adults have contracted this condition. Tonsillitis is so common that tonsillectomy, the surgery for removal of tonsils, is one of the most frequent procedures performed in the UK alone! |
So if you are looking for ways on how to treat tonsillitis, then you have come to the right place! We will have a look at some of the best natural remedies for tonsillitis.
Naturopathic Remedies for Tonsillitis
Causes
Before we explore the various remedies for how to get rid of tonsillitis, let us first understand what causes it in the first place. Tonsils produce white blood cells to fight illness and infections that may be caused by the invasion of bacteria or viruses through the mouth. However, they are also susceptible to such pathogens.
Did You Know? The body contains FOUR sets of tonsils – the pharyngeal tonsils (adenoids), tubal tonsils, palatine tonsils, and lingual tonsils. Collectively, they form the Waldeyer’s ring.
Tonsillitis is caused by viruses that cause the common cold or by bacteria that causes strep throat. While viruses are the most common culprits behind tonsillitis, almost 30% of tonsillitis cases are caused by bacteria.
Children who come in contact with affected children get exposed to the bacteria and virus, and as such develop tonsillitis too.
Tonsillitis is of two main types, namely:
- Recurrent tonsillitis: Multiple episodes of acute tonsillitis in a year
- Chronic tonsillitis: Longer and more frequent episodes of tonsillitis
Signs and Symptoms
Some common signs and symptoms associated with tonsillitis are:
- Acute sore throat
- Pain or difficulty in swallowing
- Raspy, scratchy-sounding voice
- Putrid breath
- Fever and chills
- Stomachaches
- Earaches
- Headaches
- Stiff Neck
- Tenderness in the jaw or throat region
- Inflammed tonsils
- Tonsils with yellow or white spotting
In this section, we will explore the natural cures for tonsillitis.
CURE 1: Home remedies for Tonsillitis
Below is a list of some of the highly effective home remedies for tonsillitis.
1. Saline Water Gargling
Gargling with saline water has been the go-to natural remedy for treating any kind of throat issues. Hence, it comes as no surprise that it can also help relieve tonsillitis.
Did You Know? Salt is a natural disinfectant!
Why Does it Work?
The mucosal buildup acts as breeding grounds for the microbes that cause tonsillitis. Warm saline water gargling melts the phlegm that is present between the tonsils and clogs your throat and mouth. As a result, it makes the environment unsuitable for the infection to thrive and also makes breathing easier(2). Further, the antiseptic property(3) of salt effectively targets the infection.
Materials Required
- A teaspoon of common salt.
- A cup of lukewarm water.
Process
- Stir the salt into the water.
- Gargle while the saline water is still warm.
Frequency
Follow this routine multiple times in a day.
[Also Read: Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Sore Throat]
2. Alum
Alum has been a staple household item for filtering water. However, its health benefits are not unknown. While it does benefit the skin and the gums, it also offers tonsillitis pain relief.
Did You Know? Alum is often used as an adjuvant, which is a compound that enhances and increases the longevity and durability of a vaccine!
Why Does it Work?
Alum is a potent bactericide(4) with powerful anti-inflammatory properties(5). As a result, it can alleviate pain associated with tonsillitis and also reduce the infection.
Materials Required
- Half a teaspoon of alum powder
- A glass of lukewarm water
Process
- Stir in the alum powder in hot water.
- Gargle with the lukewarm solution.
NOTE: Alternatively, you can combine equal parts of alum powder and water to make a paste, which you can apply externally to your throat.
Frequency
Try this remedy about two to three times a day. However, do not ingest alum in any way.
CURE 2: Beverages
A number of drinks can cure even severe tonsillitis. Let’s take a look at the most effective ones.
1. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is not really a ‘tea’ as it is prepared from the dried petals of the chamomile flower. However, it is extremely potent and offers a diverse range of health benefits.
Did You Know? Ancient Egyptians made use of chamomile in the mummifying process!
Why Does it Work?
