Before we learn about the homemade remedy for Tonsillitis, let us first understand the problem.
There are two oval-shaped glands called tonsils that sit at the back of our throat, and their primary purpose is to fight off viruses and bacteria that enter the body through the mouth and nose.
When they become inflamed, we then say one has Tonsillitis. Viruses are the leading cause of Tonsillitis, although bacteria play a role too in inflammation in about 15-30% of cases.
Tonsillitis can affect everyone, but children are the main culprits.
Signs and symptoms of Tonsilitis
- Pain in the throat when swallowing
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Hoarse voice
- Bad breath
- Ear pain
- Stiff neck
- Chills
If Tonsillitis results from a virus, usually, it is a mild case and doesn’t necessarily require treatment. In this case, some homemade remedies that I will expound on in this article heal them. On the other hand, if the Tonsillitis is severe and a result of a bacterial infection, antibiotics, and painkillers like ibuprofen helps relieve inflammation and pain. However, in the worst case, tonsillectomy is ultimately done.
Tonsillectomy is a surgery to remove tonsils, usually recommended when the symptoms don’t improve or Tonsillitis causes complications.
What Causes Tonsillitis?
- Air pollution
- Alcohol
- Smoking secondhand smoke
- Acidic foods or drinks
- Dry foods
- Spicy foods
- Dry air
- Allergies to substances such as pollen and mold
Is Tonsillitis Contagious?
Tonsillitis is highly contagious, especially within 24 – 48 hours before developing symptoms. The germs causing Tonsillitis are spread through inhaling respiratory droplets that are generated when coughing and sneezing. Sometimes, one remains contagious as long as the symptoms persist.
5 Key Ingredients for an Effective Homemade Remedy
1. Gargling with salt water
Gargling with salt water helps soothe a sore throat and the pain caused by Tonsillitis and can also help treat infections. Dissolve salt in a glass of water, gargle, swish through the mouth, and spit out. Doing this at least twice a day helps a lot.
2. Garlic
Garlic is a proven natural antibiotic that is effective against bacteria and viruses. It’s one of the most effective homemade remedies against Tonsillitis, and I highly recommend it as a homemade remedy.
3. Ginger
Ginger is known to help block the proteins that cause inflammatory pain and itchiness. It is also known to have antioxidant properties and helps boost immunity, and ultimately help the body fight off Tonsillitis.
4. Cloves
Cloves contain phenolic compounds, which are anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. They alleviate the pain caused by Tonsillitis and relieve sore throat.
5. Honey
Raw, unadulterated honey has strong antibacterial properties, which can help treat the infections that result in Tonsillitis.
I like taking warm tea with all these ingredients; ginger, garlic, cloves, and honey. My children like to call it “Dawa kali” meaning bitter medicine. I can attest that it is effective and easily made at home.
Feel free to reach us at [email protected] for more practical homemade remedies, and let’s walk this health journey with you.
Wanjiku Gachoka is a seasoned nutritionist with over ten years of experience. Her passion for educating communities on matters related to diet and nutrition has been the driving force behind her work.
Her main goal is to promote health and wellness while advocating for zero hunger.
Her approach to nutrition is grounded in making informed decisions, and she believes knowledge is power.
