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Last updated: Apr 16, 2024

10 best herbal teas for phlegm

Thyme and Echinacea herbal teas are renowned for their potent expectorant properties, effectively loosening and clearing phlegm from the respiratory tract.

Ginger tea, with its natural anti-inflammatory compounds, also helps to reduce congestion and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, Peppermint tea's cooling properties calm the throat and chest, making it an excellent choice for soothing phlegm-related issues. Meanwhile, Eleuthero root tea's adaptogenic properties support the immune system, further combating phlegm buildup.

By incorporating these herbal teas into your daily routine, you can experience relief from phlegm and breathe easier.

1. Licorice

Licorice tea's efficiency in alleviating phlegm results from two key active components: glycyrrhizin and flavonoids.

Glycyrrhizin possesses expectorant properties, which mean it loosens phlegm, making it easier to expel. Additionally, flavonoids have anti-inflammatory qualities, reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract and further soothing irritation. Simultaneously, licorice tea increases mucus production, facilitating the expulsion of accumulated phlegm from the airways.

This dual action of loosening and expelling phlegm, combined with its anti-inflammatory effects, makes licorice tea an effective aid in managing phlegm-related ailments.

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

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

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

  1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Turn off heat, add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves, and let the mixture steep for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the solids.
  4. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of honey, to taste, for added soothing properties.
  5. Drink the tea while still warm, up to three times a day, to help alleviate phlegm.

2. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus tea contains compounds, specifically eucalyptus oil, that possess expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties work to loosen phlegm in the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel. Furthermore, eucalyptus oil has mucolytic effects, breaking down mucus and decreasing its viscosity. Additionally, eucalyptus tea's warm temperature helps soothe irritated throats and encourages coughing, which aids in the removal of phlegm.

Finally, the anti-inflammatory properties of eucalyptus tea reduce irritation in the respiratory tract, alleviating discomfort and promoting better breathing.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in eucalyptus tea that aid with phlegm.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic eucalyptus tea for phlegm.

  1. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of dried eucalyptus leaves, and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea to remove eucalyptus leaves, and let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
  4. Optional: Add honey or lemon juice to taste.
  5. Serve and drink the tea slowly to soothe a sore throat and help break up phlegm.

3. Sage

Sage tea's ability to alleviate phlegm stems from its potent antibacterial and expectorant properties, derived from the rosmarinic acid and other active compounds it contains.

These components work together to reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, helping to soothe irritations that can cause excessive mucus production. Furthermore, sage tea's expectorant properties encourage the expulsion of accumulated phlegm, making it easier to eliminate congestion in the chest and throat. Additionally, sage tea's astringent qualities help tighten mucous membranes, which can decrease the amount of secreted phlegm.

Finally, this herbal remedy's antspasmodic effects relax the muscles of the trachea and bronchi, further easing the process of expelling phlegm and alleviating breathing difficulties.

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

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

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

  1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 2 teaspoons of fresh sage leaves.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat, add 1 teaspoon of honey (if desired for taste), and let it steep for 5 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the sage leaves.
  5. Enjoy your homemade sage tea, preferably between meals for best results in soothing phlegm.

4. Thyme

Thyme tea benefits phlegm reduction due to its expectorant properties, which liquefy and ease the expulsion of mucus.

This herbal remedy contains compounds like camphene and caryophyllene, which have antispasmodic and antibacterial effects, further soothing trachea-bronchial tree inflammation. Thyme's antimicrobial qualities target the respiratory tract's harmful pathogens, reducing phlegm production. Moreover, the hot temperature of thyme tea helps to alleviate congestion by provoking bronchial secretions, thus eliminating phlegm.

Ultimately, thyme tea's active components, such as flavonoids, possess anti-inflammatory properties, suppressing inflammation and calming throat irritation, further supporting phlegm reduction.

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

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

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

  1. In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves to the boiling water.
  3. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the thyme leaves.
  5. Drink the tea while it's still warm, up to three times a day.

5. Peppermint

Peppermint tea aids in reducing phlegm due to its active component, menthol.

This natural chemical brings about a cooling sensation, calming the throat and relaxing the muscles of the windpipe. As a result, it becomes easier to expel mucus and breathe smoothly. Moreover, peppermint tea boasts expectorant qualities, helping to loosen and eliminate phlegm from the respiratory tract, thereby alleviating congestion.

Finally, its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties soothe irritated throats and airways, providing immediate and lasting relief from bothersome phlegm.

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

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

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

  1. Crush 1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves or use 1 peppermint tea bag to release oils.
  2. Place the crushed leaves or tea bag in a tea infuser or strainer.
  3. Boil 8 ounces of water and let it cool for 1-2 minutes to reach a temperature of 170-180°F (77-82°C).
  4. Pour the hot water over the peppermint leaves or tea bag and steep for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Remove the tea infuser or strainer and enjoy your homemade peppermint tea.

6. Ginger

Ginger tea helps with phlegm due to its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe irritated throats and reduce inflammation.

This warm beverage contains compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which act as natural decongestants, helping to break down and expel phlegm. Furthermore, ginger tea's warmth stimulates circulation, promoting the movement of mucus through the body. Additionally, ginger tea offers hydration, which is vital for maintaining a well-functioning respiratory system.

Finally, ginger tea's antimicrobial qualities help protect against infections that can exacerbate phlegm production.