Drinking warm chamomile tea can soothe the throat. The anti-inflammatory agents(6) reduce the swelling, inflammation, and the pain that accompanies tonsillitis. Further, it has the capacity to catalyze the production of antibiotic compounds(7), which can target the infection.
Materials Required
- A teaspoon of dried chamomile petals.
- A cup of hot water.
- Honey as per taste.
Process
- Add the chamomile tea leaves to the hot water and allow it to steep for about five to ten minutes.
- Strain the liquid and add honey to it.
- Drink it while it is still warm.
Frequency
Drink this beverage about two to three times daily.
2. Onion Juice
Onions can be found in virtually all kitchens, making it a medicinal food item that is highly accessible.
Why Does it Work?
The antibacterial properties(8) of onions address the root cause of tonsillitis – bacteria. Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties(9) that can reduce the swelling and inflammation caused due to tonsillitis.
Materials Required
- A large onion.
- A cup of water.
- Honey.
Process
- Peel and dice the onions in chunks.
- Blend the onion with water until it has the desired consistency.
- Consume the onion juice.
Frequency
Drink the juice periodically throughout the day and follow this routine daily.
3. Turmeric Milk
Turmeric is a golden spice, which has emerged as a highly reliable home remedy for several health problems.
Did You Know? India is the largest producer and exporter of turmeric!
Why Does it Work?
Consumption of warm milk can soothe the inflammation and pain caused by tonsillitis. Adding a dash of pepper (Piper nigrum) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) makes milk even more potent in treating tonsillitis as it contains antimicrobial, analgesic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Materials Required
- A cup of hot milk.
- A dash of turmeric.
Process
- Mix the turmeric in the milk.
- Drink the turmeric while it is hot.
NOTE: You could also add a dash of pepper to the milk.
Frequency
Do this daily every night before you go to bed.
4. Carrot, Cucumber, and Beetroot Juice
Consuming a drink that is loaded with the goodness of fresh vegetables can detoxify your body and also help with tonsillitis.
Why Does it Work?
The nutritional content of vegetables aids the body(10)’s fight against infections. The mixture of carrot, cucumber, and beetroot juice is a fairly common home remedy used to treat tonsillitis. The presence of vitamins A and C fight against inflammation(11) and trigger the production of antibodies.
Materials Required
- Three parts of carrot juice.
- One part cucumber juice.
- One part beetroot juice.
Process
- Mix and blend the three juices together.
- Drink the juice.
Frequency
Consume this beverage daily.
5. Pineapple Juice
The tarty, tropical flavors of pineapple can do a lot more than just tickle your tastebuds; it can help cure tonsillitis!
Did You Know? A single pineapple takes three years to mature!
Why Does it Work?
Pineapple is not only rich in Vitamin C, but it also contains an enzyme called bromelain. Vitamin C is well-known for boosting the body’s immune response and its ability to catalyze antibiotics production. Bromelain(12) possesses potent anti-inflammatory qualities, which reduce tonsillitis pain. Further, its antibacterial property combats infections. Collectively, all the compounds speed up recovery and help the body handle the infection.
Materials Required
- A quarter of a pineapple.
- A cup of water.
Process
- Blend the pineapple and water together to produce fresh juice.
- Drink the pineapple juice.
[Also Read: Natural Ways to Get Rid of Throat Infection]
Frequency
Consume the drink at least once daily.
CURE 3: Food for tonsillitis
Certain foods can help the body fight the infection and inflammation that accompanies tonsillitis. The following are a few perfect foods for tonsillitis pain relief.
1. Figs
Whether you eat them dry or fresh, sweet, and, juicy figs offer an array of health benefits.
Why Does it Work?
Figs possess a high concentration of phenolic compounds, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. As such, it can target internal and external pain and discomfort that comes with tonsillitis. Additionally, its antibacterial properties(13) can effectively target the root cause of tonsillitis.
Materials Required
- Two to three fresh figs.
- Water.
