10 Best Herbal Teas For Strep Throat

Herbal teas can be a soothing and natural remedy for alleviating symptoms of strep throat, offering gentle relief without the side effects of over-the-counter medications.

Teas made from ingredients like echinacea, ginger, and licorice root are commonly used to reduce inflammation and ease soreness in the throat. These herbs may also help boost the immune system, supporting the body's natural ability to fight off infection. While herbal teas are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can be a helpful complementary therapy when used alongside prescribed antibiotics.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before relying on herbal remedies, especially for persistent or severe strep throat symptoms.

1. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a popular herbal remedy often used to support the immune system and may help alleviate symptoms of strep throat.

When brewed into a tea, echinacea is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can reduce throat irritation and combat bacterial infections. While it is not a substitute for medical treatment, some studies suggest that echinacea may shorten the duration of colds and sore throats. To prepare the tea, dried echinacea flowers are steeped in hot water for several minutes, and it can be consumed several times a day.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using echinacea, especially for individuals with allergies or those taking other medications.

2. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of strep throat due to its soothing and antimicrobial properties.

The menthol in peppermint tea helps to reduce inflammation and ease the irritation of the throat, providing a cooling effect that can relieve pain and discomfort. It also acts as a natural decongestant, helping to clear nasal passages and reduce postnasal drip that often accompanies strep throat. While peppermint tea is not a cure for strep throat, it can serve as a supportive remedy to ease symptoms and promote overall comfort.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to support immune function and alleviate symptoms of strep throat.

The essential oils in thyme, particularly thymol, possess strong antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat the bacteria responsible for strep throat. When brewed into a soothing tea, thyme can help reduce throat irritation, ease coughing, and provide a natural remedy for soreness. Many people find that drinking thyme tea regularly can boost their overall immune response and aid in faster recovery from throat infections.

However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using thyme tea, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

4. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and antioxidants that may help alleviate symptoms of strep throat.

These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can reduce throat irritation and inhibit the growth of Streptococcus bacteria. Herbal teas made from Camellia sinensis, such as green or white tea, can soothe the throat and provide a calming effect due to their mild astringent properties. While not a substitute for antibiotics in bacterial infections like strep throat, these teas may support the immune system and aid in symptom relief.

It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

5. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of strep throat due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea is often prepared by steeping dried sage leaves in hot water, allowing the essential oils and bioactive compounds to infuse into the liquid. Sage contains compounds like thujone and rosmarinic acid, which may help reduce bacterial growth and soothe sore throats. While it is not a substitute for medical treatment, sage tea can be a complementary remedy to ease discomfort and support the immune system.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using sage tea, especially for severe or persistent strep throat infections.

6. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a herbal plant often used in teas to support respiratory health, including relief for symptoms of strep throat.

The essential oils in rosemary, such as cineole and camphor, have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce throat irritation and combat bacterial infections. Drinking rosemary tea can soothe soreness and ease swallowing, making it a natural remedy for those suffering from strep throat. While it is not a substitute for medical treatment, it can be a complementary therapy to alleviate discomfort.

To prepare the tea, steep fresh or dried rosemary leaves in hot water for several minutes, and optionally add honey or lemon for added soothing effects.

7. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

While it is not a direct treatment for strep throat, some studies suggest that its high concentration of flavonoids and antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and support the immune system, potentially alleviating symptoms. Herbal teas made from stinging nettle can be brewed by steeping dried leaves in hot water, and they are generally considered safe for most adults when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to note that urtica dioica should not replace prescribed antibiotics for bacterial infections like strep throat, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using it as a complementary therapy.

Overall, while stinging nettle tea may offer some supportive benefits, it is not a substitute for medical treatment in cases of severe or persistent strep throat.

8. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to alleviate symptoms of strep throat due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tea works by soothing the irritated throat lining and reducing swelling, which can help ease pain and discomfort associated with streptococcal infections. It also contains compounds like glycyrrhizin that may inhibit the growth of bacteria, supporting the body's natural defenses against infection. However, excessive consumption of licorice root tea can lead to side effects such as high blood pressure, so it should be used in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Despite its potential benefits, it is not a substitute for medical treatment, especially for severe or persistent strep throat infections.

9. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Sambucus nigra, commonly known as elderberry, is a popular herbal ingredient used in teas to support immune health and alleviate symptoms of strep throat.

The berries contain high levels of antioxidants, flavonoids, and vitamins that may help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial infections. When brewed into a tea, elderberry can soothe sore throats and ease discomfort associated with strep throat. However, it is important to note that while elderberry tea may provide supportive benefits, it should not replace prescribed medical treatments for strep throat.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

10. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of strep throat due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The seeds of the fennel plant contain compounds like anethol and flavonoids, which may help reduce throat irritation and combat bacterial infections. When brewed into a tea, fennel can soothe soreness and ease swallowing, making it a popular remedy for mild throat discomfort. However, while fennel tea may offer some relief, it should not replace prescribed treatments for strep throat, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using fennel or any herbal remedy for bacterial infections.