Tonsillitis – Ayurvedic Management & Home Remedies

Tonsils are a pair of soft tissue masses located at the back of the throat and they constitute a part of the lymphatic system and is responsible for fighting foreign pathogens inhaled or ingested. Tonsillitis condition is defined as the inflammation of tonsils in response to the invasion of bacteria or virus.
Ayurvedic Understanding of Tonsillitis
In Ayurveda, Tonsillitis is called as Tundikeri and all the 3 doshas viz. Vata, Pitta and Kapha are involved in the disease. Furthermore, exposure to cold environments, intake of cold foods and excessive talking can worsen the condition by aggravating Vata and Kapha doshas.
Triggering factors
Exposure to cold and moist climate, cold breeze, intake of cold and frozen foods such as ice creams, cold drinks and foods like curd triggers Tonsillitis. The disease is sometimes contagious, especially with the school going children. It’s most likely that the bacteria and viruses causing Tonsillitis easily spread among children while they spend time together.
Symptoms of Tonsillitis
Some of the common symptoms of the condition are –
1. Swelling inside the throat and redness causing pain
2. Difficulty in swallowing
3. Fever and chills
4. Sore throat
5. Loss of appetite
6. Bad breath
Ayurvedic way of treating Tonsillitis
In Ayurveda special herbs, medications, therapies and diet is suggested for the treatment of Tonsillitis. To prevent the condition from causing troubles further, Ayurveda also recommends an appropriate regimen and lifestyle to be followed.
Home Remedies for Tonsillitis
° Lemon: Lemon has notable anti- bacterial and anti- inflammatory properties. Drink lukewarm water added with lemon juice, a tea spoon of honey and a pinch of salt twice daily for a few days.
° Turmeric: Yet another substance rich in anti- inflammatory and anti- septic qualities, Turmeric is also an effective remedy for Tonsillitis. Add one teaspoon of turmeric and a pinch of black pepper to hot milk, drink it before sleep for a few days; it speeds up the healing process.
° Basil: Boil ½ a cup of water in 10-12 basil leaves for about 10 minutes, strain and add juice of one lemon and honey to it. Drink the preparation twice daily for 3 days.
Ayurvedic Tips
° Take enough rest and don’t strain your throat
° Drink only warm water and eat only warm food
° Gargle daily with a solution of common salt dissolved in half a glass of warm water
° Include black pepper in the diet
° Avoid day sleep for it causes kapha build up
° Do not eat very sour and spicy foods
° Stay away from milk and dairy products as they also increase Kapha