10 best herbal teas for snoring

A soothing cup of herbal tea before bedtime can work wonders for snorers.

Peppermint tea, with its cooling properties, helps reduce nasal congestion and opens up airways, promoting unobstructed breathing. Meanwhile, chamomile tea's calming effects relax the throat muscles, reducing vibrations that cause snoring. Additionally, ginger tea's natural anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling in the throat, further reducing snoring triggers.

By incorporating these teas into a pre-sleep routine, snorers may find relief from this frustrating sleep disruptor.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation, promoting muscle relaxation.

Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe the membranes in the nose and throat, easing breathing. Chamomile tea's calming effects on the mind and body promote better sleep, reducing snoring caused by sleep disorders. Furthermore, chamomile tea's muscle relaxant properties alleviate tension in the throat, allowing smoother airflow during sleep and less snoring.

Ultimately, regular consumption of chamomile tea can strengthen the immune system, contributing to overall health and reduced snoring.

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

• Flowers: Chamomile tea typically uses flowers due to their calming properties, which can potentially promote better sleep and reduce snoring.
• Leaves: The leaves are sometimes included in the tea as they contain antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate respiratory issues that cause snoring.
• Seeds: Chamomile seeds can be used in the tea for their essential oils, which can promote relaxation and soothe the digestive system, addressing one potential cause of snoring.

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid compound has been found to have sedative and muscle relaxant properties, which can help reduce snoring by relaxing the throat muscles and allowing for clearer airways during sleep.
• Chamazulene: This anti-inflammatory compound can help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and throat, which can help alleviate snoring caused by congestion or inflammation.
• Bisabolol: This terpene compound has anti-spasmodic properties, which can help relax the throat muscles and prevent the vibrations that cause snoring.
• Matricin: This compound is converted to chamazulene in the steam-distillation process, and has similar anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce snoring caused by inflammation.
• Spiroether: This compound has been shown to have anti-allergic properties, which can help reduce snoring caused by allergic reactions that lead to congestion and inflammation.

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

1. Boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes until it reaches a rolling boil.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to a tea infuser or teapot.
3. Pour the hot water over the chamomile flowers and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the tea infuser or strain the chamomile flowers from the teapot.
5. Drink the chamomile tea 30 minutes before bedtime for best results.

2. Peppermint

Peppermint tea brings immediate relief to the throat and nose, opening up obstructed airways and allowing for easier breathing.

This herbal tea's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling in the lining of the throat, while its natural muscle relaxants calm any tension in the nasal muscles. Furthermore, peppermint tea's menthol content soothes the throat, acting as a natural decongestant that shrinks swollen membranes, all of which greatly alleviate snoring.

Ultimately, by drinking peppermint tea regularly, one can significantly decrease their snoring, as well as improve their sleep quality.

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

• Leaves: Rich in menthol, the leaves help relax the throat muscles and alleviate snoring.
• Flowers: Containing rosmarinic acid, flowers reduce inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, easing congestion.
• Seeds: Packed with antioxidants, seeds support respiratory health and decrease snoring caused by congestion.

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

• Menthol: Acts as a natural decongestant and helps to relax the muscles of the throat, reducing snoring.
• Rosmarinic Acid: Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, allowing for easier breathing.
• Limonene: Known to have calming effects, helping to relax the body and potentially reducing snoring caused by tension in the throat muscles.
• Flavonoids: Can help to reduce inflammation, improve lung function, and promote better sleep, all of which can contribute to a reduction in snoring.

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

1. In a cup, add boiling water (1 cup) to dried peppermint leaves (1 teaspoon).
2. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the peppermint flavor to infuse.
3. Strain the tea to remove the leaves, leaving only the liquid.
4. Allow the tea to cool down to a drinkable temperature.
5. Drink the peppermint tea 30 minutes before sleeping.

3. Valerian

Valerian tea aids in reducing snoring due to its natural sedative properties, which originate from its active compounds that influence the central nervous system.

