See a doctor if: High fever, drooling or difficulty breathing/swallowing, one-sided severe swelling (possible abscess), rash, or symptoms beyond 3-4 days — see a doctor for a throat check
Kitchen remedies
Warm salt-water gargles; warm turmeric milk; honey-ginger; plenty of warm fluids; soft foods; rest and voice rest; steam inhalation
Featured herbs
Yashtimadhu/Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Vasa/Adulsa (Justicia adhatoda) [traditional respiratory], Sitopaladi churna (classical throat blend), Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
How to prepare
Warm salt-water gargle several times a day. Mulethi stick or Sitopaladi with honey soothes the throat. Turmeric-milk at night. Vasa infusion traditionally for throat inflammation.
Cautions
Licorice: avoid in hypertension/pregnancy, limit to under a week. Bacterial (strep) tonsillitis may need antibiotics — herbs are supportive only.
Related remedies
Common Cold & Nasal CongestionDry & Wet CoughSore ThroatLow Immunity / Frequent InfectionsSeasonal Allergies / RhinitisMild Fever & Body AcheNasal & Sinus CongestionBronchitis / Chest Congestion (supportive)
When to see a doctor. Home remedies are for minor, self-limiting complaints in adults. They are not a substitute for medical care, and herbs can interact with medicines. Not for children under the ages stated, in pregnancy, or with chronic conditions without a doctor's advice.
