21 Astounding Home Remedies For Tonsil Stones That Provide Results

When someone inquires about the possibility of stones in the body, we usually think of those in the kidneys or gallbladder.

But would you be surprised to learn that you can also have stones in your mouth, particularly around your tonsils?

Intriguing, isn’t it? Tonsil stones are a common occurrence and are seen in many people.

What are Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones, medically known as tonsilloliths, are white or yellow-colored deposits that typically form on or around the tonsils.

Many people with tonsil stones often report that they were unaware of their presence. This is primarily because tonsil stones usually don’t cause pain in the early stages, making them easy to overlook.

While these formations don’t pose serious health risks, they can vary in size, ranging from as small as a grain of rice to as large as a grape.

What are the Causes of Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones are merely depositions that harden over time due to a lack of treatment.

Now, are you wondering what kind of depositions they are?

If you weren’t aware, our tonsils are made up of several tunnels and pits, medically known as tonsil crypts.

Since these are wide openings, there is a possibility of dead cells, tissues, and even mucus getting trapped in them, eventually leading to the formation of tonsil stones.

Some of the most common causes of tonsil stones include:

• Lack of proper oral hygiene
• Large tonsils
• Inflamed tonsils
• Sinus issues

What are the Symptoms of Tonsil Stones?

Even though it is often hard to detect tonsil stones, a few noticeable signs and symptoms can help identify their presence, allowing for effective natural remedies for tonsil stones to be administered.

Some symptoms include:

1. Bad Breath

Bad breath is the most common symptom of tonsil stones, which is caused by an infection of the tonsils.

2. Sore Throat

Tonsil stones can also trigger throat infections, which may cause pain and difficulties while swallowing liquid or solid food. Discomfort may vary depending on the size and location of the tonsil stones.

3. Earache

Ear pain has also been linked to tonsil stones. Although the stones form near the tonsils and do not directly affect the ears, ear pain is common for those suffering from tonsil stones.

4. Inflammation

Inflammation and infection can also be triggered by tonsil stones, which may cause the tonsils to swell.

Other Symptoms:

• Trouble swallowing
• Swollen tonsils
• A persistent cough

Side Effects of Tonsil Stones

There are a few complications that can arise if the tonsil stones aren’t removed or treated promptly before the situation gets worse than it already is.

Some of the side effects of tonsil stones include:

• Throat infection
• Tonsil inflammation and infection

How to Get Rid of Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones are a work in progress. They don’t happen overnight. It takes a substantial amount of time for the stones to form and develop, which is why it is necessary to maintain healthy oral health right from the beginning to ensure that there is no possibility of even contracting this issue in the first place.

How to Remove Tonsil Stones Naturally

While the concept of stones can be a bit alarming, tonsil stones are not something you need to fret about.

Several natural remedies can be used to successfully get rid of them without causing any side effects.

1. Strong Coughing

Strong and energetic coughing often helps loosen tonsil stones from in and around the tonsils, making removing them easy without inducing gagging. The force created by vigorous coughing helps dislodge the tonsil stones from where they are attached, allowing you to get rid of them without needing to dig into the area.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works miraculously in healing the signs and symptoms associated with tonsil stones. There is no concrete explanation for how it works, but many people who have tried this remedy have claimed it does.

1. All you have to do is cut an aloe vera leaf and extract the pulp.
2. Blend it with half the quantity of water and gargle with it.
3. You can also drink half of it for better, more pronounced effects.

3. Use Your Fingers

Since tonsil stones typically form in and around the tonsils, you can often use your fingers to remove them.

Ensure you’re standing before a mirror so you have a good visual. Do not attempt to remove tonsil stones blindly, as this could lead to adverse effects.

Caution: Ensure your nails are trimmed to avoid injuring the tissues of your throat, as long nails can cause lesions and tears.

4. Baking Soda

If you can’t fully extract and remove the tonsil stones, the next best option is to dissolve them so they can be excreted from your body.