This tea's ability to promote relaxation and decrease nervous tension facilitates smoother muscle function in the throat, thereby reducing the likelihood of vibrations that cause snoring. Furthermore, valerian tea's potential to alleviate sleep disturbances allows for more restful sleep, lowering the overall frequency and intensity of snoring. It is important to note that, while valerian tea can help with snoring, individual experiences may vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional is always advisable.

Lastly, consistent ingestion of valerian tea, as part of a calming nighttime routine, can foster improved sleep quality and, consequently, diminished snoring.

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

• Roots: Valerian roots are rich in anti-snoring compounds that help relax throat muscles, reducing snoring.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of valerian contain medicinal properties that promote deep sleep and reduce snoring caused by sleep disturbances.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves have calming effects that help alleviate snoring caused by anxiety or stress-related tension.
• Flowers: Valerian flowers contain essential oils and active compounds that soothe the respiratory system, reducing congestion-related snoring.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in valerian tea that aid with snoring.

• Valepotriates: These compounds have been shown to have sedative and muscle relaxant properties, which can help reduce snoring by relaxing the muscles in the throat and reducing tension.
• Valerenic acid: This compound is known for its ability to increase the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which has a calming effect and can help reduce snoring by relaxing the nervous system and reducing anxiety.
• Flavanoids: These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling in the throat and nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing snoring.
• Essential oils: The essential oils found in valerian, such as camphene and pinene, have been shown to have a calming effect on the body and can help reduce snoring by promoting relaxation and reducing tension.
• Tannins: These compounds have astringent properties, which can help tighten and tone the throat and nasal passage tissues, reducing the likelihood of vibrations that cause snoring.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian tea for snoring.

1. In a stove-top teapot, add 1 teaspoon of dried valerian root to 1 cup of water.
2. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove the valerian root pieces.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the tea 30 minutes before bedtime to help reduce snoring.

4. Spearmint

Spearmint tea aids in snoring reduction due to its anti-inflammatory properties that shrink swollen nasal passages, allowing for clearer airflow.

This tea's soothing effect on the throat muscles promotes relaxation, reducing the likelihood of vibrations causing snoring. Spearmint's natural calming agents also alleviate stress and tension, preventing constricted airways from snoring. Furthermore, spearmint tea's antispasmodic qualities prevent incidents of involuntary muscle spasms in the throat, a known cause of snoring.

Finally, this herbal remedy addresses acid reflux, which can irritate the esophagus and contribute to snoring, by improving digestion and reducing acid production.

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

• Leaves: Rich in rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate snoring by reducing inflammation in the airways.
• Flowers: Contain flavonoids and essential oils with antispasmodic qualities, promoting muscle relaxation in the throat and reducing snoring.
• Seeds: Packed with rosmarinic acid and essential oils, they can help soothe irritations in the throat and minimize snoring frequency.
• Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid and essential oils that can help relax throat muscles, reducing snoring incidents.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in spearmint tea that aid with snoring.

• Menthol: Soothes and relaxes throat muscles, reducing inflammation and vibration that can cause snoring.
• Rosmarinic acid: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, helping to alleviate swelling in the nasal passages and throat, thus reducing snoring.
• Limonene: Promotes relaxation and stress relief, reducing muscle tension in the throat and allowing for easier breathing during sleep.
• 1,8-Cineole: Helps to clear nasal congestion and improve airflow, reducing the likelihood of snoring due to blocked nasal passages.
• Epicatechin: Supports vascular health and blood circulation, contributing to a clearer airway and reduced snoring.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic spearmint tea for snoring.

1. In a stovetop teapot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil, which typically takes around 10 minutes.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of dried spearmint leaves to the boiling water, letting it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the tea into a teacup or mug, discarding the spearmint leaves.
4. Optionally, add honey or lemon to taste for added flavor.
5. Drink the spearmint tea 30-60 minutes before bedtime to help alleviate snoring.

5. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus tea aids in reducing snoring due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which enable it to alleviate inflammation in the nasal passages and throat.

This tea's ability to thin and loosen mucus contributes to clear airways, promoting unobstructed breathing. Furthermore, eucalyptus tea's natural decongestant qualities help in draining the sinuses, diminishing the probability of nighttime snoring. Additionally, eucalyptus contains a compound named cineole, which has been shown to relax throat muscles, thereby maintaining open airways throughout sleep.

