At least once in your life, you may have experienced inflammation of your tonsils, called tonsillitis. Tonsils are the glands found at the back of the side of the throat that looks bulbous. The gland has unclear purpose. Yet human anatomical research found out that they are part of the immune system as a first defense against invading microorganisms of the human body.

Considering that the mouth is one of the body’s major openings and it receives various types of invading elements that may be harmful to the body, it therefore needs a defense system to protect the person from the infections that may result. The tonsils serve as one of the body’s sentinels. If disease-causing microorganisms enter the body through the mouth or nose, the tonsils will fight these microorganisms like the guards patrolling the buildings. Yet there are instances when the tonsils are overpowered by these microorganisms, especially the viruses and because the tonsils are rendered ineffective, it will become inflamed, resulting to tonsillitis.

Although tonsillitis will disappear within 4 to 10 days, the symptoms experienced are never comfortable. Because it is an infection that causes the throat to become swollen, red and pus-filled, it also results to fever. If virus is the reason for the tonsillitis, added symptoms are similar to having a common cold – coughing, sneezing and runny or stuffy nose. A person can survive without treatment of tonsillitis, unless if it is recurring, which requires removal of the tonsils. But because it is uncomfortable, there are various natural remedies that may be used to lessen the discomfort resulting from the symptoms.

• Chamomile Tea

  Through chamomile tea, discomfort brought about by the inflammation of the tonsils can be removed temporarily. Chamomile tea has a natural analgesic effect. When taken every few hours, not only will fever due to the infection is relieved, dehydration will also be prevented. Chamomile tea is not just effective in treating tonsillitis; it is also good for other diseases related to tonsillitis, such as strep throat and common sore throat.

• Fenugreek Seeds

  Fenugreek seeds are popular in traditional Chinese medicine. This type of seed from the fenugreek herb is used widely to help alleviate the pain experienced during tonsillitis. As a remedy for tonsillitis, the fenugreek seeds are allowed to simmer in hot water for about half an hour. The water is then set aside and allowed to cool. The fenugreek water is then used for gargling. There are several claims that this decoction is effective in relieving tonsillitis.

• Figs

  Figs are useful for tonsils when applied externally at the area of the throat. Boiled figs are made into a paste and then applied on the area. This will help soothe the discomfort brought about by the inflammation. But figs may also be boiled, mashed and taken orally with honey. Several people claimed that this method has reduced the symptoms they felt from tonsillitis.

• Ginger

  If the reason for tonsillitis is a virus infection, ginger is one of the best remedies. A teaspoon of ginger juice is mixed with a teaspoon of honey and two teaspoons of warm water. This solution is then regularly used for gargling. Ginger juice combined with honey and lemon is also great for drinking. With regular drinking, tonsillitis will be effectively treated. Ginger, together with garlic and onions, contain sulfur that is effective in reducing infection in the upper respiratory tract and it can help in improving the ability of the immune system to fight off infection.

• Lime

  Lime and its citrus cousins are probably the most common remedy for symptoms of tonsillitis. Lime has been known to ease the pain and itchiness felt with tonsillitis. Limes are rich in Vitamin C, which can enhance the function of one’s immune system as it is one of the best antioxidants found in nature. Together with the citrus family, limes in general have an antibacterial effect. To use lime as a remedy for tonsillitis, squeeze fresh juice of the lime fruit into medium heat water; the proportion may vary but usually, half a slice of lime into a mug of water will do. Add honey and salt, according to your taste. Take this at least three times daily. Several people revealed that with this continuous regimen, tonsillitis is healed after three days.

• Salt Water

  For centuries, salt water must be the common solution for inflammation of the tonsils. Other suggestion includes the addition of alum salts in the water, which has an anti-inflammatory effect. The usual proportion is that for standard cup of water, add 1 teaspoon of salt. Those who are affected with the disease gargles the solution regularly every few hours. Eventually, tonsillitis is relieved by the method as well as arrest the growth of other tonsil stones, or tonsiliths.

• Turmeric

  Turmeric is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. As an anti-inflammatory, the symptoms experienced such as pain and fever, are relieved. As an antibacterial, turmeric is effective especially when the cause of the tonsillitis is bacterial infection. To use turmeric, a teaspoon of turmeric juice is mixed with a tablespoon of honey. By taking a spoonful orally, the throat is soothed. Another method popular to many is by mixing turmeric powder with a cup of mildly heated milk. Drinking the mixture regularly will help soothe the pain as well as warm the tonsils.

• Vegetable Juices

  Vegetables are rich in necessary nutrients than can help in treating tonsillitis. Any type of vegetable, however it is prepared, is rich in natural antioxidants, such as Vitamin C. There are several literatures suggesting that people with tonsillitis who are into a vegetable juice fast are healed from the condition in lesser time. The suggested combination of vegetables is carrots, beets and cucumber. The recommended proportion is 3 cups carrots to 1 cup beets to 1 cup cucumber. Carrots are highly recommended in tonsillitis as it has shown that it can actually cure the condition. Carrots can also relieve the pain in the throat brought about by the inflammation. Carrots, beets and cucumber can also be taken separately. By taking the juice daily, tonsillitis will be cured in due time.

Sources
ehow.com
healthguidance.org
askanaturopath.com
essortment.com