Much like tonsils, adenoids are particularly vulnerable glands as these organs are members of the constantly functioning lymphatic system. However, most people know very little about the adenoids until there is a problem – either from infection, inflammation, or both. If your child is having trouble with his or her adenoids, though, there are alternative treatment options. Many children respond well to natural cures for enlarged adenoids such as cod liver oil, garlic, and Echinacea.
What Are Adenoids?
The adenoids are located high in the mouth, behind the nose and the roof of the mouth. Adenoids play a role in filtering lymphatic flow and trapping germs that pass through the nose and mouth. Adenoids also produce antibodies that help fight infection. Unlike tonsils, though, your child’s adenoids are not visible when he or she opens his or her mouth, so it is often more difficult to determine when your child is experiencing an issue related to the adenoids. In any case, your child’s adenoids are important for helping him or her maintain health at a young age but become much less important as he or she ages.
What Happens When the Adenoids Are Enlarged?
While some children are simply born with larger adenoids than others, most often the cause of enlarged adenoids is infection and inflammation. While your child’s adenoids help filter out germs, these organs can become inundated by bacteria and actually become infected. As the adenoids become infected, they get inflamed and swollen, causing a condition known as adenoiditis.
Depending on the severity of your child’s condition, he or she may exhibit different symptoms. A few of the most common symptoms of adenoiditis include sore throat, stuffy nose, swollen glands, ear pain, and even ear infection. Additional symptoms include breathing through the mouth, speaking with a nasally sound, difficulty sleeping, snoring, and even sleep apnea.
Are There Any Remedies for Enlarged Adenoids Besides Surgery?
Consulting your doctor is an important first step if you suspect your child is having issues with his or her adenoids. You doctor can examine the adenoids and determine if they are infected and what may be causing the enlargement. In many cases, medication or even surgery are suggested for treatment; however, there are actually several natural remedies that help reduce the size of the adenoids. Treatments such as cod liver oil, garlic, and Echinacea serve as additional support to traditional treatments and can even be used as a “first line of defense” to forgo more aggressive treatment options.
1. Cod Liver Oil
Cold liver oil contains an important complex of nutrients including selenium. These nutrients support effective lymphatic flow and reduce infection. The essential fats in the oil also help reduce inflammation. Look for a cod liver oil supplement for kids over 12 or liquid for those under as they will absorb it better in liquid form.
2. Garlic
Garlic contains a number of important compounds, including allicin. These compounds work together to make garlic an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compound. As such, garlic helps reduce inflammation and infection in the adenoids. Try giving your child 1-2 smashed cloves of garlic mixed with lemon juice and honey.
3. Echinacea
Echinacea is a natural immune support. When you give your child Echinacea it helps boost the immune system and cleanse the lymphatic system, which in turns eliminates infection of the adenoids. You can find Echinacea in capsule and liquid form at most health food stores.
4. Honey
Honey is an effective anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. When taken daily, honey helps reduce enlarged adenoids and can even treat symptoms including pain and soreness. Add a few drops of lemon juice to a teaspoon of honey and give it to your child by mouth 2 to 3 times daily.
Continue reading below to see what remedies worked from our readers!
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