Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils at the back of the throat. It is a common childhood illness, but teenagers and adults can get it too. While viral infections that cause tonsillitis pass on their own, bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Treatment may also focus on relieving the symptoms of tonsillitis, such as using NSAIDs like ibuprofen to relieve inflammation and pain. There are several home remedies that can effectively treat or reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis. Here are some of them:

• Salt water gargling: Gargling and rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and pain caused by tonsillitis. It can also reduce inflammation and may even help to treat infections. Stir about ½ teaspoon of salt in about 4 ounces of warm water. Gargle and swish through the mouth for several seconds and then spit it out. You can rinse with regular water.

• Warm tea with raw honey: Warm beverages like tea can help to reduce discomfort that can occur as a result of tonsillitis. Raw honey, often added to tea, has antibacterial properties and can help soothe the throat. Drink tea warm instead of hot, and stir in the honey until dissolved. Certain teas may strengthen the benefits of this home remedy.

• Popsicles and ice chips: Cold can be highly effective in treating pain, inflammation, and swelling that often comes with tonsillitis. Popsicles, frozen drinks like ICEEs, and frozen foods like ice cream can be particularly helpful to young children who can’t use other home remedies safely. Older children and adults can also suck on ice chips.

• Humidifiers: Humidifiers can help to relieve the sore throat if the air is dry, or you’re experiencing dry mouth as a result of the tonsillitis. Dry air can irritate the throat, and a humidifier adds moisture to the air and can make breathing more comfortable. Cool-mist humidifiers tend to work best for people with tonsillitis. If you don’t have a humidifier, try a hot shower instead – inhaling the warm steam can open up your airway so it’s easier to breathe.

• Drinking plenty of warm liquids: Drinking warm liquids, including soups, broths, and teas, can help soothe a sore throat. Herbal teas containing ingredients such as honey, pectin, or glycerine may help, as these ingredients form a protective film over the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, which might soothe irritation. However, there is only weak evidence that herbal teas help treat the symptoms of tonsillitis.

• Eating cold foods: Cold, soft foods numb the throat, providing relief from pain. Ice cream, frozen yogurt, Popsicles, and smoothies can all help do the trick. Hard, sharp foods can scratch and irritate the throat, worsening irritation. Stay away from foods such as pot...