By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Sore Throat

Herbal teas for sore throat are a natural remedy that helps to soothe and calm the throat, providing relief from discomfort and pain.

These teas are made from various herbs and plants that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, effectively reducing swelling and fighting off infections. The best herbal teas for sore throat include Glycyrrhiza glabra, Echinacea purpurea, Sambucus nigra, Zingiber officinale, Thymus vulgaris, Ulmus rubra, Eucalyptus globulus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Echinacea angustifolia, and Althaea officinalis.

If left untreated, a sore throat can lead to missed work, social isolation, and a general decline in overall well-being, making it essential to incorporate these herbal teas into one's treatment plan.

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The root of the licorice plant contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that reduces swelling and irritation in the throat. This natural remedy has been used for centuries to calm sore throats and promote healing.

By reducing inflammation and providing a soothing sensation, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas provide quick relief from a sore throat, making it a popular choice for those looking for a natural solution to alleviate discomfort and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with sore throat.

• Saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes, providing relief from sore throat discomfort.
• Flavonoids: Acting as antioxidants, flavonoids help protect the throat from oxidative stress and promote healing, reducing the severity of sore throat symptoms.
• Glycyrrhizin: This compound has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm the throat and reduce pain associated with sore throat.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for sore throat.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which provides anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are used in teas for their secondary glycosides, which offer additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Flowers: The flowers are used in herbal teas for their sweet flavor and potential antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the throat.

2. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the throat.

The herbal tea contains compounds like alkylamides and polyphenols, which have been shown to boost the immune system and fight off viral infections that cause sore throats. By reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system, Echinacea purpurea teas provide relief from sore throats, allowing for faster recovery and reduced discomfort.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to combat respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with sore throat.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and fight off viral infections that cause sore throat, thereby alleviating symptoms.
• Caffeic acid derivatives: These phenolic compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses that contribute to sore throat infections.
• Alkylphenols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce pain and discomfort associated with sore throat, as well as protect the throat from further damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea purpurea used to make teas for sore throat.

• Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of compounds like alkylamides, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties and potential pain relief.
• Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea purpurea are rich in antioxidants, which can help soothe and calm irritated tissues in the throat, reducing discomfort and inflammation.
• Flowers: The flowers are a primary source of echinacosides, which have been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, helping to stimulate the body's natural defenses and alleviate sore throat symptoms.

3. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra teas helps with sore throat because of its high concentration of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and tannins.

These compounds have potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to combat the underlying infection causing the sore throat. By reducing inflammation and fighting off invading pathogens, Sambucus nigra teas provide relief from discomfort and promote a faster recovery.

Additionally, its soothing and astringent properties help to calm and protect the mucous membranes, providing a comforting and restorative experience.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with sore throat.

• Flavonoids: They have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the throat.
• Phenolic acids: They exhibit antimicrobial activity, which helps combat the underlying infections causing the sore throat.
• Isoflavones: They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate throat irritation and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Sambucus nigra used to make teas for sore throat.

• Leaves: They are rich in salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps reduce pain and inflammation.
• Flowers: They are high in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat.
• Fruits: They are a good source of antioxidants and contain compounds that have antimicrobial properties, helping to combat infections that cause sore throats.

4. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease pain in the throat.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to have antimicrobial effects, helping to combat infections that may be causing the soreness. Additionally, ginger's natural antispasmodic properties can help relax the throat muscles, making it easier to swallow and speak.

This makes ginger tea a popular natural remedy for soothing a sore throat.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with sore throat.

• Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, providing relief from soreness.
• Shogaols: As potent anti-inflammatory agents, shogaols help reduce inflammation and ease the discomfort associated with a sore throat.
• Volatile oils: These oils have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections causing sore throats, while also providing a soothing and calming effect on the throat.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for sore throat.

• Roots: Used to make teas for sore throat because they have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues and provide relief from coughs and sore throats.
• Leaves: Used to make teas for sore throat because they possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce throat inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

5. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris teas helps with sore throat because it contains thymol, a natural antiseptic compound that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Thymol works by reducing swelling and killing the bacteria that cause infections, such as strep throat. The tea's soothing and decongestant properties also help to calm the throat and reduce pain. Additionally, thymol's antioxidant properties help to protect the throat from further damage, promoting a speedy recovery from sore throat.

This makes Thymus vulgaris teas a popular natural remedy for soothing and healing sore throats.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with sore throat.