Finally, the soothing effect of eucalyptus tea on the respiratory system results in a more comfortable and quiet night's rest.

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

• Leaves: The leaves of the eucalyptus plant are rich in vital oils that help alleviate snoring by opening up nasal passages, promoting free breathing.
• Bark: The bark contains tannins that tighten mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and vibrations that cause snoring.
• Buds: Eucalyptus buds are a powerhouse of anti-inflammatory properties, helping to clear respiratory passages and alleviating snoring issues.
• Flowers: Eucalyptus flowers hold essential oils with soothing effects on the throat, providing comfort and reducing snoring.
• Seeds: Eucalyptus seeds contain a range of beneficial compounds known to help open airways and minimize snoring.

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

• Cineole: It is the major active ingredient in eucalyptus oil, which has anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and muscle relaxant properties, helping to clear the airways and reduce snoring.
• Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, making breathing easier and reducing snoring.
• Tannins: These astringent compounds can help tighten and dry mucous membranes, reducing congestion and swelling in the nasal passages, thus alleviating snoring.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe and reducing snoring.

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

1. In a stove-top pot, combine 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of dried eucalyptus leaves, and bring to a boil. (Preparation time: 5-10 minutes)
2. Reduce heat, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes.
3. Strain the tea to remove eucalyptus leaves, then let it cool down to a drinkable temperature.
4. Stir in honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
5. Drink 1 cup of the eucalyptus tea before bedtime to help alleviate snoring.

6. Lavender

Lavender tea aids in alleviating snoring due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling in the lining of the throat.

This tea's soothing qualities also relax throat muscles, minimizing vibrations that cause snoring. Furthermore, lavender tea's calming effects promote better sleep, as restful slumber often decreases the likelihood of snoring. Additionally, lavender tea's ability to open up airways ensures unobstructed breathing, thereby lessening instances of snoring.

Finally, this herbal tea's antispasmodic characteristics prevent abrupt muscle contractions, including those in the throat that contribute to snoring.

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

• Flowers: Lavender tea for snoring primarily uses flowers due to their soothing properties that help relax throat muscles, enabling quieter sleep.
• Leaves: The leaves, when included in the tea, bring anti-inflammatory benefits that can alleviate swelling in airways, reducing snoring.
• Buds: Lavender buds are rich in essential oils, providing a potent snore-relieving effect through promoting relaxation and easing respiratory issues.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with snoring.

• Linalool: This terpene alcohol has been found to have sedative and muscle-relaxing properties, which can help to reduce snoring by relaxing the muscles in the throat and reducing inflammation.
• Eucalyptol: This compound, also known as 1,8-cineole, has anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing effects, which can help to open up airways and reduce snoring by allowing for easier breathing.
• Camphor: This aromatic compound acts as a mild anesthetic and decongestant, which can help to reduce inflammation and clear blocked nasal passages, making it easier to breathe and reducing snoring.
• Rosmarinic acid: This polyphenol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to reduce swelling in the throat and nasal passages, reducing snoring by improving airflow.
• Alpha-pinene: This compound, found in the essential oils of lavender, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to open up airways and reduce snoring by allowing for easier breathing.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for snoring.

1. Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot or kettle for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of dried lavender flowers or 1 lavender teabag to a teapot or mug.
3. Pour the boiling water over the lavender in the teapot or mug.
4. Steep the tea for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Strain out the lavender flowers before drinking, if using loose leaves. Enjoy your soothing lavender tea up to 3 times a day.

7. Licorice

Licorice tea contains glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.

This compound helps reduce swelling in the throat and eases breathing, thereby lessening snoring. Moreover, licorice tea's soothing effects on the nervous system promote relaxation, which can alleviate tension in the throat muscles and further reduce snoring. Additionally, licorice tea's potential to encourage mucus secretion aids in clearing nasal passages, providing an alternative route for smooth breathing and thus minimizing snoring incidences.

