What are the best Ayurvedic antibiotics for throat infection?

Question

For the past few weeks, I’ve been dealing with a throat infection that just won’t go away. It started as a mild sore throat, but then my tonsils got swollen, and I had difficulty swallowing. I even got a mild fever for a couple of days, and my voice became hoarse. I took regular antibiotics prescribed by my doctor, but the infection came back within two weeks.

This keeps happening to me every few months. Every time I take antibiotics, it goes away temporarily, but then after a while, my throat feels scratchy and inflamed again. I’m starting to think that taking antibiotics over and over again is making my immune system weaker instead of solving the actual issue.

I know that Ayurveda has natural antibiotics for throat infections, but I don’t know which ones work best. Are there specific herbs or home remedies that can fight throat infections without damaging gut health? I’ve heard about things like turmeric, mulethi (licorice), and tulsi, but I don’t know how to use them correctly.

Also, could my recurring throat infections be related to excess Kapha dosha? I’ve noticed that I get a lot of mucus buildup in my throat, especially in the morning. If that’s the case, how can I balance it naturally? Should I change my diet or avoid certain foods to prevent these constant infections?

I really don’t want to keep taking antibiotics again and again. If there’s a natural Ayurvedic approach to boosting immunity and preventing throat infections, I’d love to know. Any advice would be really helpful!

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Recurring throat infections are often linked to low immunity, chronic inflammation, and an imbalance in Kapha and Pitta doshas in Ayurveda. Kapha dosha causes mucus buildup, congestion, and heaviness in the throat, while Pitta dosha can lead to inflammation, redness, and burning sensations. Since antibiotics provide only temporary relief and disrupt gut health, a holistic Ayurvedic approach focuses on boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and balancing Kapha naturally to prevent future infections.

Several Ayurvedic remedies can help fight throat infections effectively. Turmeric (Haldi) with warm milk or honey has strong antimicrobial properties to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Mulethi (licorice root) tea or powder mixed with honey helps coat and heal the throat while acting as a natural expectorant to clear mucus. Tulsi (holy basil) tea is excellent for strengthening the respiratory system and preventing recurrent infections. Additionally, gargling with warm salt water or a decoction of Triphala or Yashtimadhu (licorice) can help reduce swelling and kill bacteria in the throat. Steam inhalation with eucalyptus or ajwain (carom seeds) can also clear excess mucus.

To prevent frequent throat infections, Ayurveda recommends dietary and lifestyle modifications. Avoid cold, dairy-heavy, or excessively sweet foods, as they increase Kapha and mucus buildup. Instead, focus on warm, easily digestible foods like soups, herbal teas, and light grains. Drinking hot water with ginger and honey can help keep the throat clear. Strengthening immunity is key—taking Chyawanprash (an Ayurvedic immunity booster), Ashwagandha, or Guduchi (Giloy) can enhance the body's resistance to infections. Regular Pranayama (breathing exercises like Bhastrika and Anulom Vilom) helps clear congestion and improve lung function. Making these adjustments can gradually reduce dependency on antibiotics and prevent future throat infections naturally.

What are the best Ayurvedic antibiotics for throat infection? - #16593

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions