Role of Homoeopathy in Reducing Antibiotic Dependence in a case of Recurrent Tonsillitis

Recurrent tonsillitis is a common health problem among children in India, particularly between the ages of 5 and 15 years. It is characterized by repeated inflammation of the palatine tonsils due to bacterial or viral infections. Epidemiological studies suggest that approximately 12–15% of Indian school-aged children suffer from recurrent tonsillitis. Conventional management generally includes antibiotic therapy during acute infections and, in chronic or recurrent cases, tonsillectomy may be advised. However, frequent antibiotic use often leads to resistance and temporary relief, prompting many parents to seek safe, long-term alternatives such as homeopathic treatment, which aims at reducing recurrence by enhancing the child’s immunity and constitutional health.

Master S.M. (Patient ID: 54969), a 10-year-old child, was brought by his parents for consultation at Life Force Clinic on July 7, 2024.

He presented with recurrent episodes of tonsillitis since October 2022, with symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, fever, and productive cough. He used to get 1–2 episodes every month, usually triggered by a change in climate, exposure to cold air drafts, or consumption of cold food and drinks. Each episode lasted for about 6–7 days and required a course of antibiotics, which he had to take almost every month.

During the detailed case history, it was noted that the patient’s father is an Army clerk, which results in frequent relocations. In May 2022, the family shifted from Delhi to Amritsar. In the winter of October 2022, the patient developed tonsillitis for the first time. Before this, he had never experienced such complaints.

Along with the presenting symptoms, the patient had a marked craving for sweets and milk. Due to repeated episodes of tonsillitis, his appetite and thirst had reduced.

On enquiring about his nature, his parents reported that he is an A+ student but lacks self-confidence. He is shy and fearful by nature, takes time to make friends, and once he does, he tends to get closely attached to only one. He also finds it difficult to adjust to new places or people and is very attached to his mother.

After carefully studying his case, Dr. Rajesh Shah prescribed the individualized homeopathic medicine Silica.

Follow-ups:

1st Follow-up (September 3, 2024):

His mother reported that over the past 2 months, he had only one episode of fever on August 8, 2024, followed by a sore throat, which lasted for a week. He required antibiotics during this episode.

2nd Follow-up (November 5, 2024):

He had one episode of tonsillitis with sore throat and fever, lasting for 3 days. This time, he required antibiotics for only 3 days.

3rd & 4th Follow-ups (January and March 2025):

His mother reported one episode each month; however, the complaints resolved without the need for antibiotics. Compared to before starting treatment, the intensity and frequency of symptoms had improved by approximately 60%.

Recent Follow-up (September 9, 2025):

His mother reported that he had no episodes of tonsillitis since March 2025 and had not taken any antibiotics since January 2025.

The patient is currently continuing homeopathic treatment as a preventive measure to avoid any recurrence of symptoms.

Conclusion:

This case demonstrates the effectiveness of individualized homeopathic treatment in managing recurrent tonsillitis in children. The prescribed remedy, Silica, not only reduced the frequency and severity of infections but also eliminated the need for antibiotics over time. This highlights the potential of Homoeopathy as a safe, gentle, and long-term therapeutic approach in preventing recurrent tonsillitis and improving overall immunity in children.

• Case study written by Dr.Dhanashree Patil, an associate doctor to Dr.Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)