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10 Natural Home Remedies For Swollen Lymph Nodes (Love #5!)
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If you have ever had an infection, then you have probably had swollen lymph nodes. We have lymph nodes all over our bodies, but most notably in our neck (directly under the jaw), the armpits, the groin, near the ears, and other parts of the body.
Lymph nodes (sometimes called lymph glands) are an important part of the immune system of the body that fights against bacteria, viruses, and even cancer cells. When you have an infection, your lymph nodes attempt to isolate the virus or bacteria and remove it from the body. This is why lymph nodes sometimes swell up, become inflamed or painful, or tender to the touch. Symptoms that often accompany swollen lymph nodes are fever, runny nose, sore throat, and sweating or chills.
Most times a swollen lymph node is a good sign that your immune system is working properly and removing the problem. You can help your lymph nodes do their job better by following some of the home remedies listed here.
Keep reading and find out the best remedies for assisting your body in removing the threat as well as to make yourself more comfortable and heal faster.
1. Peppermint
This herb has powerful anti-viral compounds, such as menthol, which can help to reduce swelling of the lymph nodes and assist with the removal of toxins and viruses from the body. You can chew fresh mint leaves, squeeze the juice from the leaves and mix with some water to drink, or drink peppermint tea. Whichever method works best for you is the right one, and you should do it several times each day.
2. Castor Oil
The nasty stuff that your grandmother gave you was for a good reason! Castor oil is simply amazing when it comes to your health. It kills parasites, treats acne, helps hair grow faster, stops constipation, treats wrinkles, and stops joint pain. It also can reduce the painful swelling of lymph nodes. Rub some castor oil on the swollen gland and cover with a hot cloth, heating pad, or a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel. You should see improvement within 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Turmeric
One of the oldest medicinal remedies known to mankind, turmeric is a super anti-inflammatory and analgesic spice that can work wonders. With its powerful antioxidants, turmeric makes a terrific anti-viral solution that can help the lymph nodes to remove bacteria and viruses, which will reduce swelling. Mix one tablespoon of turmeric powder in one glass of warm milk and drink once each day. Repeat daily.
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4. Echinacea
This is one of the most commonly used immune-boosting herbs in the world. This flowering herb acts like an antibiotic and is so powerful that it is even used in the pharmaceutical industry. Native to North America, the indigenous American people have used this herb for hundreds of years for sore throats, respiratory infections, and all types of breathing problems. Echinacea is one of the best herbs for fighting viruses and bacteria. Drinking a tea from Echinacea is a great way to reduce swollen lymph nodes and strengthen the immune system, which will help remove the foreign invader from the body.
5. Honey
Wow, talk about a sweet way to feel better fast! Honey has powerful antibacterial and anti-viral compounds that can offer some serious back-up for your immune system. You can simply swallow a tablespoon of raw, organic honey two or three times each day, or mix the honey in some lemon tea and drink two or three cups each day. You should get almost immediate relief from the pain and swelling of the lymph nodes, and other symptoms, such as a runny nose or sore throat, should disappear in three to five days. Be sure the honey that you are using is raw and organic, and not the junk they sell in the supermarkets. If you can find Manuka honey, that’s better still. Manuka honey is hands-down the most powerful type of honey available.
6. Spirulina
It might sound strange that algae could help your body, but spirulina is high in protein, antioxidants, and B vitamins, and other things that are simply perfect for your good health. This is perhaps one of the strongest ways that you can naturally reduce the swelling of lymph nodes. Spirulina has powerful anti-inflammatory agents, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce swollen lymph nodes and help remove bacteria and viruses more easily. Choose organic spirulina, and add some to your morning smoothies. Spirulina is also available in a supplement form, but please speak to your doctor about the proper dosage for your condition.
7. Garlic
Garlic is the king of herbs when it comes to swollen lymph nodes. Garlic has strong anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supporting compounds that can go a long way toward ridding the body of the invader, as well as reducing the load on the lymph system. Slightly crush one or two organic cloves of garlic and swallow them whole. You can add them to some honey if it makes it easier to swallow these strong-tasting herbs. Eating garlic daily can keep you free from most viruses and help your immune system stay strong.
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8. Cleavers
This is a little known herb that stimulates almost every organ in the body, including the lymph system. Cleavers will also purify the blood and cleanse the body of toxins. This herb will help to relieve your swollen lymph nodes as well as rid the body of bacteria and viruses that are the underlying cause of most swollen lymph node problems. Drink cleaver tea twice each day until you get relief from your symptoms.
SEE ALSO: Top 10 Tips for Cleaning Your Lymphatic System
9. Lemon
One of the most underrated fruits on the planet, lemon can help heal sore throats, kill bacteria, and heal the mucus membranes in the throat and mouth. Inexpensive and found in every supermarket, lemons are a great way to relieve the pain and swelling of lymph nodes. Mix the juice from one organic lemon in one glass of water and drink twice each day. You can add a tablespoon of raw, organic honey if the taste is too sour for you. If you would rather eat the lemon whole, that also works — just be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward to avoid acid damage to your teeth.
10. Apple Cider Vinegar
This is one of the simplest ways to reduce swollen lymph nodes. Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial compounds that are hard to beat, and they stop the problem at the source. Mix one teaspoon of honey and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in one glass of water and drink twice each day to relieve inflammation and pain.
Any of the above treatments will work best when taken at the very first sign of a cold, flu, or the first time you notice pain or swelling of the lymph nodes. If you are taking any prescription medications, if you are under a doctor’s care, or if you are pregnant, always consult your doctor before consuming any herbs to ensure that there are no drug interactions, harmful side effects, and for the protection of your unborn child.
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