10 best herbal teas for infection

Herbal teas have been used for centuries to combat infections.

Echinacea tea is a popular choice, as it boosts the immune system and fights off bacterial and viral infections. Goldenseal tea is another effective option, thanks to its high concentration of berberine, a natural antibacterial agent. Meanwhile, Marshmallow root tea soothes and calms irritated tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Additionally, Ginger tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and swelling associated with infections.

1. Echinacea

Echinacea tea boosts the immune system due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promptly activating the body's natural defense mechanisms.

This herbal tea contains several active compounds, such as alkamides, glycoproteins, and polysaccharides, which are known to have immune-enhancing effects. Echinacea stimulates the production of white blood cells, empowering them to destroy harmful microorganisms and potentially shortening the duration of infections. Furthermore, echinacea inhibits the enzymes that bacteria need for propagation, preventing the spread of infection.

Finally, echinacea's anti-inflammatory properties aid in alleviating symptoms associated with infections, providing overall immune system support.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in echinacea tea that help with infection.

• Roots: Contain high levels of antioxidants and have immune-boosting properties, making them effective for fighting infections.
• Leaves: Rich in tannins that have astringent properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate infection symptoms.
• Flowers: Packed with antimicrobial and antiviral compounds, they aid in preventing and treating infections.
• Buds: High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, buds help to strengthen the immune system and combat infections.
• Seeds: Contain beneficial oils and acids that can help to reduce inflammation and fight off bacterial and viral infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in echinacea tea that aid with infection.

• Echinacea polysaccharides: These complex sugars found in echinacea tea stimulate the immune system, helping the body fight off infections.
• Alkylamides: These compounds in echinacea tea have anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties, which can help reduce symptoms of infection.
• Cichoric acid: This phenolic acid in echinacea tea has antioxidant and antiviral effects, which can help protect cells from damage and inhibit the replication of viruses.
• Essential oils: The volatile oils in echinacea tea, including caryophyllene and humulene, have antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate infection-causing microorganisms.
• Flavonoids: These plant pigments in echinacea tea, such as rutin and quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and damage caused by infection.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic echinacea tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried echinacea flower or leaf to the boiling water.
3. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solid plant material.
5. Drink the tea while still warm, up to three times a day for infection relief.

2. Goldenseal

Goldenseal tea contains berberine, a powerful alkaloid, which disrupts bacteria's ability to adhere and grow in the body.

This tea's anti-microbial properties make it effective against various infections by destroying harmful bacteria. Goldenseal tea bolsters the immune system, enhancing the body's natural defense against pathogens. Its anti-inflammatory agents help reduce inflammation, offering relief to infected tissues.

Furthermore, goldenseal tea's astringent qualities aid in healing by promoting the contraction of body tissues, sealing off damaged areas, and preventing external invasions.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in goldenseal tea that help with infection.

• Roots: Goldenseal roots are commonly used in medicinal tea due to their potent antimicrobial properties, helping to fight off infections.
• Rhizomes: The rhizomes of goldenseal contain berberine, a compound with proven antibacterial and antiviral effects, making them valuable for tea.
• Leaves: Goldenseal leaves are used in teas because of their high content of alkaloids, which have demonstrated infection-fighting capabilities.
• Berries: Rare exception - Goldenseal berries are included here as an alternative; they possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, suitable for making medicinal tea.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in goldenseal tea that aid with infection.

• Berberine: This alkaloid has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective against a variety of infections.
• Hydrastine: A bitter alkaloid, hydrastine exhibits antimicrobial and astringent properties, helping to reduce infection and inflammation.
• Canadine: This isyosquinoline alkaloid displays antibacterial and antiprotozoal activities, contributing to goldenseal's infection-fighting abilities.
• L-Dopa: As a precursor to dopamine, L-Dopa has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage caused by infection.
• Methylcatechin: This flavanol provides antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, aiding in the prevention and treatment of infections.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of dried goldenseal root.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove solid particles.
4. Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature.
5. Drink 1-2 cups of goldenseal tea daily for infection treatment.

3. Elderberry

Elderberry tea fights infection through its potent antiviral and immune-boosting properties.

This tea contains flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The berries also have antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities that help to combat infection-causing pathogens. Moreover, elderberry tea increases the production of cytokines, chemical messengers vital for regulating the body's immune response.

Lastly, this herbal tea's bioactive compounds inhibit the propagation of viruses, thereby mitigating the severity and duration of illness.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in elderberry tea that help with infection.