Finally, the natural expectorant qualities of licorice tea help clear respiratory tracts, contributing to unobstructed airflow and decreased snoring.

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

• Roots: The roots of the licorice plant contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation in the throat, potentially alleviating snoring.
• Stems: The stems of the licorice plant contain flavonoids that help relax throat muscles, reducing the vibrations that cause snoring.
• Leaves: The leaves of the licorice plant have isoflavonoids, known to reduce swelling in the respiratory system, thus reducing snoring.
• Flowers: The flowers of the licorice plant contain antioxidants that help soothe throat irritation, potentially reducing snoring.
• Seeds: The seeds of the licorice plant have glycosides, which help clear blocked airways, thereby reducing snoring.

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

• Glycyrrhizin: It is the most prominent compound in licorice, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It may help reduce swelling in the lining of the nose and throat, which can cause snoring.
• Liquiritin: This flavonoid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It may help alleviate inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, potentially reducing snoring.
• Liquiritigenin: This flavonoid has been found to relax smooth muscles, which can help in reducing airway resistance and subsequently decreasing snoring.

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

1. In a teapot, combine 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root with 8 ounces of boiling water.
2. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to be extracted.
3. Strain the tea to remove the licorice root pieces.
4. Optionally, add honey or lemon to taste.
5. Drink the tea 30-60 minutes before bedtime for best results in reducing snoring.

8. Marjoram

Marjoram tea contains essential oils and antispasmodic properties that relax throat muscles, reducing the likelihood of snoring.

This tea's anti-inflammatory qualities alleviate inflammation in the nasal passages and throat, further preventing snoring. The rosmarinic acid in marjoram tea provides a natural antihistamine effect, clearing airways for easier breathing. Moreover, marjoram tea's soothing warmth soothes irritations, calming the nerves around the neck and throat and promoting a quieter, more restful sleep.

Ultimately, drinking marjoram tea before bed creates a favorable environment for a peaceful night's sleep, devoid of disruptive snoring.

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

• Leaves: Rich in antispasmodic properties, leaves of marjoram ease respiratory tract spasms, alleviating snoring.
• Flowers: Containing calming compounds, marjoram flowers promote relaxation, reducing snoring caused by tension.
• Seeds: Packed with essential oils, marjoram seeds offer anti-inflammatory benefits, soothing swollen airways and lessening snoring.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marjoram tea that aid with snoring.

• Terpinen-4-ol: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling in the nasal passages and throat, potentially reducing snoring.
• γ-Terpinene: This compound has been shown to have a relaxing effect on the tracheal muscles, which can help alleviate narrowed airways and reduce snoring.
• Eucalyptol: This compound has expectorant and nasal decongestant properties, which can help clear blocked nasal passages and reduce snoring.
• α-Pinene: This compound has bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help widen airways and reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating snoring.
• Sabinene: This compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which can help clear nasal passages and reduce swelling in the throat, potentially alleviating snoring.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marjoram tea for snoring.

1. In a stove-top pot, boil 1 cup of water per person for 5-10 minutes.
2. Crush 1-2 teaspoons of dried marjoram leaves per person and add to boiling water.
3. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into cups, discarding the spent marjoram leaves.
5. Serve the marjoram tea hot, up to three times a day, for a minimum of two weeks for snoring relief.

9. Sage

Sage tea provides relief from snoring due to its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

This herbal tea, derived from the Salvia officinalis plant, tones the membranes of the mouth, throat, and tongue, reducing the likelihood of vibrations that cause snoring. Sage tea's rosmarinic acid content relaxes muscles, preventing the throat's over-relaxation that often results in snoring. Moreover, sage tea's astringent properties tighten the tissues of the throat, thus minimizing the narrowing of the airways that contributes to snoring.

Finally, sage tea's soothing effects alleviate throat irritations, addressing another prominent cause of snoring.

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

• Roots: The roots of the sage plant contain rosmarinic acid, which is known to reduce inflammation and swelling of airways, alleviating snoring.
• Leaves: The leaves of sage plants have antispasmodic properties, helping to relax the muscles in the throat and reduce snoring.
• Flowers: Sage flowers contain calming compounds that help decrease inflammation and ease breathing, reducing the likelihood of snoring.
• Seeds: Sage seeds are rich in essential oils and antioxidants, providing anti-inflammatory benefits that can help alleviate snoring.

