Tonsillitis is an infection that can strike any time of the year but especially during flu season. The term refers to an inflammation of the tonsils, the two oval-shaped glands that sit at the back of your throat.

Your tonsils stop harmful microbes from entering your body through your nose or mouth. But they themselves can get infected in the process, causing symptoms like sore throat and fever.

Luckily, there are many natural remedies that offer relief from tonsillitis. These remedies include:

1. Fresh fruit smoothies

Even though its symptoms usually disappear within a week or so, tonsillitis can be unbearable for some since it causes pain when you swallow. You’ll likely have a harder time eating as well.

The solution? Drink fresh fruit smoothies. While swallowing will be painful, smoothies can help soothe the pain in your throat. You can also stay full for longer if you drink fresh fruit smoothies because they’re loaded with fiber.

2. Warm herbal teas

The last thing you probably want going down your throat when you have tonsillitis is hot liquid. However, most of the herbs and spices typically used to make tea have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. You’ll want to consume foods and drinks with such properties to get rid of tonsillitis fast.

The best herbal teas for tonsillitis include licorice root, chamomile, turmeric and green tea. Make sure to go for a warm — not boiling-hot! — cup of tea to avoid irritating your throat further.

3. Fresh fruits

Fruits are naturally rich in vitamins and minerals that support your immune health for faster recovery. Lots of phytochemicals in fruits also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Just make sure to avoid acidic fruits like oranges, grapefruits and tomatoes as eating these fruits can worsen your symptoms.

4. Ginger and honey

Ginger is one of the most powerful natural remedies for tonsillitis. Its vitamin C content can boost your immunity to speed up the healing process, while antioxidants like flavonoids and beta-carotene can help reduce inflammation.

Ginger is usually mixed with raw honey to create a powerful tonic for tonsillitis. Raw honey supports healing. It also has antimicrobial properties. To treat tonsillitis, brew freshly grated ginger and add a teaspoon of honey. Leave it to cool slightly before drinking.

5. Soup

A warm bowl of chicken or vegetable soup may just be your ticket to wellness. Soup can provide relief for sore throat while also helping to keep you hydrated. The protein in chicken soup can also help boost your immunity since they provide amino acids that your body can use to make antibodies.

For best results, fill your soup with nutritious vegetables, herbs and spices. These foods contain antioxidants that combat inflammation and promote healing.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is an aromatic golden spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is hailed for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which it owes to a compound called curcumin.

However, curcumin isn’t readily absorbed by the body. According to research, it’s best to take turmeric with ground black pepper to improve your absorption of curcumin. You can blend turmeric into smoothies, add a teaspoon to soups or stir it into your salad bowls for a healthy (and colorful) boost.

7. Sage

Sage, a kitchen staple and popular Mediterranean herb, is loaded with antioxidants that can help relieve a sore throat. Sage can also help eliminate the virus or bacteria responsible for tonsillitis because it has powerful antimicrobial properties.

To treat tonsillitis, steep a tablespoon of fresh or dried sage leaves in a cup of hot water. Keep it covered for about five minutes. Strain and let cool slightly before drinking.

Although painful, tonsillitis goes away on its own after a few days. But you can speed things up a little by using some of the natural remedies listed above.

Sources:

AskDrShah.com

Healthline.com