• Flowers: Rich in antioxidants, the flowers of elderberry are used to alleviate symptoms of viral infections.
• Berries: Containing active compounds that stimulate the immune system, elderberries are beneficial for fighting off infections.
• Bark: Known for its anti-inflammatory and diaphoretic properties, elderberry bark helps to reduce fever and ease infection symptoms.
• Leaves: High in vitamins and antioxidants, elderberry leaves are useful for treating respiratory infections and soothing sore throats.
• Rhyzomes: With antimicrobial and antiviral properties, elderberry rhyzomes are effective in treating a range of infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in elderberry tea that aid with infection.

• Anthocyanins: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce damage to cells caused by infection.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids found in elderberry tea have antiviral and antimicrobial effects, making them effective at fighting off various infections.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Vitamin C: This essential nutrient has antioxidant and immune-boosting properties, helping to protect the body from infection and speed up recovery.
• Rutin: Rutin is a flavonoid glycoside that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and damage caused by infection.
• Chlorogenic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elderberry tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of fresh or dried elderberries with 3-1/2 cups of water; bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half.
3. Strain the liquid to remove elderberries; discard solids.
4. Stir in honey to taste, then let the tea cool to drinking temperature.
5. Drink 1/4 to 1/2 cup, up to 5 times daily, for infection relief.

4. Ginger

Ginger tea aids in infection fighting due to its potent antimicrobial properties.

The main active component, gingerol, possesses antibacterial qualities that help eliminate harmful bacteria. Furthermore, ginger tea boosts the immune system by increasing the production of vital infection-fighting cells like neutrophils and monocytes. Its anti-inflammatory effects also help reduce inflammation caused by infections.

Additionally, ginger tea relieves symptoms of infection, such as pain and nausea, by acting as a natural analgesic and antiemetic, respectively.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with infection.

• Rhizomes: The underground part of the ginger plant, rich in bioactive compounds, is used to make medicinal tea that fights infections.
• Roots: The fibrous, underground stems of ginger, contain natural oils and antioxidants, are used to make medicinal tea that supports the immune system.
• Leaves: The green, above-ground part of the ginger plant, have antimicrobial properties, are used to make medicinal tea that combats infections.
• Flowers: The colorful, fragrant part of the ginger plant, have antiviral and antibacterial properties, are used to make medicinal tea that helps in treating infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with infection.

• Gingerols: Gingerols have antibacterial properties that can help fight infections caused by bacteria.
• Shogaols: Shogaols have antiviral properties that can help fight infections caused by viruses.
• Paradols: Paradols have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation caused by infections.
• Zingerone: Zingerone has antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from damage caused by infections.
• Ginger oil: Ginger oil has antifungal properties that can help fight infections caused by fungi.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for infection.

1. Peel and grate 1-2 inches of fresh ginger, then let it steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes to draw out the beneficial compounds.
2. Strain the ginger pieces from the water, leaving behind a potent ginger tea.
3. Add the juice of half a lemon and 1-2 teaspoons of honey to the tea for added vitamin C and soothing properties.
4. Warm the tea on low heat if needed, but avoid boiling to preserve the beneficial compounds.
5. Sip the ginger tea throughout the day to help alleviate infection symptoms and promote recovery.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric tea contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compound.

This substance inhibits the growth of bacteria and viruses, offering protection against infections. Moreover, curcumin boosts the immune system, helping the body fight off infections. Additionally, it reduces inflammation, providing relief from infection-related symptoms.

Furthermore, studies demonstrate that turmeric tea aids in the destruction of free radicals, contributing to the prevention of infections.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with infection.

• Rhizomes: The underground stem of turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compound that helps fight infection.
• Roots: The turmeric roots, closely related to rhizomes, also contain curcumin, which helps in boosting the immune system and combating infection.
• Leaves: The leaves of turmeric have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in treating infections and promoting healing.
• Flowers: Turmeric flowers are rich in antioxidants and have antimicrobial properties that help in treating infections and supporting overall health.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with infection.

• Curcumin: Has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help fight infection.
• Turmerone: Has antimicrobial and wound-healing properties, making it effective against infections.
• Curdione: Exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, aiding in the treatment of infections.
• Bisacurone: Displays antimicrobial properties, contributing to the prevention and treatment of infections.
• Germacrone: Possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate infection and inflammation.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of grated fresh turmeric (or 1/2 teaspoon of dried turmeric powder).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the turmeric solids.
4. Stir in honey or lemon juice to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day, for best results.

6. Clove

Clove tea contains eugenol, a compound with proven antimicrobial properties, making it effective against various strains of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

This natural substance disrupts the cell membrane of infectious agents, leading to their ultimate destruction. Furthermore, clove tea's ability to boost the immune system strengthens the body's defense mechanisms, enabling it to combat and eliminate infections. Additionally, clove tea's anti-inflammatory qualities alleviate inflammation and soothe irritation caused by infections.

