Warm Compresses
A time-tested remedy to reduce swelling of the lymph glands is warm compresses. The hot temperature helps increase blood circulation, which in turn reduces swelling as well as pain.
Dip a washcloth in hot water and wring out the excess water.
Place this warm washcloth on the swollen lymph nodes for 5 to 10 minutes.
Repeat a few times daily until the swelling is gone.
You can even wash the swollen area with warm water a few times daily.
Massage
Another effective remedy is massaging the lymph nodes. Massage stimulates the lymph nodes to help them function normally. This helps subside the swelling over a period of time. In addition, it will reduce the accumulation of impurities in the nodes.
Using your fingers, gently massage the lymph nodes for about 5 minutes. Do this 2 or 3 times daily until the swelling is gone.
You can also hire a professional to give you a lymph drainage massage.
Salt Water
A salt water gargle can be beneficial for reducing the swelling and inflammation in lymph nodes in the neck caused by infection in the throat.
Mix ½ teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water.
Gargle with this solution to get relief.
Do this a couple of times daily for about a week.
Honey
Honey is another natural remedy that helps treat enlarged lymph nodes. Its anti-inflammatory property helps ease pain and swelling. In addition, its antibacterial property helps fight the infection that is likely causing this problem.
Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw honey and some fresh lemon juice in a cup of water. Drink it twice daily for a week.
Apply some raw honey on the swollen area, allow it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water. Do this 2 or 3 times daily until the swelling subsides.