One effective method for removing tonsil stones is using baking soda. Baking soda has antibacterial properties that help kill the bacteria and viruses in the cavity, preventing the development of bad odor.

1. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water, ensuring it’s completely dissolved.
2. Gargle with this solution every morning.

Caution: Make sure the water is lukewarm and not too hot, as hot water can damage your throat.

This is one of the best options if you are looking for a simple at-home remedy for tonsil stone treatment.

5. Colloidal Silver

Another effective remedy is colloidal silver. While it can be highly effective, it comes with potential side effects, which is why it’s often suggested as a last resort when other remedies fail to provide the desired results.

Since the body has no metabolic requirement for colloidal silver, excessive ingestion can lead to a condition known as sequestration or accumulation. This consistent buildup can cause the skin to take on a silver-blue hue, which is undesirable.

Always consult a doctor before opting for colloidal silver for tonsil stone removal, and even then, consume it in sparing quantities and for a short period.

There are better tonsil stone treatments available, hence it is best to try those options before resorting to this one.

6. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is another effective treatment without any side effects.

Choose the edible form of Epsom salt instead of bath salts, as the latter can contain additives that have adverse effects on the body.

Epsom salt, much like the baking soda treatment, helps wash away the germ infestation in the oral cavity.

1. Mix one tablespoon of Epsom salt with a glass of lukewarm water, ensuring that it is completely dissolved.
2. Gargle with it every morning until the tonsil stones are completely removed.

Epsom salt won’t alter your blood pressure because the amount of sodium is considerably low.

7. Garlic Clove

Consumption of garlic helps fight odor-causing germs and prevents the excessive growth of microbes in the oral cavity.

Garlic is rich in antimicrobial properties due to the presence of allicin, which helps inhibit the growth of unwanted bacteria around the tonsil stones, thereby aiding in their gradual removal.

1. Take a reasonably sized garlic clove and chew on it every morning to put its antimicrobial properties to use.

8. Ginger

Another amazing natural remedy for tonsil stone removal is ginger, especially ginger tea. Ginger tea offers numerous health benefits, from reducing cold and cough symptoms to possessing antimicrobial properties.

All these benefits help reduce the excessive accumulation of mucus in and around the tonsils and prevent the growth of bacteria and other microbes on the tonsil stones.

1. Crush an inch of ginger and add it to the tea you consume throughout the day.

It not only adds a distinctive taste and punch but also helps soothe a scratchy throat, if you have one.

9. Cotton Swab

If you are looking for an inexpensive method for removing tonsil stones, cotton swabs can be effective. They can help effectively pop out the tonsil stones, but there are a few precautionary steps to consider.

1. Position the swab at the back of the stone so that when it is successfully popped out.
2. It is pushed forward into the mouth rather than down the throat to avoid the risk of swallowing or choking.
3. Make sure to wet the cotton swab; a dry one can cause a tear in the throat and tonsils.
4. Once the tonsil stone is removed, gargle with some water and spit it out.

10. Raw Onions

Raw onions are rich in effective enzymes that help keep the environment of the oral cavity healthy. Not only that, the active enzymes also help kill the bacterial growth near the tonsil stones, which causes a foul smell in the mouth and is responsible for bad breath.

Eating raw onions temporarily might cause bad breath, but they are very effective in the long run.

1. For effective results, simply chew on a piece of raw onion once a day and then rinse your mouth with mouthwash if needed.
2. It is important to chew the onion thoroughly to extract the maximum juice, which contains the active enzymes.

11. Carrots

Many people consider carrots to be an amazing vegetable for the eyes because of their high levels of beta-carotene. However, what people fail to realize is that they are one of the most effective natural remedies for tonsil stones. Carrots have antimicrobial properties that help kill bacterial growth in the mouth and prevent further degradation of the condition of the tonsil stones.