• Thymol: Thymol has antimicrobial properties that help to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infection and inflammation in the throat, leading to soreness.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain in the throat, providing relief from soreness and discomfort.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the throat, which can contribute to soreness and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Thymus vulgaris used to make teas for sore throat.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe a sore throat.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are also used for teas as they contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the throat.
• Stems: Thyme stems, particularly the young ones, are sometimes used for teas as they possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate throat discomfort and promote healing.

6. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the throat.

The tea's mucilaginous compounds soothe and calm the mucous membranes, providing relief from irritation and discomfort. Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties help combat infections that can cause sore throats. The tea's natural soothing and calming effects also help to promote a good night's sleep, which is essential for the body's natural healing processes to take over.

This helps to speed up recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with sore throat.

• Tannins: Tannins help reduce inflammation and ease pain in the throat by binding to proteins and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as salicylic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and swelling in the throat.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids like quercetin have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help soothe the throat, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Ulmus rubra used to make teas for sore throat.

• Leaves: Ulmus rubra leaves are used to make teas for sore throat because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
• Barks: Ulmus rubra barks are used to make teas for sore throat due to their soothing and antiseptic properties, which aid in healing and protecting the throat.
• Roots: Ulmus rubra roots are used to make teas for sore throat because of their expectorant properties, which help loosen and clear mucus, reducing throat congestion and discomfort.

7. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus teas helps with sore throat because its decongestant properties ease congestion and promote drainage, reducing swelling in the throat.

The tea's expectorant properties also help loosen and clear mucus, making it easier to swallow and talk. Additionally, eucalyptus globulus contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce throat irritation and pain, providing quick relief from discomfort.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe and calm the throat, providing a natural solution for sore throats.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with sore throat.

• Cineole: Helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the throat, which in turn alleviates sore throat symptoms.
• Quercetin: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps to reduce swelling and pain in the throat.
• Catechin: Exhibits antimicrobial properties, which helps to combat infections that can cause sore throat and promote healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Eucalyptus globulus used to make teas for sore throat.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most used part due to their high eucalyptol content, which provides anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.
• Barks: The barks are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and protect the throat.
• Stems: The stems are used for their eucalyptol content, similar to the leaves, which helps to ease congestion and reduce inflammation in the throat.

8. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease pain in the throat.

The tea's natural antimicrobial compounds also combat infections that can cause sore throats. Additionally, the antioxidants present in the tea help protect the throat from oxidative stress and promote healing.

By soothing and calming the throat, Rosmarinus officinalis teas provide quick relief from sore throats, making them a popular remedy for colds, flu, and other respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis teas that help with sore throat.

• Carnosic acid: This compound exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with a sore throat.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a potent antioxidant, rosmarinic acid can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to throat irritation.
• Bornyl acetate: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off infections and reduce bacterial load, alleviating symptoms of a sore throat.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Rosmarinus officinalis used to make teas for sore throat.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas for sore throat because of their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and calm the throat.
• Flowers: They are used to make teas for sore throat because of their antiseptic and expectorant properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote the clearance of mucus.
• Buds: They are used to make teas for sore throat because of their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and fight off infections.

9. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia teas helps with sore throat because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues in the throat.

The plant's rich content of alkylamides and caffeic acid also contribute to its ability to combat viral and bacterial infections, promoting a faster recovery and alleviating discomfort.

Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate the underlying cause of the sore throat, providing quick relief and promoting a healthy recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with sore throat.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and pain associated with a sore throat by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Alkaloids: Alkaloids in Echinacea angustifolia tea have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying infection causing the sore throat.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in the tea possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the mucous membranes of the throat, reducing discomfort and pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea angustifolia used to make teas for sore throat.

• Roots: They are used for their medicinal properties, particularly to treat respiratory issues, including sore throats.
• Leaves: They are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate throat inflammation and pain.
• Roots: Some herbalists also recommend using roots for their ability to boost the immune system, which can help prevent sore throat infections.

10. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The marshmallow root contains mucilages, which form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort. This helps to calm the throat and promote healing, making it easier to swallow and speak. The tea's anti-inflammatory effects also help to reduce swelling and pain, providing quick relief from a sore throat.

Regular consumption can also help to soothe and protect the throat from further irritation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with sore throat.

• Mucilages: They help to form a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with a sore throat.
• Flavonoids: They possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the throat.
• Glycosides: They have soothing and demulcent properties, which help to calm and protect the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort in the throat.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Althaea officinalis used to make teas for sore throat.

• Roots: They contain high amounts of mucilage, a natural gel-like substance that helps to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
• Leaves: They have similar properties to the roots, with mucilage content that can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the throat.
• Stems: They also contain mucilage, which can help to calm and protect the throat, making them a useful addition to throat-soothing teas.