Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are paired, oval-shaped structures located at the back of your throat. Viral or bacterial infections are the principle causes of tonsillitis, which is a common childhood ailment, although it can also affect adults. Consider natural treatments for your tonsillitis, such as herbal remedies, but always check with your physician to see if natural treatments are appropriate for you and your condition.
Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of your palatine tonsils. Symptoms associated with tonsillitis include sore throat, swallowing difficulties, hoarseness, coughing and redness, and pain and swelling of your palatine tonsils. Less common symptoms of tonsillitis include headache, earache, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, nasal obstruction and discharge, and enlarged lymph nodes throughout your body. Some people experience repeated episodes of tonsillitis, and it can become a chronic, or long-term, condition. Tonsillitis becomes more difficult to treat as the number of episodes you experience increases.
Useful Herbal Remedies
According to master herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," a combination of the following herbs may be best for treating enlarged tonsils associated with tonsillitis: echinacea root, propolis resin, hyssop leaf and flower, sage leaf and St. John's wort flower and bud. Other useful herbal remedies for easing tonsillitis symptoms include catnip, chamomile, elderflower, peppermint, yarrow, flaxseed oil, marshmallow, mullein, pau d'arco, goldenseal extract and thyme.
An Effective Herb
Thyme is one of the most effective herbs for tonsillitis. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," thyme reduces fever, headaches and mucus production. This herbal remedy also helps treat chronic respiratory conditions -- such as bronchitis and croup -- and sore throat. Thyme possesses strong antiseptic properties and may help lower your cholesterol levels. The berries, flowers and leaves of the thyme plant are used medicinally.
Warning
If you or your child has tonsillitis, you should seek immediate assistance from a qualified health care professional. If your tonsillitis is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria and is not treated appropriately, you may develop serious health complications such as rheumatic fever and a kidney disorder called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Herbal remedies, although usually safe and helpful, are intended to be used in conjunction with other therapies recommended by your doctor.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Tonsillitis
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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