For the best effect, it is advisable to chew on raw carrots, as the enzymes and antimicrobial properties are at their peak in this state. Chewing on a raw carrot throughout the day should do the trick.

12. Good Oral Hygiene

One of the most common reasons for the formation of tonsil stones is a lack of good oral hygiene. The consistent accumulation of food particles, mucus, and similar substances results in the formation of tonsil stones, which can cause pain and inflammation if left untreated.

The key to effectively treating tonsil stones lies in maintaining proper oral health and hygiene.

1. Brush your teeth twice a day and ensure that you keep your tongue clean, as that is where most bacteria reside and multiply.
2. Cleanse the entire oral cavity with mouthwash at least once a day for better cleaning of the nooks and crevices.

13. Stay Hydrated

One of the prevailing causes of tonsil stones is a lack of hydration in the body. A dry mouth contributes to the growth of bacteria because there is insufficient saliva to help flush it down to the gut.

That is why it is important to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking an adequate amount of water.

14. Yogurt

You can also use yogurt to remove tonsil stones immediately. Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria known as probiotics. Probiotics not only eliminate bacteria and infections but also help prevent their recurrence. Consuming natural probiotics is always helpful in eliminating the bacteria that cause infections and tonsil stones.

15. Apple Cider Vinegar

The acid content in apple cider vinegar is highly effective in eliminating tonsil stones. The acids in both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar are useful in breaking down tonsil stones until they begin to disappear. Gargling with apple cider vinegar is also very helpful. Mix some apple cider vinegar with water for dilution and then gargle with it.

Juices for Tonsil Stones

Juices are another way to remove tonsil stones without gagging. They help not only to flush out or dissolve the stones but also to combat bacterial growth in and around the tonsil stones.

The best juices that act as effective home remedies for tonsil stones include:

16. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is jam-packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, which help flush out tonsil stones effectively.

1. All you need to do is mix two tablespoons of lemon juice into a glass of water and drink it.
2. Make sure you swirl the liquid around your mouth and keep it there for about a minute before swallowing.

Lemon juice helps cleanse the mouth and removes lingering remnants of bacteria or other microbes, which is excellent for preventing the recurrence of tonsil stones.

17. Pickle Juice

Pickle juice is rich in probiotics and acidic properties, which are beneficial for keeping bacterial growth in the mouth cavity in check.

Even though this natural remedy works wonders for tonsil stone removal, it’s best to avoid it if you suffer from hypertension due to its high salt concentration.

Diluting the pickle juice with some water before consuming or gargling is advisable, as the concentrated form may be too much all at once.

Gargles for Tonsil Stone Removal

Gargling is another effective treatment for tonsil stones. It helps wash out the tonsil stones easily, without causing any side effects or problems.

Some common ingredients that help gargle to remove tonsil stones include:

18. Salt Water Gargling

Gargling rigorously with a solution of salt and water helps dislodge tonsil stones from around the tonsils in the throat.

Not only that, this method of tonsil stone treatment also changes the chemistry of the oral cavity, which effectively contributes to fighting microbial growth in and around the tonsil stones, thereby preventing further worsening of the condition.

1. Mix one tablespoon of salt with a glass of lukewarm water and dissolve it completely.
2. Gargle with the solution, swirling it around your mouth vigorously to ensure it coats and washes away every inch of your mouth and throat.

[Read More Benefits of Salt Water Gargling]

19. Hydrogen Peroxide

A diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide mixed with water makes for a fantastic gargling solution. The composition of hydrogen peroxide is rich in antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which help effectively kill the odor-causing bacteria around the white deposits of tonsil stones.

1. To cure tonsil stones, mix one tablespoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide into a glass of water and stir it well.
2. Gargle with this solution every day until the tonsil stones are flushed out.

Make sure to always prepare a fresh batch of diluted gargling solution each time before you gargle.

20. Coconut Oil

Extra virgin coconut oil is an effective home remedy for removing tonsil stones.

