10 Home Remedies For Tonsillitis
The tonsils, which are located at the back of the mouth, help to filter out pathogens and prevent infection. Unfortunately, though, they can become overwhelmed and become infected themselves. This results in a very sore condition that we know as tonsillitis.
Tonsillitis is a common illness and it should pass within a few days or so. It is often treated with antibiotics, while medication for the discomfort is also often prescribed.
If you would rather not use medication, or if you simply wish to accelerate recovery, you can also try some home remedies. Below are just a few of the home remedies that may be able to help soothe your tonsillitis.
Home Remedy #1: Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice that is taken from trees that belong to the Cinnamomum family. The spice is made from the tree’s bark and is a popular addition to a wide range of dishes. While it is popular for the flavor that it gives, it is often used to help give a pleasant aroma to dishes.
In addition to helping add something extra to meals, cinnamon is also sometimes used in home remedies, including for tonsillitis. The spice is able to help combat bacteria and other pathogens, while also helping to reduce inflammation and pain. To use it, take a glass of hot water and add a teaspoon of cinnamon.
Home Remedy #2: Basil
Basil is a type of herb that is found growing naturally in tropical regions in Southeast Asia and Africa. It has a strong flavor and aroma, making it a popular addition to many meals. It is usually used as an ingredient while it is also sometimes used as a condiment.
Basil also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it suitable for use in some home remedies. If you have tonsillitis, it could be just what you need. To use basil as a remedy, take 1.5 cups of water, add 10 to 12 basil leaves, and boil for 20 minutes or so.
Home Remedy #3: Mint
Mint is perhaps best known for its incredible, fresh aroma. As such, it is often used in breath freshening products and similar, although it is also used sometimes in various dishes. It belongs in the same family as basil, and also has some properties that mean it can be used as a remedy.
It has been shown that mint has antimicrobial properties, meaning it can be useful in the fight against bacteria and viruses. This, along with its ability to soothe, makes it a suitable remedy for tonsillitis. Take a glass of boiled water and add a handful of mint leaves. Continue boiling the water until the volume has reduced by half. Strain the solution and then drink it up.
Home Remedy #4: Salt Water
Saltwater is a natural antiseptic. It is often used in scenarios where medical equipment is basic as it helps to sterilize equipment in the absence of better alternatives. It can also be used to help deal with bacteria or viruses in the body, meaning it can be used to help deal with tonsillitis.
To make a remedy, simply take a cup of warm water and mix in a teaspoon of salt. Don’t drink the solution, but gargle with it instead, making sure you spit it out afterward instead of swallowing. The salt will help to kill any pathogens in the area of the tonsils, while the warm water will also be soothing.
Home Remedy #5: Carom Seeds
Carom seeds are actually a type of very small fruit that comes from the carom plant. The plant is also known as ajwain, bishop’s weed, and ajowan caraway. It is sometimes found in South Asian dishes, while it is often used for medicinal purposes.
Carom seeds are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. These can give the immune system a boost, potentially helping to combat problems such as tonsillitis. First, gently heat a quarter teaspoon of carom seeds until they are lightly browned. Then, add one cup of water and a pinch of turmeric if you so wish. Drink this twice a day and the tonsillitis should hopefully begin to subside.
Home Remedy #6: Lemon
Just a drop of fresh lemon juice on the tongue is enough to let anybody know why the fruit is not usually eaten as it is. It has a very sour flavor that can lead to contortions of the face, but it is still sometimes used in recipes to help add a bit of a kick. It can also help to provide a kick to some home remedies.
Squeeze the juice from one lemon and add it to a glass of warm water. Some honey and a little salt can also be added if you prefer. Drink this solution for a couple of days or so. For something more direct, take a slice of fresh lemon and add a little salt and pepper. Suck on the lemon slice, repeating this process two to three times a day over a few days.
Home Remedy #7: Fenugreek
Fenugreek is a plant that has been used for culinary purposes since ancient times. The ancient Romans used it to add flavor to wine, while discoveries also suggest it was used in Iraq around 4,000 years ago. It is sometimes used in Asian cuisines today.
Fenugreek also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can be useful for dealing with tonsillitis. Its antibacterial properties can also help to deal with the cause of the tonsillitis. To make a remedy, take 3 cups of water, add 2 tablespoons of fenugreek, and simmer for around 30 minutes. Use this solution to gargle with twice a day until the tonsillitis is cured.
Home Remedy #8: Turmeric
Turmeric is in the same family as ginger. As with ginger, it is the root of the plant that is used. It is a fairly common ingredient in curries and other Asian dishes, while it has also found popularity in cuisines elsewhere in the world. In addition to being used as an ingredient, it is also sometimes used as a remedy.
To use it as a remedy for tonsillitis, take a glass of hot water and add one teaspoon of turmeric. Gargle this solution several times a day until the tonsillitis has been cured. The solution will help to relieve the swelling and the pain that comes with tonsillitis.
Home Remedy #9: Figs
Figs are the fruit of a flowering plant that has the same name and is a member of the mulberry family. It has been popular since ancient times both as a type of food and as an ornamental plant. They were one of the first plants ever to be cultivated by mankind and they are still popular today.
In addition to tasting great, figs also have a high mucilage content. This is a substance that is found excreted by plants and can be useful in helping conditions such as tonsillitis. To use them as a remedy, boil three dried figs before mashing them. Eat these three times a day, adding a tablespoon of honey if you like.
Home Remedy #10: Slippery Elm
The slippery elm is a species of tree that is found living naturally in North America. It has also been introduced to parts of Europe and Australasia for its ornamental appearance. As well as simply looking great, products extracted from the tree can also be used to make remedies for various ailments.
Slippery elm is a good source of mucilage, which can be beneficial when it comes to dealing with tonsillitis. It is able to help relieve inflammation and also soothe a sore throat. To use it as a remedy, take two cups of boiling water and add one teaspoon of inner slippery elm bark. Drink this twice a day for two days.