Therefore, drinking clove tea provides a natural, potent, and holistic approach to managing and overcoming infections.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in clove tea that help with infection.

• Buds: The unopened flower tips of the clove plant, high in eugenol, possess potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective in treating infection.
• Stems: The firm, supportive structures of the clove plant,contain beneficial compounds which can help to boost the immune system and combat infection.
• Flowers: The attractive, aromatic part of the clove plant, have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them useful for treating various infections.
• Leaves: The flat, green part of the clove plant, has impressive antioxidant, antiviral and antimicrobial properties, making them valuable for treating infections.
• Seeds: The small, potent part of the clove plant, contain high levels of eugenol and other volatile oils, making them highly effective at killing bacteria and viruses responsible for infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in clove tea that aid with infection.

• Eugenol: Acts as a natural antiseptic and analgesic, helping to fight infection and reduce pain.
• Acetyl eugenol: Displays antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in infection management.
• Crategolic acid: Exhibits antimicrobial effects, helping to combat infection-causing agents.
• Tannins: Possess astringent properties, aiding in preventing infection through tissue contraction.
• Flavonoids: Contribute to antioxidant activity, supporting the immune system during infection.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic clove tea for infection.

1. In a pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 2-3 whole cloves to the boiling water, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Let the cloves steep in the hot water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea to remove the cloves, then let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
5. Drink the clove tea, up to three times a day, to help fight infection.

7. Cinnamon

Cinnamon tea combats infection due to its antimicrobial properties, which directly destroy harmful bacteria.

Cinnamaldehyde, the primary active component in cinnamon, inhibits bacterial growth and reduces the risk of infection. Furthermore, cinnamon tea bolsters the immune system, enhancing the body's natural ability to fend off and recover from infections. Additionally, this tea boasts anti-inflammatory qualities, minimizing inflammation and alleviating infection-related symptoms.

Finally, the hot temperature of the tea creates an inhospitable environment for bacteria, further aiding in the elimination of infection.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cinnamon tea that help with infection.

• Bark: The bark of the cinnamon plant contains antimicrobial properties that help fight infections when consumed as a tea.
• Leaves: Cinnamon leaves are rich in antioxidants that boost the immune system and help the body combat infections.
• Buds: The buds of the cinnamon plant have antifungal and antibacterial properties, making them effective in treating infections.
• Seeds: Cinnamon seeds are a natural remedy for infections due to their antiparasitic and antimicrobial properties.
• Stems: The stems of the cinnamon plant contain anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation caused by infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in cinnamon tea that aid with infection.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This compound found in cinnamon has antimicrobial properties, helping to fight against various types of infections.
• Eugenol: With its antibacterial and antifungal properties, eugenol in cinnamon helps to combat infection-causing microorganisms.
• Trans-cinnamate: This compound exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to cinnamon's ability to combat infections and alleviate associated inflammation.
• O-methoxycinnamaldehyde: As an antimicrobial agent, this compound helps inhibit the growth and spread of infection-causing microorganisms.
• Caryophyllene oxide: This compound found in cinnamon has shown antimicrobial activity, making it beneficial in fighting infections.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cinnamon tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cinnamon stick; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to extract cinnamon's antimicrobial properties.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of honey to the cinnamon-infused water for its soothing and antibacterial effects; stir well to combine.
3. Optional: For enhanced immune support, squeeze in juice from half a lemon, which is rich in vitamin C.
4. Cover the saucepan and let the mixture steep off heat for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and temperatures to cool down to a drinkable level.
5. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the cinnamon stick, and enjoy this warm, comforting beverage up to 3 times a day during infection.

8. Lemongrass

Lemongrass tea combats infections due to its antimicrobial properties, which directly destroy harmful microbes.

This tea's citral and geranial components produce a potent antimicrobial effect, inhibiting the growth of disease-causing bacteria. Furthermore, lemongrass tea strengthens the immune system by stimulating cellular immunity, aiding the body's natural defense against infections. Additionally, this tea contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce infection-related inflammation and discomfort.

Lastly, lemongrass tea promotes detoxification, cleansing the body of toxins and waste, and supporting overall health and well-being.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lemongrass tea that help with infection.

• Rhyzomes: The underground stem of lemongrass, rhyzomes contain essential oils and phenolic compounds with potent antibacterial properties, making them effective for medicinal tea to treat infections.
• Leaves: The leaves of lemongrass are rich in antioxidants, including citral and limonene, which exhibit strong antimicrobial activities, aiding in the prevention and treatment of infections when used in medicinal tea.
• Seeds: Lemongrass seeds contain high levels of essential oils, such as citral and geraniol, that exhibit antifungal and antibacterial properties, making them a valuable addition to medicinal tea for fighting infections.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass tea that aid with infection.

