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Last updated: Apr 16, 2024

10 best herbal teas for laryngitis

Soothing herbal teas offer a gentle approach to alleviating laryngitis symptoms.

Slippery elm tea, with its moisturizing properties, helps calm an inflamed throat, reducing discomfort and promoting healing. Throat Coat tea, a blend of herbs including slippery elm, licorice root, and marshmallow root, provides a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, allowing the throat to heal. Moreover, Ginger tea, with its natural anti-inflammatory properties, helps reduce swelling and ease pain.

Additionally, Lemon and Honey tea, with its antibacterial properties, helps combat infection and soothe an irritated throat, promoting a speedy recovery.

1. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm tea provides relief for laryngitis due to its demulcent property, meaning it has a softening and soothing effect.

This tree's inner bark contains mucilage, a substance that becomes a slick gel when mixed with water. By coating the throat's lining, this gel provides a barrier against irritants and reduces inflammation. Furthermore, it alleviates pain and irritation while promoting healing in the affected tissues.

Slippery elm tea stands out as a time-honored natural remedy for laryngitis, approved by the German Commission E for treating inflammation of the mouth and throat.

Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in slippery elm tea that help with laryngitis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in slippery elm tea that aid with laryngitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm tea for laryngitis.

  1. Measure: Scoop 1 tablespoon of slippery elm bark powder into a tea infuser or teapot with a strainer.
  2. Boil: Pour 8 ounces of water that has reached a rolling boil over the slippery elm bark.
  3. Steep: Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes to release the medicinal properties.
  4. Stir: Mix in honey or lemon juice to enhance the taste and soothing effect, if desired.
  5. Serve: Pour the tea into a cup and drink it while warm, up to three times a day for laryngitis relief.

2. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea brings immediate relief to laryngitis due to the demulcent property of its main ingredient, Althaea officinalis.

This plant-based substance creates a protective film over the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and inflammation. As a result, soreness in the throat significantly decreases, and the natural hydrating effect of marshmallow tea soothes dryness. Furthermore, it promotes expectoration of phlegm, enabling clearer breathing and improved vocal cord function.

Ultimately, marshmallow tea's anti-inflammatory and healing qualities address the discomfort and symptoms of laryngitis effectively.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marshmallow tea that aid with laryngitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow tea for laryngitis.

  1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of dried marshmallow root, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger; bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. Strain the tea to remove solids, then stir in 1 tablespoon of honey and the juice of half a lemon.
  3. Warm up the tea again, but don't let it boil.
  4. Pour the tea into a mug and optionally garnish with a lemon slice.
  5. Sip the tea slowly, allowing it to coat your throat, and drink up to 3 times a day as needed.

3. Licorice

Licorice tea brings immediate relief to laryngitis due to its demulcent properties, which involve a film-forming ability that coats the throat's mucous membrane.

This tea's primary ingredient, glycyrrhizin, exhibits anti-inflammatory qualities, reducing swelling in the throat and alleviating discomfort. Furthermore, licorice tea soothes irritation by increasing the mucus's production, ensuring a protective lubricant layer over the affected area. Additionally, this natural remedy encourages the removal of phlegm, making it easier to expel mucus and other foreign particles.

Lastly, the warm temperature of licorice tea increases blood circulation in the throat, enhancing the immune system's response to inflammation and infection.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with laryngitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for laryngitis.

  1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the licorice root pieces.
  4. Optional: Add honey or lemon to taste.
  5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for laryngitis relief.

4. Chamomile

Chamomile tea brings relief to laryngitis due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the throat.

This herbal tea's soothing warmth eases discomfort by calming irritation. Chamomile's rich antioxidant content strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight laryngitis-causing infections. Furthermore, chamomile tea's mild sedative effects promote restful sleep, aiding in recovery.

Its mucolytic action thins and loosens mucus, making it easier to expel.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with laryngitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for laryngitis.

  1. Measure - Boil 1 cup of water and let 1 chamomile tea bag steep for 5-7 minutes.
  2. Optionally - Add a slice of lemon and a drizzle of honey to taste for additional soothing properties.
  3. Stir - Mix all ingredients together until honey is fully dissolved.
  4. Wait - Let the tea cool down to a warm temperature that is comfortable to drink.
  5. Sip - Drink the tea slowly, holding it in the back of your mouth and throat for a few seconds before swallowing.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint tea brings immediate relief to laryngitis due to its active component, menthol, which possesses strong antiviral and antibacterial properties.

This component works by forming a soothing barrier over the larynx, reducing inflammation and irritation. Moreover, peppermint tea stimulates blood flow, accelerating the healing process. Its natural anti-inflammatory agents further alleviate pain and swelling in the throat.

Additionally, peppermint tea liquefies mucus, making it easier to expel, and inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms causing the infection.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with laryngitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for laryngitis.

  1. In a teapot, add boiling water to 1 teaspoon of crushed dried peppermint leaves.
  2. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes to allow the peppermint oils to infuse.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the leaves, pouring it into a cup.
  4. Optionally, add honey to taste for soothing a sore throat.
  5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day, to help alleviate laryngitis symptoms.

