10 Best Herbal Teas For Sunburn

Herbal teas can be a soothing and natural remedy for sunburn due to their anti-inflammatory and cooling properties.

Chamomile, calendula, and mint are commonly used herbs that help reduce redness and irritation. To prepare a sunburn relief tea, steep a few tea bags in warm water and apply the cooled liquid to the affected skin. This method provides a gentle, chemical-free way to ease discomfort and promote healing.

While herbal teas can offer relief, they should not replace medical treatment for severe sunburns.

1. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a popular herbal tea that has been traditionally used for its calming and soothing properties.

While it is well-known for its ability to aid sleep and reduce stress, chamomile tea may also offer some relief for mild sunburn due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The tea contains compounds such as bisabolol and chamazulene, which have been shown to have skin-soothing effects. However, it is important to note that chamomile tea should not be used as a substitute for proper sunburn treatment, such as cool compresses or aloe vera.

Instead, it can be used as a complementary remedy to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

2. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is often used in herbal teas to provide relief for sunburn due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

These teas typically combine aloe vera with other calming herbs like chamomile or green tea to enhance their cooling and healing effects. The antioxidants in aloe barbadensis help reduce redness and promote skin recovery by supporting cellular regeneration. Drinking aloe-based herbal tea can also help hydrate the body, which is essential for skin healing after sun exposure.

While it is not a substitute for direct skin treatment, it can be a complementary remedy to aid in the overall recovery process from sunburn.

3. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal teas for its potential soothing and healing properties.

While it is not a direct treatment for sunburn, some studies suggest that sage may help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. Herbal teas made from sage can be consumed internally to support overall skin health and may also be applied topically as a compress to alleviate discomfort. However, it is important to note that sage should not replace conventional sunburn treatments such as aloe vera or cool compresses.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using sage or any herbal remedy for skin conditions.

4. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a plant that has been used for centuries in herbal medicine for its various health benefits.

While it is not a direct treatment for sunburn, some people use stinging nettle herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms such as inflammation and irritation caused by sun exposure. The tea is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may support the body's natural healing process. However, it is important to note that stinging nettle should not replace proper sun protection or medical treatment for severe sunburn.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

5. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may offer some relief for sunburned skin.

While it is not a substitute for sunscreen or after-sun care products, herbal teas made from Camellia sinensis can be used as a soothing remedy to alleviate redness and discomfort. The polyphenols in these teas help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are common in sunburned skin. Some people apply cooled tea bags directly to the affected area for a cooling and hydrating effect.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for severe sunburns, as herbal teas should complement, not replace, proper medical treatment.

6. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, also known as dog rose, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to support skin health and soothe various skin conditions, including sunburn.

Its leaves, flowers, and fruits are often used to make herbal teas that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds. When consumed internally, rosa canina tea can help boost the body’s natural healing processes and promote hydration, which is essential for recovering from sunburn. Topically, the tea can be applied as a compress to cool and calm burned skin, reducing redness and discomfort.

While it is not a substitute for immediate sun protection, rosa canina herbal tea can be a natural and supportive remedy in the recovery process from sunburn.

7. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal teas for its soothing and calming properties.

While it is not a cure for sunburn, lavender tea can help alleviate some symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting skin healing. The essential oils in lavender have mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may provide some relief when applied topically or consumed in tea form. However, it is important to note that lavender tea should not replace proper sunburn care, such as cool compresses, aloe vera, or medical attention if severe.

For best results, lavender tea should be used as a complementary remedy alongside standard first-aid treatments for sunburn.

8. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of sunburn due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tea is believed to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness by promoting skin healing and calming inflammation. While it is not a substitute for immediate first aid like cool compresses or aloe vera, it may offer some relief when applied topically after the initial burn has subsided. However, it is important to note that internal consumption of St. John's wort tea should be approached with caution, as it can interact with certain medications.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using it for sunburn or any other medical condition.

9. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, also known as blessed thorn, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing properties, including its potential benefits for treating sunburn.

This herb contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing, making it a popular ingredient in herbal teas for sunburn relief. When brewed into a tea, Cnicus benedictus can be applied topically or consumed internally to support the body’s natural healing processes. Its mild, slightly bitter taste is often combined with other calming herbs like chamomile or calendula to enhance its therapeutic effects.

While it may provide some relief, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for severe sunburn cases.

10. Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is a popular herbal remedy used in teas to help soothe and heal sunburned skin.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of calendula can reduce redness, irritation, and pain associated with sunburn. When brewed into a calming tea, it can be applied topically as a compress or used internally to support the body's healing process. Many people find calendula tea to be a gentle and natural alternative to commercial sunburn treatments.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using calendula, especially if you have sensitive skin or are taking medications.