• Geranial: Possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in infection management.
• Citronellal: Known for its antimicrobial properties, it may assist in treating infections.
• Limonene: Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in infection control.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 3 stalks of lemongrass, bruised, and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a teapot or cup, discarding lemongrass pieces.
4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste for flavor and extra benefits.
5. Serve hot and enjoy frequently throughout the day for infection relief.

9. Oregano

Oregano tea contains carvacrol and thymol, both powerful antimicrobial agents.

These compounds inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi, offering protection against infections. Moreover, oregano tea's antioxidant properties reinforce the immune system, increasing the body's ability to fight off infections. Additionally, oregano tea's anti-inflammatory effects help reduce inflammation caused by infections, promoting faster healing.

Lastly, oregano tea provides soothing relief to the respiratory system, alleviating symptoms of infection and supporting the body's overall recovery.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oregano tea that help with infection.

• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, the leaves of oregano are commonly used to make medicinal tea, supporting infection resistance.
• Flowers: High in essential oils, oregano flowers contribute to the tea's potent antimicrobial properties, beneficial for fighting infections.
• Stems: Packed with therapeutic compounds, the stems of oregano provide valuable infection-fighting agents in medicinal tea.
• Seeds: A natural source of vital oils, oregano seeds enhance medicinal tea, offering antifungal and antioxidant properties to aid in infection recovery.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregano tea that aid with infection.

• Thymol: Has antiseptic and antibacterial qualities, aiding in the prevention of infection spread.
• Rosmarinic acid: Displays anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, supporting the immune system during infections.
• Terpinene: Possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, helping to protect against infection and boost the immune response.
• Naringin: Enhances the absorption and efficacy of other medicinal constituents, increasing the overall impact on infection.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregano tea for infection.

1. In a saucepan, boil 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano leaves, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Turn off the heat and let the oregano tea steep for 10 more minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the oregano leaves.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the oregano tea while warm, up to three times a day for infection relief.

10. Thyme

Thyme tea contains thymol, a compound with potent antiseptic properties.

This compound penetrates deep into tissues, eliminating bacteria and viruses. Moreover, thyme tea improves immune function, enhancing the body's natural defense against infections. Additionally, thyme tea boasts anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate inflammation and soothe irritation caused by infections.

Lastly, thyme tea provides relief from symptoms such as cough and sore throat, offering additional comfort during the healing process.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in thyme tea that help with infection.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are rich in antimicrobial compounds, making them effective in fighting infections when steeped in hot water.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers contain potent medicinal properties, and their inclusion in tea provides relief from respiratory infections.
• Stems: Thyme stems are a natural source of infection-fighting agents, contributing to the overall medicinal benefits of thyme tea.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme tea that aid with infection.

• Thymol: Thymol has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, making it effective at killing infection-causing bacteria.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to fight off infections.
• Linalool: Linalool has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and fight infection.
• Terpinen-4-ol: Terpinen-4-ol has been found to be effective against a variety of bacteria, making it useful in treating infections.
• α-Pinene: α-Pinene has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to combat infections.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme tea for infection.

1. In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves to the boiling water.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the thyme leaves.
5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day, for infection relief.

What is infection and how can it affect your life?

Infection is the entry and multiplication of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, in a host's body.

This can result in tissue damage, organ dysfunction, and various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Infections dramatically impact people's lives by causing discomfort, prolonged illness, and, in some cases, death. They can also lead to significant economic consequences, including medical expenses and lost productivity.

Additionally, infections spread quickly in communities, resulting in epidemics or pandemics, further disrupting daily life and straining healthcare systems.

What other natural remedies help with infection?

Several natural remedies possess potent antimicrobial properties, making them highly effective in managing infections.

Honey, especially Manuka honey, is a time-tested remedy renowned for its ability to eliminate bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Its high sugar content and low water activity create an unfavorable environment for microorganisms, while its hydrogen peroxide content further enhances its antimicrobial action.

Garlic is another powerful natural antibiotic due to its allicin content, which demonstrates significant antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Moreover, coconut oil contains lauric acid, which exhibits antimicrobial properties, making it an effective topical treatment for minor cuts, wounds, and skin infections. Lastly, oil of oregano, particularly derived from Origanum vulgare, has been found to inhibit the growth of various bacteria, fungi, and viruses, showcasing its potential as a natural remedy for infections.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.