By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Throat Pain
Herbal teas for throat pain are natural remedies that provide relief from sore throats, inflammation, and discomfort.
These teas are made from plants rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as slippery elm, licorice root, and chamomile. They help soothe and calm the throat, reducing pain and swelling. Examples include peppermint tea, which eases congestion, and ginger tea, which reduces inflammation.
By consuming these teas, people can find comfort and relief, improving their quality of life and ability to communicate effectively.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for throat pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Thymus vulgaris
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Stevia rebaudiana
- 6. Calendula officinalis
- 7. Myrtus communis
- 8. Achillea millefolium
- 9. Eucalyptus globulus
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for throat pain?
- What ailments similar to throat pain are treated with herbal teas?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
The active compounds in Echinacea purpurea, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, have been shown to reduce swelling and combat infections in the throat, providing relief from soreness and discomfort. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes, promoting a faster recovery from throat irritations and infections.
This makes Echinacea purpurea teas a popular natural remedy for throat pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with throat pain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with throat pain, thereby alleviating symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: The antioxidant properties of phenolic acids in Echinacea purpurea tea help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to the relief of throat pain.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in the tea have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which aid in reducing throat inflammation and fighting off infections that cause throat pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for throat pain.
- Roots: The roots are used because they contain a high concentration of alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe throat pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they have a calming effect and contain flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and ease throat discomfort.
- Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain flavonoids and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate throat pain and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for throat pain.
- Harvest dried roots of echinacea purpurea for making tea by gathering them during the fall season.
- Dry the harvested roots completely in a well-ventilated area for up to 2 weeks.
- Grind 1 teaspoon of dried echinacea purpurea roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground roots in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids then drink it immediately while it is still warm.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the mucous membranes.
The saponins present in licorice root have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat, providing relief from pain and discomfort caused by sore throats, colds, and other respiratory issues.
Additionally, the tea's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus, further alleviating throat pain and congestion.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with throat pain.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid saponins have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the throat.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help soothe and calm irritated throat tissues, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce swelling, kill bacteria, and promote healing in the throat, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for throat pain.
- Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and pain.
- Leaves: They contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin and other anti-inflammatory compounds, making them a secondary choice for throat pain relief.
- Buds: They are used in some herbal remedies for throat issues, although their use is less common than roots or leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for throat pain.
- Harvest 20-30 dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra by selecting them from mature plants that have been dried properly.
- Rinse the dried roots in cold water to remove any impurities then pat them dry with a clean cloth.
- Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for easier infusion.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the powdered root with 1 cup of boiling water to create a strong tea infusion.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water effectively.
3. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with throat pain because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds, such as carvacrol and thymol, in thyme tea have been shown to reduce inflammation and combat bacterial and viral infections that cause throat pain.
Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus, providing relief from congestion and coughing, making it a popular natural remedy for soothing sore throats and promoting overall respiratory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with throat pain.
- Thymol: Thymol is a monoterpene that helps with throat pain by its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and combat bacterial infections in the throat.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm the throat, reducing inflammation and pain.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles in the throat and reduce pain and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for throat pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are the primary source of thymol, a compound responsible for the herb's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing throat pain.
- Flowers: Thyme flowers contain essential oils that help to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, providing relief from throat pain and discomfort.
- Stems: Thyme stems are also a good source of thymol and other essential oils, which can be used to create teas that help to alleviate throat pain and promote recovery.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for throat pain.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers from the garden or store-bought.
- Rinse the thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers with cold water to remove dirt and impurities.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried thymus vulgaris in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the thymus vulgaris tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth immediately.
- Serve the thymus vulgaris tea warm or at room temperature within 30 minutes of preparation.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the throat. The warm and soothing properties of ginger tea also help to calm the throat muscles, providing quick relief from irritation and inflammation.
Regular consumption of ginger tea has been found to alleviate symptoms of sore throats and promote overall respiratory well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with throat pain.
- Gingerols: These compounds, particularly 6-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, similar to gingerols, possess anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help alleviate throat pain and discomfort.
- Zingerone: Zingerone is a phenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, as well as promote healing and recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for throat pain.
- Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part due to its high concentration of active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: Although less commonly used, some tea products may include the stems of Zingiber officinale, which contain smaller amounts of active compounds that can contribute to the tea's medicinal effects.
- Leaves: In some Asian cultures, the leaves of Zingiber officinale are used to make teas, but this is less common than using the rhyzomes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for throat pain.
- Rinse the dried root of zingiber officinale under cold running water for 2 minutes.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried root and add it to a tea infuser.
- Place the tea infuser into a teapot containing 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 7 minutes or until the desired strength is reached.
- Strain the tea into a cup and serve immediately while hot.
5. Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia rebaudiana, also known as stevia, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant contain compounds like stevioside and rebaudioside, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease irritation in the throat.
Additionally, stevia teas often include other herbs like peppermint and eucalyptus, which provide a cooling and decongesting effect, helping to relieve throat pain and discomfort associated with colds, allergies, and other respiratory issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stevia rebaudiana teas that help with throat pain.
- Steviol glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and soothe the throat by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals and reducing the swelling of mucous membranes.
- Kaempferol: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, Kaempferol helps alleviate throat pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines that contribute to pain and inflammation.
- Quercetin: A powerful flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Quercetin helps reduce throat pain by inhibiting the production of histamine, a chemical involved in allergic reactions and pain, and by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stevia used to make teas for throat pain.
- Leaves: Infused leaves of Stevia rebaudiana are used to make teas for throat pain, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Roots: Stevia rebaudiana roots are used to make teas for throat pain, as they contain glycosides that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: The stems of Stevia rebaudiana are used to make teas for throat pain, as they contain compounds that have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce discomfort and inflammation in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stevia for throat pain.
- Harvest stevia rebaudiana leaves and flowers from mature plants for optimal sweetness and flavor.
- Cut the leaves and flowers into small pieces and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried stevia rebaudiana leaves and flowers with 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to ensure a smooth and refreshing drink.
- Serve the herbal stevia rebaudiana tea immediately and enjoy its sweet and slightly earthy flavor.
6. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Calendula officinalis have been shown to reduce swelling and combat bacterial and viral infections in the throat. Additionally, its soothing and cooling effects help to calm the mucous membranes, providing relief from irritation and discomfort.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to ease throat pain and promote a speedy recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with throat pain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and soothe irritated throat tissues, alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Calendula officinalis teas exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and alleviate throat pain.
- Carotenoids: Beta-carotene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain associated with throat irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for throat pain.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm irritated throat tissues.
- Leaves: They are used because of their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing throat inflammation and fighting infections.
- Stems: They are used for their astringent properties, which help reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, promoting a sense of relief and comfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for throat pain.
- Harvest the calendula flowers at peak bloom time for maximum potency and vibrant color.
- Dry the freshly harvested flowers in a warm and well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers per 8 oz of boiling water.
- Steep the dried flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the calendula tea hot or cold.
7. Myrtus communis
Myrtus communis, also known as myrtle, teas helps with throat pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The essential oils present in myrtle leaves, such as eugenol and myrtenol, have been shown to reduce swelling and combat bacterial and fungal infections that can cause throat irritation. Additionally, myrtle's expectorant properties help loosen and clear mucus from the throat, providing relief from coughs and sore throats.
This natural remedy offers a soothing and effective solution for throat pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Myrtus communis teas that help with throat pain.
- Catechins: Catechins, a type of phenolic compound, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and soothe the throat, alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Linalool: Linalool, a terpene, has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat infections and reduce inflammation in the throat, making it an effective remedy for throat pain.
- Cinnamaldehyde: Cinnamaldehyde, an aromatic compound, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat, making it an effective natural remedy for soothing throat irritations.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of myrtle used to make teas for throat pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are often used to make teas due to their high content of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe throat pain.
- Flowers: The flowers of Myrtus communis are used in teas to provide relief from throat pain due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: The buds of the plant are sometimes used in teas for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce throat pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic myrtle for throat pain.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh leaves from the plant in the early morning.
- Dry the leaves in a warm place at 40-50 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Measure out 2-3 teaspoons of dried leaves for every 250 milliliters of water.
- Steep the leaves in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain and serve the tea immediately after preparation, without adding any sweeteners or additives.
8. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to soothe and calm the throat muscles.
The tea is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Its expectorant properties also aid in loosening and clearing mucus from the throat, making it easier to breathe and swallow.
Additionally, yarrow tea's antimicrobial properties help to combat infections, further alleviating throat pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with throat pain.
- Chlorogenic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and pain in the throat by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Achillachalcone: A chalcone compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps soothe and calm throat irritation, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Apigenin: A flavone compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate pain and inflammation in the throat, promoting relaxation and reducing throat congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for throat pain.
- Leaves: Achillea millefolium leaves are used to make teas for throat pain because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe and calm irritated tissues.
- Flowers: The flowers of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for throat pain due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for throat pain because they contain a compound called sesquiterpene lactone, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for throat pain.
- Harvest fresh or dried flowers of the plant in large quantities for tea making purposes.
- Dry the harvested flowers thoroughly in a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers for a standard 8 oz tea serving.
- Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to obtain a clear herbal tea drink.
9. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with throat pain because of its decongestant properties.
The tea's active ingredient, eucalyptol, breaks down mucus and relieves congestion in the nasal passages and throat. This helps to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues. The cooling sensation of the tea also provides instant relief from scratchy throats and soreness.
By promoting easy breathing and relaxation of the throat muscles, Eucalyptus globulus tea offers a natural and effective solution for alleviating throat discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with throat pain.
- Cineole: This terpene acts as a natural decongestant, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, which can cause pain and discomfort.
- Β-caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the throat, providing relief from discomfort and irritation.
- Α-pinene: This terpene has a decongestant effect, helping to clear mucus and reduce inflammation in the throat, which can cause pain and discomfort, and also has a numbing effect that can help alleviate pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for throat pain.
- Leaves: Used for their decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and calm the throat.
- Buds: Employed for their oil content, which is rich in eucalyptol, a compound that helps relieve congestion and ease throat discomfort.
- Barks: Utilized for their antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and infection in the throat, promoting a faster recovery.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for throat pain.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh or dried eucalyptus globulus leaves or 2 teaspoons of dried leaves.
- Dry the harvested eucalyptus globulus leaves in a single layer at 105 to 115 degrees fahrenheit for 1 hour.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 1 cup of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the eucalyptus globulus mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Strain the eucalyptus globulus tea and discard the solids before serving.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with throat pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties and natural soothing effects.
The plant's root and leaves contain compounds that reduce swelling and ease irritation in the throat. Additionally, the tea's diuretic properties help to flush out excess fluids and mucus, providing relief from congestion and discomfort.
The antimicrobial properties of Taraxacum officinale also help to combat infections and promote healing in the throat, making it a popular remedy for sore throats and respiratory issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with throat pain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce swelling and combat bacterial or viral infections that may be causing throat pain.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate throat irritation and swelling, thereby reducing discomfort associated with throat pain.
- Terpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress in the throat, thereby alleviating throat pain and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for throat pain.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties to soothe and calm the throat.
- Flowers: Utilized for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and ease pain in the throat.
- Roots: Employed for their antibacterial and antiviral properties to combat infections and promote healing in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for throat pain.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh dandelion flowers and leaves from a clean area in early morning to minimize moisture content.
- Rinse the dandelion flowers and leaves with cold water to remove dirt and impurities from the surface.
- Chop the dandelion flowers and leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase the surface area.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped dandelion flowers and leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids and discard the dandelion pieces.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for throat pain?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with throat pain is a soothing blend of ginger, slippery elm, and licorice root.
Ginger tea helps reduce inflammation and calms the throat, while slippery elm coats and protects the mucous membranes, reducing irritation. Licorice root, with its anti-inflammatory properties, further eases discomfort and promotes healing.
Drinking a combination of these teas can provide quick relief from sore throats, colds, and flu, allowing you to recover faster and feel better.
What ailments similar to throat pain are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to throat pain that are treated with herbal teas are colds, coughs, and sinusitis.
Herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe irritated throats and reduce inflammation. Teas like peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger also ease congestion and open airways to relieve respiratory issues.
These herbal teas can provide natural relief from discomfort and promote recovery when consumed hot or warm.