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

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

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

  1. Peel and grate 1 inch of fresh ginger, then let it steep in hot water for 10 minutes.
  2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of raw honey and stir until fully dissolved.
  3. Squeeze half a lemon into the tea and mix well.
  4. Optional: strain the tea to remove ginger pieces.
  5. Drink the tea while warm, up to three times a day for phlegm relief.

7. Slippery Elm

Slippery elm tea relieves phlegm due to its demulcent property, meaning it contains mucilage that soothes irritated membranes when in contact with moisture.

This mucilage forms a protective barrier over the mucous membranes, helping to reduce inflammation and ease irritation. As a result, the body's natural response to inflammation is reduced, leading to less production of phlegm. The tea's slippery consistency helps to coat and lubricate the throat, making it easier to expel excess phlegm.

Furthermore, slippery elm's high antioxidant content supports overall immune function, contributing to the reduction of phlegm caused by infections.

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

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

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

  1. Measure - Scoop 1 teaspoon of dried slippery elm bark into a tea infuser or loose in a teapot.
  2. Boil - Bring 1 cup of water to a boil, then pour it over the slippery elm bark.
  3. Steep - Allow the tea to steep, covered, for 5-10 minutes to draw out the medicinal compounds.
  4. Strain - Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea into a cup to remove the bark pieces.
  5. Serve - Sip the tea slowly, up to three times a day, to help soothe a phlegmy cough and irritated throat.

8. Marshmallow

Marshmallow tea's effectiveness against phlegm stems from the demulcent properties of its key ingredient, Althaea officinalis.

This herb contains a high mucilage content, which soothes irritated mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. When steeped in hot water, the mucilage transforms into a gel-like substance that coats and calms inflamed tissues. As this soothing layer comes into contact with phlegm, it helps to loosen and expel mucus, providing relief from congestion and discomfort.

Ultimately, marshmallow tea's unique composition offers a natural, time-tested approach to alleviating phlegm-related ailments.

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

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

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

  1. In a pot, combine 1 liter of water, 2 tablespoons of dried marshmallow root, and 1 cinnamon stick; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Remove pot from heat and add 1 tablespoon of dried thyme leaves; let the mixture steep for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or jug, discarding the solids.
  4. Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of honey (or to taste) and mix well until fully dissolved.
  5. Serve the marshmallow tea hot, optionally garnishing with a cinnamon stick or lemon slice.

9. Mullein

Mullein tea provides relief from phlegm due to its expectorant properties, which derive from its high mucilage content.

This mucilage, a type of carbohydrate, comes into contact with water and forms a soothing gel. This gel coats the throat and respiratory tract, helping to loosen phlegm. As a result, the body more easily expels the loosened phlegm, promoting clearer airways and reduced congestion.

Furthermore, mullein contains saponins, natural compounds that further aid expectoration by reducing surface tension of the phlegm, making it easier to cough up and expel.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mullein tea that aid with phlegm.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein tea for phlegm.

  1. In a stovetop kettle, boil 1 cup of water for every 2 teaspoons of dried mullein leaves.
  2. Place the recommended dosage of mullein leaves in a tea infuser or teapot.
  3. Pour the boiling water over the mullein leaves and let them steep for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea into a cup.
  5. Drink the mullein tea up to three times a day, as needed, to help alleviate phlegm.

10. Coltsfoot

Coltsfoot tea provides relief from phlegm due to its expectorant properties, which derive from its active compounds like mucilage and tannins.

These substances work together to soothe irritation in the respiratory tract, reducing the urge to cough. Simultaneously, coltsfoot tea loosens phlegm, making it easier to expel. Furthermore, it contains antispasmodic properties that alleviate muscle spasms, reducing the frequency of coughing fits.

By promoting fluidity and decreasing inflammation, coltsfoot tea effectively manages phlegm accumulation, making breathing easier.

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

The list below shows the primary active constituents in coltsfoot tea that aid with phlegm.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic coltsfoot tea for phlegm.

  1. Harvest coltsfoot flowers from a clean, pesticide-free environment; rinse and dry them thoroughly.
  2. Chop or grind 2 tablespoons of dried coltsfoot flowers; place them in a teapot or infuser.
  3. Pour 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water over the chopped flowers; let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea to remove the plant material; discard the solid remnants.
  5. Drink the coltsfoot tea tea while warm, up to three times a day, to help alleviate phlegm.

What is phlegm and how can it affect your life?

Phlegm is a type of mucus produced in the respiratory tract, particularly in the lungs and throat.

It plays a crucial role in protecting the respiratory system by trapping dust, germs, and other harmful particles, preventing them from reaching the lungs. However, an excessive production of phlegm can result in respiratory issues such as chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and bronchiectasis.

When phlegm is excessive, it can interfere with breathing, cause discomfort, and impact people's daily activities, leading to decreased quality of life.

What other natural remedies help with phlegm?

Several natural remedies are consistently effective at alleviating phlegm without the use of herbal teas.

Firstly, steam inhalation is a time-tested method that helps loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract. Simply fill a bowl with hot water, place your head over it, and cover yourself with a towel to trap the steam.

Adding a few drops of essential oils like eucalyptus or tea tree can further enhance the treatment. Additionally, increasing hydration through plain water, clear broths, or soups thins down the mucus, making it easier to expel. Moreover, incorporating spicy foods containing ingredients like ginger, garlic, or chili in meals can help reduce mucus production and alleviate congestion.

Lastly, practicing deep breathing and chest physical therapy techniques can help clear the airways and expel excess phlegm.