How to deflate swollen glands

Lymph nodes are small kidney-shaped structures that contain white blood cells and work as filters that capture viruses, bacteria, and abnormal cells They are carried away by the lymph, a stream of clear extracellular fluid. The nodes are part of the immune system and are distributed throughout the body along the lymphatic vessels.

In the body there are from 600 to 700 lymph nodes, which are especially concentrated on the neck, under the chin, armpits and groin. We can have swollen glands for various reasons.

Why are the lymph nodes inflamed?

swollen lymph nodes indicate an immune reaction against a threat which is usually a virus or a bacterium. Swollen glands in children are more common because their immune system is very efficient and active in producing antibodies.

A simple cold without complications can cause swelling of one of several nodes. Flu and other infectious diseases such as measles, rubella, infectious mononucleosis, or bacterial infections, including tonsillitis, can also inflame the glands.

Unfortunately, the cause of the inflammation also It can be a chronic or serious illness, so a medical examination is always necessary. In general, when swelling occurs with a sore throat, fever, or runny nose, a harmless virus is most likely the cause.

But if after three or four weeks the swollen glands are still present and there are no other typical symptoms of a respiratory infection, a medical examination is even more necessary. In any case, the nodes should not be touched.

Home remedies for swollen glands

When we have the glands inflamed by a virus and they are painful, they can be treated additionally with home and natural remedies.

1. Warm compress

The Mayo Clinic recommends applying a warm or cold wet compress to the affected area. Place it loosely over the node for 5-10 minutes. You can perform the application several times a day.

2. Honey

Taking honey (1 1 to 3 teaspoons daily) can help reduce inflammation, in case of infections that affect the throat and mouth.

It is highly recommended that honey be organically produced to guarantee its purity and care for the natural environment.

3. Apple cider vinegar

A company soaked in vinegar and drained can be placed on the swollen node. The application can be done twice a day.

It is also a good idea to take a couple of tablespoons of organic vinegar dissolved in a glass of water, two or three times a day.

Video: Properties of apple cider vinegar

4. Salt water

Salt water helps reduce congestion, especially in the case of infections in the throat and in areas close to it.

To benefit from his action, mix half a teaspoon of salt with 300 milliliters of water and gargle with the solution several times a day.

5. Rest

It is very convenient to reduce activity and rest as much as possible, even increasing the hours of sleep to facilitate the work of the immune system and overcome the disease more quickly.

6. Eat raw garlic cloves

Chemical compounds found in crushed raw garlic, such as allicin, possess antibiotic properties. Crush and eat 2 or 3 raw garlic cloves a day until the infection disappears.

7. Vitamin C

An extra dose of vitamin C helps the immune system when it has to deal with an infection and reduces the chances of complications.

It is best to take vitamin C through a whole food, such as a kiwi, an orange or a couple of tangerines.

8. Astragalus root

Astragalus root aids in the adjunctive treatment of swollen lymph nodes from a viral infection, such as mononucleosis.

Astragalus can be taken as a tincture, capsule, or infusion. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Scientific references: