Tonsillitis is inflammation of the palatine tonsils, most often due to infection. Tonsillitis corresponds to Tundikeri in Ayurveda, mainly due to aggravated Kapha and Pitta in the throat, often following indulgence in cold, oily, heavy, or sour foods and exposure to cold.
Causes and Risk Factors Viral infections (adenovirus, rhinovirus, influenza, Epstein-Barr virus) are the most common cause. Bacterial infection, especially Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus Common in school-age children and adolescents Exposure to cold drinks, dust, pollution, or infected contacts Poor oral hygiene, low immunity, and untreated earlier throat infections Symptoms Sore throat with pain on swallowing. Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white or yellow patches. Fever, chills, and general weakness. Tender swollen neck glands. Bad breath, hoarse voice, and earache (referred pain). Headache and reduced appetite .
Ayurvedic Management and Benefits Salt and turmeric warm water gargles reduce swelling, pain, and infection. Triphala decoction gargle has astringent and antimicrobial action and cleanses the throat. Yashtimadhu (licorice) soothes throat inflammation and relieves irritation and cough. Haridra (turmeric) with warm milk acts as an anti-inflammatory and supports immunity. Tulsi, ginger, and black pepper kadha relieves congestion, fever, and sore throat. Sitopaladi churna with honey eases cough and throat discomfort. with some ayurvedic drugs
Diet and Lifestyle (Pathya)
- Favour from warm water, light and easily digestible foods, soups, ginger, turmeric, and pepper.
- Avoid cold drinks, ice cream, curd at night, fried, oily, or sour foods, and exposure to cold air or dust.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Rest and plenty of warm fluids.
- Warm saline gargles several times a day.
