Swollen tonsils are one of the symptoms of tonsillitis caused by an infection in tonsils. These infections are either bacterial or viral such as streptococcal bacteria, which causes strep throat.
Swollen tonsils can be both uncomfortable and bothersome, often causing difficulty in swallowing, sore throat, and general discomfort. Tonsils are two small glands located at the back of the throat that play a role in the immune system.
When they become infected or inflamed, they can become swollen, leading to various symptoms. Fortunately, there are several remedies and prevention strategies to help alleviate swollen tonsils.
In this article, we will explore effective methods to get rid of swollen tonsils and prevent their recurrence.
Why Do We Have Tonsils?
Tonsils serve as the body’s first line of defense against virus and bacteria enter through nose or mouth. Tonsillitis is a condition of tonsils characterized by swollen tonsils and sore throat.
Why Does Tonsil Get Swollen?
When bacteria’s and viruses filtered by tonsils couldn’t be eradicated by body immunity causes infection to tonsils. Therefore, tonsils become plagued and become swollen or inflamed. Some people also get swollen tonsils with white spots, which are also painful and unsightly.
However, the swollen tonsils caused by the virus can only be cured by our immune system as antibiotics can’t treat them. But, you can also get better results with some home remedies.
These home remedies are just to soothe your pain and some of them can be used to fight bacteria and virus but cannot replace normal treatment suggested by doctors.
If your problem persists for more than 3-4 days and there are no signs of improvement, immediately concern your doctor.
5 Home Remedies To Treat Swollen Tonsils
1. Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root has been used by the Egyptians to ease a sore throat and dry coughs since ages. It has also been used by other civilisation since 2000 years as a medicine for multiple diseases.
It contains polysaccharides that have mucilaginous, antitussive and antibacterial properties. Because of these properties, it has a soothing effect on inflamed membranes in your throat when ingested orally.
According to UMMC, some research has found that marshmallow roots can help in soothing irritated mucous membranes.
How To Use Marshmallow Root?
- Take a cup of water and boil it.
- When water starts boiling, add two spoons of the dried root to it.
- Steep it for 3-4 minutes.
- Drink this tea 2-3 times a day.
2. Gargling With Salt Water
This is the most common and effective home remedy for swollen tonsil. Your mother or granny may have asked you to gargle with salt water whenever you had a sore throat or any throat problem. Some of you may not have even tried it once. Isn’t?
But, let me tell you that according to a report by the Student Health Services at the University of Connecticut, this common remedy can help soothe a sore throat and break down secretions. Gargling with salt water is also known to aid in killing bacteria in your throat.
According to a report by The University of Puget Sound, a salt water solution consisting of a half teaspoon of salt in a glass full of warm water can help in reducing swelling.
How To Prepare Salt Water Solution?
- Take a glass of water and boil it.
- Let it cool down for a minute so that it’s not too hot.
- Take a half teaspoon of salt and mix to the warm water.
- Start gargling, repeat the procedure 3-4 times a day.
3. Honey And Lemon
Honey has many health benefits and has been used as a home remedy to treat various health problems. According to some preliminary studies, honey may possess bacteria-fighting properties and can be used to cure swollen tonsils caused by bacterial or viral infections.
Lemon contains Vitamin C and antioxidants that boost your immune system. It contains citrus acid which breaks up the mucus causing sore throat and soothes your throat from the pain and inflammation.
How To Use Honey And Lemon?
- Boil a cup of water.
- Pour boiled water into the cup and add 2 teaspoons of honey with a teaspoon of lemon.
- Mix it well and drink twice a day to ease your pain in tonsils.
4. Slippery Elm
Slippery Elm has been traditionally used as a remedy for coughs, sore throat, constipation, diarrhea and many other common health problems.
According to a report by the University of Maryland Medical Center, the herb contains a mucilage substance that becomes a slick gel when mixed with water. This slick gel is known to coat and soothe your mouth, throat, stomach, and intestine.
How To Use Slipper Elm?
- Take two cups of water and boil it.
- When water starts boiling, add 4 g (approx. 2 tablespoons) of powdered bark of Slipper Elm.
- Steep it for nearly 5 minutes.
- Drink this tea thrice a day.
5. Licorice or Liquorice Root
Licorice root has been used as a medicine or as food flavor since 1000 years. It’s also called sweet root and has been used to treat a number of health problems, ranging from the common cold to liver disease.
According to a 2009 study, Licorice root is effective in treating sore throat and also diminished coughing after surgery.
How To Use Licorice Root?
- Boil a cup of water and add a pinch or two of licorice powder.
- Let it cool down for a minute so that it’s not too hot.
- Gargle with the mixture twice a day.
Additional Tips To Avoid Swollen Tonsils
- Don’t smoke cigarettes while your throat is sore and also avoid second-hand smoke.
- Don’t use the toothbrush you used while your throat was actively sore to prevent recurrence of swollen tonsils.
- Don’t go to school, college or office during the course of any swollen tonsil episode. The bacterial or viral infection is contagious and can infect persons around you.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While most cases of swollen tonsils can be managed at home, it’s important to seek medical attention if:
- Swollen tonsils persist for more than a week
- The swelling is severe, affecting breathing or swallowing
- There is excessive drooling or difficulty opening the mouth
- The individual experiences high fever, severe headache, or neck stiffness.
Final Words
Swollen tonsils can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. By implementing these remedies and prevention strategies, you can effectively manage and alleviate the symptoms of swollen tonsils. I hope these home remedies for swollen tonsils prove beneficial to you.
However, if the condition persists or worsens, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, maintaining good overall health and a strong immune system is key to preventing recurring episodes of swollen tonsils.
If any of the above-mentioned home remedies worked for you, then don’t forget to share your experience with other readers in the comments below.
Don’t forget to share it with your buddies so that they can cure their problem at home.
I had a sore swollen tonsils and I couldn’t eat for three days. I also had a shooting pain going down my neck, and a fever for the first three days.