Process
- Place the figs in the water and bring it to a boil.
- Blend the boiled figs into a fine paste.
- Apply the paste externally over your throat.
- Let it sit for ten to fifteen minutes, then rinse it off.
NOTE: Alternatively, you could also consume fresh or dried figs.
Frequency
Apply the fig paste twice a day.
2. Yellow Mustard Seeds
Mustard is a yellow spice that is widely used in Indian, especially Bengali and Bihari, cuisines.
Did You Know? America uses the largest amount of mustard in the world!
Why Does it Work?
Mustard is a rich source of minerals such as selenium and magnesium, which offers anti-inflammatory effects. Yellow mustard also contains curcumin, a compound normally found in turmeric. The presence of such a bioactive element imparts analgesic and antimicrobial(14) properties to the body.
Materials Required
- A teaspoon of yellow mustard powder.
- A cup of warm water.
Process
- Stir in the mustard powder into the water.
- Gargle with this mixture.
Frequency
Gargle at least thrice a day with mustard-infused water.
3. Barley
Barley is a cereal grain that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and other vital plant-based nutrients.
Did You Know? Barley is the main ingredient of whiskey and beer.
Why Does it Work?
Barley is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds(15), which bring down the inflammation caused by tonsillitis. Additionally, the grain also possesses antimicrobial qualities, which help treat the infection.
Materials Required
- A cup of barley.
- A liter of water.
Process
- Add the barley to the water and heat it.
- Bring the water to a boil and allow it to simmer for five to ten minutes.
- Let the water cool.
- Drink the water at regular intervals.
NOTE: You could also make a paste of water and barley flour and apply it externally to your throat.
Frequency
Follow this regimen once or twice a day.
4. Yogurt
It is a common conception that curd may cause throat problems. However, it is highly effective in treating tonsillitis.
Did You Know? Americans consume more than 3,00,000 tons of yogurt every year!
Why Does it Work?
Yogurt contains probiotic properties, which help with treating tonsillitis. It not only brings down swelling(16) and inflammation but also boosts immunity. Studies have discovered that plain yogurt could help treat infections such as common cold or tonsillitis.
Materials Required
- A cup of plain yogurt.
Process
- Consume yogurt.
Frequency
Follow this remedy daily.
Preventive Measures
Just as much as it is vital to know how to cure tonsillitis, it is also important to understand how you can prevent it. Here are a few steps that you can take to prevent tonsillitis:
- Increase your water intake.
- Consume warm and healthy food items, like soups and broths.
- Eat probiotic-rich food items like yogurt.
- Use a humidifier to keep the air moist as it prevents sore throats.
- Do not come in direct contact with someone who suffers from strep throat or tonsillitis.
- Wash your hands often, and maintain proper standards of hygiene.
- Carry a hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing.
Follow the natural remedies given above to treat tonsillitis at homeHow To Treat Tonsillitis. Given that tonsillitis is extremely contagious quarantine the affected individual from others. In addition to warm soups and broths, cold ice creams and popsicles can also soothe the throat. If the condition keeps recurring, speak to your doctor regarding the surgical removal of your tonsils (Tonsillectomy). Do remember to stay hydrated and well-rested to boost recovery.
FAQs
The following are some of the frequently asked questions with regards to tonsillitis.
1. Is tonsillitis contagious?
Unfortunately, yes! Tonsillitis arising due to bacterial or viral infections is highly contagious and spreads through contact. Viral tonsillitis remains contagious for seven to ten days while bacterial tonsillitis could stay infectious for up to fourteen days!
2. Is tonsillitis viral?
Most cases of tonsillitis are caused due to viral infection and are caused by the same virus that causes the common cold or flu. However, tonsillitis can also be caused due to bacteria.
3. How to prevent tonsillitis?
A few helpful tips to prevent tonsillitis have been listed above.
5. How long does tonsillitis last?
Tonsillitis could last about four to seven days. However, it may also recur periodically.