The effect of oil pulling with this ingredient specifically helps treat tonsil stones by pulling them out without causing any tears near the throat or tonsils, which is a bonus.

It also activates the enzymes that help flush out toxins and microbes responsible for the foul smell.

1. Much like gargling, swirl coconut oil around your mouth and spit it out after doing so for about 30 seconds.
2. Repeat this process at least five times in one session.
3. If you dislike the remnants of coconut oil, rinse your mouth with warm water and spit it out.

21. Essential Oils

Essential oils are widely known for their amazing healing and curative properties. Several of these oils contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are very helpful in the treatment of tonsil stones, primarily caused by the excessive presence of microbes in the oral cavity.

Some variants of essential oils, such as tea tree oil and peppermint oil, have a pronounced effect on the treatment of tonsil stones.

1. You can either brush your teeth and the entire oral cavity with two to three drops of either of these oils or mix them with water.
2. Store the mixture in a spray bottle, and use it regularly to cleanse the oral cavity.

Foods to Avoid for Tonsil Stones

If you frequently experience issues with tonsil stones, it’s best to be cautious about certain foods that can either cause or aggravate the situation.

The list of foods to avoid for tonsil stones includes:

• Milk or dairy products: High-protein dairy products promote mucus production, which can hinder the removal of tonsil stones.
• Foods like popcorn and spinach: These easily get stuck in the crevices of the teeth, which can lead to the accumulation of food particles around the tonsil crypts, thereby causing tonsil stones.
• Coffee or any caffeine derivative: Caffeine is one of the primary mucus-producing compounds.
• Sugary foods: While they might not directly induce tonsil stones, they contribute to their growth by providing a feeding ground for bacteria. The multiplication of bacteria exacerbates the condition of tonsil stones.
• Carbonated drinks and alcohol: Overconsumption of alcohol can lead to mucus accumulation, and the sugar content in carbonated drinks promotes bacterial growth. This doesn’t necessarily help in the removal of tonsil stones but rather worsens the situation.

When to See a Doctor for Tonsil Stones?

Tonsil stones are easily curable issues that don’t necessarily require any intervention from a doctor if diagnosed at an early stage.

If not addressed, and if the situation persists, there is a chance that the stones can cause inflammation and infection in the tonsils, which can be very painful at times and potentially dangerous.

If you are experiencing persistent pain in your throat along with inflammation, it is always best to consult a doctor, as there is a possibility that the tonsil stones might have transformed into something much worse.

Conclusion

Tonsil stones may appear to be nothing but a tiny spot in your throat – nothing much to worry about; but if left untreated, they can cause you a lot of pain and other symptoms. Fortunately, there are many home remedies that will help you get rid of tonsil stones.

From simple things like good oral hygiene and drinking enough water to using strong ingredients like garlic or ginger, you have plenty of options. These remedies can be added to your daily regimen so that you not only relieve the symptoms of tonsil stones but also avoid them altogether.

However, if your symptoms persist or exacerbate, it is always best to consult with a medical professional regarding your throat health. Be right with yourself and keep your tonsils healthy with fresh breath!

Food for Thought With Some FAQs

1: How to Check for Tonsil Stones?

A: The only possible way to check for tonsil stones at home is by standing in front of a mirror with a flashlight in hand to look out for the possible white and yellow depositions around the tonsil which is located in the throat.

2: How Long Does it Take for Tonsil Stones to Go Away?

A: There is no set date or time interval for how long it takes the stones to get removed. It can take weeks to months, primarily depending upon the kind of natural remedy for tonsil stone removal being administered.

3: Are Tonsil Stones Contagious?

A: No, tonsil stones are not contagious at all. They form and exist in the oral cavity of an individual and don’t spread to any other healthy individual. It reacts and interacts with one’s own mouth’s chemistry and doesn’t get passed onto someone else.

• June 2018
  Written by Somapika D
• Nov 2024
  Edited by Lakshmi Gayatri