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

• Rosmarinic acid: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the throat and nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing and reduced snoring.
• Carnosic acid: A potent antioxidant, carnosic acid helps protect cells from damage, which can contribute to improved respiratory function and less snoring.
• Camphor: As a natural decongestant, camphor can help clear blocked nasal passages, promoting easier breathing and reducing snoring.
• 1,8-Cineole: This compound has been shown to have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help relax throat muscles and reduce snoring.
• α-Pinene: This compound has bronchodilatory properties, which can help open up airways and reduce snoring caused by restricted airflow.

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

1. In a stove-top pot, boil 2 cups of water for 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh sage leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried sage, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes.
3. Remove pot from heat, cover and let the tea steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain out the sage leaves and optionally add honey or lemon to taste.
5. Drink this soothing sage tea 30-60 minutes before bedtime for best results.

10. Thyme

Thyme tea's value in reducing snoring stems from its anti-inflammatory properties, which derive from compounds like rosmarinic acid.

These compounds diminish inflammation in the throat and nasal passageways, thereby promoting improved breathing. Thyme also boasts expectorant qualities, facilitating the clearing of airways from mucus and phlegm. Moreover, thyme's soothing effects on the throat and vocal cords contribute to reduced snoring.

Lastly, thyme tea's antispasmodic attributes relax throat muscles, further minimizing snoring incidences.

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

• Leaves: Rich in fragrant oils, thyme leaves are used in medicinal tea for snoring due to their strong antispasmodic properties that help relax throat muscles.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers contain potent flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory effects, making them an ideal addition to medicinal tea to soothe airways and reduce snoring.
• Stems: Thyme stems contain rosmarinic acid, a compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate swelling and reduce snoring when consumed as a medicinal tea.

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

• Thymol: Thymol, a monoterpene diol, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce snoring by clearing airways and alleviating inflammation.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a phenol, contributes to thyme's antispasmodic effects, potentially relieving spasms in the throat that can cause snoring.
• Linalool: Linalool, a terpene alcohol, exhibits calming and sedative effects, which may help reduce snoring by relaxing throat muscles.
• α-Pinene: α-Pinene, a monoterpene, has bronchodilator effects, making it easier to breathe through the nose, thus reducing the likelihood of snoring.
• Geraniol: Geraniol, a monoterpene alcohol, has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, thus alleviating snoring.
• Nerolidol: Nerolidol, a sesquiterpene alcohol, has shown anti-snoring effects by reducing inflammation and relaxing throat muscles, contributing to smoother breathing.
• Camphene: Camphene, a bicyclic monoterpene, may help alleviate snoring by improving respiratory function and reducing nasal congestion.

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

1. In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of fresh or 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 still warm, up to three times a day.

What is snoring and how can it affect your life?

Snoring is the act of noisy breathing during sleep, produced when air passes through relaxed tissues in the throat, causing vibrations.

This common condition impacts people's lives in various negative ways. For one, it disrupts normal sleep patterns, often leading to excessive daytime sleepiness, fatigue, and reduced concentration. Additionally, it can strain relationships due to noise disturbances, particularly for bed partners.

Furthermore, consistent snoring might indicate underlying health issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can heighten the risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications over time.

What other natural remedies help with snoring?

A common and effective natural remedy for snoring is throat exercises.

Regular practice of these exercises helps strengthen the muscles in the throat and palate, reducing tissue collapse and the resulting vibrations that cause snoring. Another natural solution is losing weight, as excess fat around the neck can put pressure on the airways and lead to snoring.

Elevating the head during sleep is also a simple yet powerful method to prevent snoring. By adding extra pillows or using a specially designed bed riser, the upper body is raised, which helps keep the airways open and unobstructed.

Lastly, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and ensuring adequate sleep duration can contribute to reduced snoring, as fatigue and irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate the issue.