Tonsillitis causes swollen tonsils, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and coughing, often from bacterial or viral infections. Besides medication, patients can use natural methods to ease symptoms and aid recovery.

Honey soothes the throat due to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, inhibiting bacteria that cause tonsillitis. Patients can take one to two spoonfuls before bed or mix it into warm tea. Children under one year old should not consume honey.

Chamomile tea soothes the throat, reducing pain and hoarseness through its lubricating compounds and antioxidant properties, supporting recovery. Those suffering from tonsillitis pain can drink the tea or inhale its steam when swallowing is difficult.

Chicken soup is a warm, comforting, non-irritating beverage that aids recovery. Chicken, rich in protein, helps boost resistance and immune health. It should be seasoned lightly when suffering from tonsillitis to avoid irritating spices. Ingredients like carrots, turmeric, onions, and garlic can be added for their antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Ginger root contains gingerol and shogaol compounds (anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving) and essential oils (zingiberene, sesquiphellandrene) that can soothe sore throats from tonsillitis. Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can block certain proteins in the body that cause inflammatory responses, thereby reducing pain and itchiness.

Peppermint has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects, helping to temporarily relieve sore throat and inflammation. Patients can inhale peppermint oil vapor, suck on lozenges, or sip a warm cup of peppermint tea.

Gargling with salt water is a simple way to reduce residual bacteria at the back of the throat and soothe the area. Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of salt in 240 ml of warm water. Swish a mouthful of the mixture, gargle, then spit it out, repeating two to three times daily. Saline solution from pharmacies is recommended to ensure proper concentration and effectiveness.

Adequate sleep is crucial for body recovery and boosting the immune system during tonsillitis. Patients should sleep 7-8 hours per night to help the body increase immune cells and fight infection. Maintaining a quiet, cool sleep environment with limited light and noise facilitates deep sleep. Incorporating relaxation breathing techniques can reduce stress, helping the body recover faster. Sufficient and quality sleep can reduce inflammation and sore throat while enhancing the effectiveness of other treatments.

Avoid speaking loudly or excessively to reduce pressure on the throat and vocal cords. Resting the voice until full recovery helps prevent irritation and aids tonsil healing.

Drinking enough fluids can reduce symptoms and help the body eliminate infection during tonsillitis. Warm, soothing liquids like tea, soup, broth, or plain water with lemon, and sports drinks are recommended to maintain electrolyte balance.

Anh Chi (According to Very Well Health)