All people have surely experienced a swelling and painful lymph node/nodes in different parts of their body. A lymph node is a small pea-shaped gland that can grow up to a size like an egg when swollen. Swollen lymph nodes can be tender or hard depending on the severity of the infection.
Cause
Lymph nodes function as a filter for cancer cells and bacteria and it also stores white blood cells to fight infection in your body. According to WebMD, there are hundreds of lymph nodes in the body but they are commonly found behind the ears, under the jaw, armpits and groin. Lymph nodes will start to swell if there are underlying health conditions like fever, sore throat, flu, bacterial infection, etc.
Remedy
The swelling of the lymph node is part of the body's defense mechanism from invasive bacteria and viruses but there are times that the swelling causes us to feel uneasy and in pain. Here are home remedies that you can try to lessen the swelling and pain of lymph nodes.
1. Hot Compress
It's widely known that a hot compress can promote a better blood circulation in the area where it is applied. For swelling lymph nodes, this would be a perfect quick remedy.
2. Salt Water
Gargling a salt water solution can be beneficial as posted by Beliefnet. Salt water solution can inhibit the growth and kills bacteria in the mouth that causes sore throat. It may not provide a quick relief from swollen lymph node pain but it is very effective.
3. Garlic
A peeled clove of garlic may have a strong smell but don't get disturbed by it because it can effectively ease the swelling of lymph nodes. Massage the swollen lymph nodes gently with crushed garlic. Garlic contains a substance that stimulates the lymph nodes.
4. Natural Honey
It contains an anti-inflammatory property that helps ease the swelling of lymph nodes. Apply it on the affected area and leave it for ten to 15 minutes before you rinse. The pain will gradually be gone.
5. Milk and Turmeric
This is also a good alternative. Just prepare a cup of milk and add a small amount of turmeric. The mixture also has an anti-inflammatory property that can ease the swollen lymph nodes.