6. Thyme

Thyme tea provides relief for laryngitis due to its well-documented antibacterial and antiviral properties, derived from its active compounds, namely thymol and carvacrol.

These compounds actively combat infection-causing agents, reducing inflammation and soothing irritation in the throat. Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties help loosen mucus, making it easier to expel and clear the airways. Furthermore, thyme tea's antioxidant qualities strengthen the immune system, promoting faster recovery.

Consequently, these properties position thyme tea as an effective natural remedy for laryngitis symptoms, providing both soothing relief and combating the root cause of the ailment.

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

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

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

  1. In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme to the boiling water.
  3. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the thyme leaves.
  5. Sip the warm thyme tea, allowing it to soothe your laryngitis for at least 15-20 minutes.

7. Sage

Sage tea provides relief for laryngitis due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which reduce swelling in the throat and alleviate coughing spasms.

The rosmarinic acid in sage tea inhibits the production of substances that cause inflammation, while its soothing effect coats the throat, providing immediate comfort. Furthermore, sage tea's antibacterial properties help fight off any potential infection contributing to laryngitis, promoting a faster recovery.

Additionally, sage tea's astringent qualities help tighten and tone throat tissues, reducing irritation and discomfort.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in sage tea that aid with laryngitis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage tea for laryngitis.

  1. In a small pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, then add 2 teaspoons of dried sage leaves.
  2. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the sage leaves.
  4. Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature.
  5. Sip the sage tea, aiming for a total consumption of 1-2 cups per day.

8. Echinacea

Echinacea tea contains active compounds, such as alkamides and caffeic acid, that possess anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

These properties help reduce swelling in the larynx, thereby alleviating the pain and discomfort associated with laryngitis. Echinacea also has antiviral and antibacterial effects, which aid in fighting off infections causing laryngitis. Furthermore, it stimulates the production of white blood cells, enhancing the body's ability to combat illness.

Lastly, echinacea tea soothes irritated throats by providing a warm and comforting sensation, while its mild analgesic qualities help minimize the need for over-the-counter pain relievers.

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

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

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

  1. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea flowers or 4 tablespoons of fresh echinacea flowers.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove the echinacea flowers, discarding the solids.
  4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. Serve the tea while hot, up to three times a day, for laryngitis relief.

9. Goldenseal

Goldenseal tea helps with laryngitis due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

This herbal tea contains berberine, a compound known to reduce inflammation in the mucous membranes, including the larynx. Moreover, goldenseal tea's antibacterial qualities help fight off infections causing laryngitis, thus promoting a faster recovery. Additionally, this tea soothes sore throats by creating a protective coating on the mucous membranes.

Lastly, goldenseal tea boosts the immune system, increasing the body's ability to combat the laryngitis-causing ailment.

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

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

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

  1. In a saucepan, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried goldenseal root, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove goldenseal pieces, discarding the solid remnants.
  4. Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature, typically 5-10 minutes.
  5. Sip the goldenseal tea slowly, aiming to finish 2-3 cups throughout the day.

10. Turmeric

Turmeric tea provides relief from laryngitis due to its active ingredient, curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound works by inhibiting the production of inflammation-causing molecules, thus reducing swelling in the throat. Furthermore, curcumin's antibacterial qualities combat infection, a common cause of laryngitis. Turmeric tea also soothes irritation, creating a protective barrier in the throat.

Additionally, this warming beverage helps loosen mucus, promoting its elimination and alleviating congestion.

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

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

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

  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 lower the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a mug, pressing on the turmeric solids to extract all liquid.
  4. Stir in honey and lemon juice to taste (optional, but recommended for soothing a sore throat).
  5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day as needed.

What is laryngitis and how can it affect your life?

Laryngitis is a medical condition that causes inflammation of the larynx, also known as the voice box.

This results in a hoarse or weak voice, and in severe cases, complete loss of voice. Laryngitis can impact people's lives significantly, interfering with their ability to communicate effectively, perform their jobs, and engage in social activities. It can also cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty swallowing, further impacting a person's quality of life.

Children and professional voice users, such as singers and teachers, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of laryngitis.

What other natural remedies help with laryngitis?

Laryngitis, an inflammation of the larynx, often causes a hoarse or weak voice and, in severe cases, can result in a complete loss of voice.

Two of the most common and effective natural remedies for laryngitis are hydration and rest. Staying hydrated helps keep the vocal cords lubricated, reducing irritation and inflammation. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks, which can dehydrate the body.

Resting the voice is crucial for healing, so avoid talking, whispering, or straining the vocal cords. Additionally, using a humidifier can help keep the air moist, easing throat discomfort. Finally, steam inhalation can provide relief by loosening mucus and reducing swelling in the throat.

Incorporating these natural remedies into your routine can help alleviate the symptoms of laryngitis and promote faster healing.