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 green tea are particularly effective, as they contain compounds that help reduce redness and irritation. To use, simply steep the herbs in hot water and apply the cooled liquid to the affected skin using a clean cloth. This method provides a gentle, non-irritating way to ease discomfort and promote healing.

While herbal teas should not replace medical treatment for severe sunburn, they can offer relief and support the skin’s natural recovery process.

1. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a gentle herbal tea often used for its calming and soothing properties.

While it is not a direct treatment for sunburn, chamomile tea can provide relief by reducing inflammation and promoting skin healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. Some people apply cooled chamomile tea as a compress to soothe burned skin, which may help alleviate redness and discomfort. It is important to note that chamomile should not replace proper sunburn care, such as cool compresses, aloe vera, and hydration.

Always consult a healthcare professional for severe sunburn symptoms.

2. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a herbal plant that has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties.

While it is not a direct treatment for sunburn, some herbal teas made from stinging nettle may help soothe inflammation and reduce redness associated with sunburn due to its anti-inflammatory compounds. The tea is believed to support skin healing and may help alleviate discomfort when applied topically or consumed internally. However, it is important to note that urtica dioica should not replace conventional sunburn remedies such as aloe vera or cool compresses.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal teas for sunburn, especially if you have sensitive skin or underlying health conditions.

3. Camellia sinensis

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green tea is derived, contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may offer some relief for sunburn symptoms.

While it is not a substitute for sunscreen or a cure for severe sunburn, herbal teas made from Camellia sinensis can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness when applied topically. These teas contain catechins, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have been shown to have cooling and healing properties. To use, allow the tea to cool and apply it as a compress or spray on the affected area.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for severe cases of sunburn, as herbal remedies should complement—not replace—medical treatment.

4. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help soothe sunburn symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tea is believed to promote skin healing and reduce redness and discomfort associated with sunburn. While it may offer some relief, it is important to note that it should not replace proper sun protection or medical treatment for severe burns. Some studies suggest that the active compounds in hypericum perforatum may support skin regeneration, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you are on medication or have sensitive skin.

5. 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. When consumed, the tea helps to hydrate the body and may support the skin's natural repair process from sun damage. However, it is important to note that topical application of aloe vera is more effective for direct sunburn relief than internal consumption.

While herbal teas can be a complementary remedy, they should not replace medical treatment for severe sunburn.

6. Salvia officinalis

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

While not a direct treatment for sunburn, sage tea may help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. The tea can be applied topically as a compress or consumed internally to support the body's natural recovery processes. However, it is important to note that sage tea should not replace conventional treatments for severe sunburn, such as cool compresses, aloe vera, or medical attention if necessary.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially for sensitive or severe skin conditions.

7. Rosa canina

Rosa canina, also known as rosehip, is a herbal tea that has been traditionally used for its high concentration of vitamin C and antioxidants, which can support skin health.

When used for sunburn relief, rosehip tea is often applied topically as a compress or taken internally to promote healing and reduce inflammation. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe redness and irritation caused by sun exposure. While it is not a substitute for sunscreen, it can be a complementary remedy to aid in recovery from mild sunburn.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using rosehip tea for significant burns or if you have any underlying health conditions.

8. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal teas to help soothe and cool the skin, including relief for sunburn.

The calming properties of lavender essential oils, extracted from the flowers, provide a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, which can reduce redness and irritation. When brewed into a soothing tea, lavender can help promote skin healing and reduce discomfort associated with sunburn. It is often recommended to apply the cooled tea directly to the affected area for immediate relief.

While lavender tea is not a substitute for proper sun protection, it can be a beneficial complementary remedy for mild sunburn symptoms.

9. Silybum marianum

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal plant commonly used in herbal teas for its potential skin-soothing properties.

While not a direct treatment for sunburn, some proponents suggest that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce skin irritation and promote healing. The tea is believed to support liver function, which in turn may aid in the body's overall detoxification and recovery process after sun exposure. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of milk thistle tea specifically for sunburn relief.

For effective sunburn treatment, it is recommended to use cool compresses, aloe vera gel, and over-the-counter pain relievers, while consulting a healthcare professional for severe cases.

10. Cnicus benedictus

Cnicus benedictus, commonly known as blessed thistle, is a herb that has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate symptoms of sunburn.

This plant contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation caused by excessive sun exposure. When brewed into a tea, blessed thistle is believed to support the body's natural healing processes and promote skin recovery. However, it is important to note that while some people use this herb for sunburn relief, it should not replace conventional treatments such as aloe vera or cool compresses.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using blessed thistle, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.