10 Best Herbal Teas For Flu

Herbal teas for flu are natural remedies made from plants that help alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu.

They work by soothing the throat, reducing fever, and boosting the immune system. Examples of herbal teas that help with flu include ginger, peppermint, and echinacea.

These teas can improve lives by providing relief from congestion, coughing, and body aches, allowing individuals to recover faster and with less discomfort.

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The following article describes in detail the most important teas for flu, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with flu because of its potent immunomodulatory properties.

Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, Echinacea purpurea stimulates the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting off viral infections. Additionally, it has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sore throat, and body aches, making it a popular natural remedy for colds and flu.

Its antimicrobial properties also help reduce the severity and duration of the illness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Caffeic acid: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, helping to reduce the severity of flu symptoms and protect against oxidative stress.
• Ishaginin: Exhibits immunomodulatory properties, enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms to fight off viral infections and reduce the duration of flu symptoms.
• Cichoric acid: Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities, inhibiting the replication of flu viruses and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to flu severity.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for flu.

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of active compounds, including alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, which are believed to boost the immune system.
• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate flu symptoms.
• Flowers: They contain a high amount of alkylamides, which are thought to stimulate the immune system and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for flu.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves from a mature plant.
2. Rinse the harvested flowers and leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried echinacea purpurea flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.
5. Store the herbal echinacea purpurea tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with flu because of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, helping to boost the body's natural defenses against viral infections. Additionally, the tea's soothing properties can help to reduce throat inflammation and alleviate coughs associated with the flu, providing relief and comfort to those affected.

Its antimicrobial properties also help to combat secondary bacterial infections.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and alleviate flu symptoms such as congestion and cough.
• Liquiritin: A flavonoid glycoside, liquiritin exhibits antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, which may help to combat the viral infection causing flu and alleviate associated symptoms.
• Licoricidin: A triterpenoid saponin, licoricidin has been shown to have antiviral properties, specifically inhibiting the replication of the influenza virus, thereby helping to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for flu.

• Roots: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms.
• Leaves: Used for their medicinal properties, including antiviral and antimicrobial activities, to combat flu.
• Flowers: Utilized for their soothing effects, which can help to reduce fever and relieve flu symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-3 dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in the morning to ensure optimal flavor.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces weighing 2-3 grams per 8 ounce serving.
3. Steep the chopped roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the flavors.
4. Strain the tea using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
5. Store the tea in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Andrographis paniculata

Andrographis paniculata, also known as king of bitters, teas helps with flu because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost the immune system.

The active compound andrographolide in the plant has been shown to inhibit the replication of flu viruses, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms. It also has antiviral and antipyretic effects, helping to reduce fever and alleviate respiratory issues associated with the flu.

By taking Andrographis paniculata tea, individuals can potentially recover faster from flu infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata teas that help with flu.

• Andrographolide: This diterpenoid lactone helps with flu by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system, thereby alleviating symptoms of the flu.
• Andrographolide glucosides: These triterpenoid saponins help with flu by exhibiting antiviral properties, inhibiting the replication of viruses and reducing the severity of flu symptoms.
• Neoadrographolide: This sesquiterpenoid lactone helps with flu by suppressing the expression of pro-inflammatory genes and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to a reduction in flu symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of king of bitters used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part of Andrographis paniculata for teas due to their high concentration of active compounds.
• Roots: The roots are another popular choice for teas as they contain a significant amount of andrographolide, a key bioactive compound.
• Barks: The barks are used for their medicinal properties, particularly andrographolide, which is also found in other parts of the plant.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic king of bitters for flu.

1. Harvest fresh leaves and flowering tops of andrographis paniculata, typically in the early morning when dew is still present.
2. Dry the harvested leaves and flowering tops in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight for 7-10 days.
3. Grind 2-3 grams of dried andrographis paniculata leaves and flowering tops into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes, then strain the liquid.
5. Store the prepared tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume 1-2 cups per day, ideally after meals.

4. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with flu because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tea contains taraxasterol, a compound that has been shown to have antiviral effects, helping to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. Additionally, the tea's high water content and diuretic properties help to flush out toxins and excess fluids from the body, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of complications.

This natural remedy provides relief and support during the flu season.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with flu.

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms by reducing the severity of respiratory infections.
• Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale have been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, which can help boost the body's immune response to fight off flu viruses, reducing the duration and severity of the illness.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has demonstrated antiviral activity against certain flu viruses, such as the H1N1 strain, by inhibiting viral replication and reducing the spread of the infection.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for flu due to their high content of antioxidants and vitamins, which help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Roots: The roots are used to make teas for flu due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to fight off infections and reduce fever.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for flu due to their high content of flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for flu.

1. Harvest 25-50 fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers for use in tea preparation.
2. Rinse the harvested taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with cool water to remove dirt.
3. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale leaves with 1 cup of boiling water for tea.
4. Allow the taraxacum officinale tea to steep for 5-7 minutes to release its active compounds.
5. Strain the taraxacum officinale tea through a fine-mesh sieve and serve immediately while warm.

5. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with flu because of its decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The leaves of the Eucalyptus plant contain compounds like eucalyptol, which helps to break down mucus, making it easier to expel. This leads to relief from congestion, coughs, and sore throats, common symptoms of the flu. Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties help to combat the underlying infection, promoting a faster recovery from the flu.

Its soothing effects also help to reduce fever and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: This terpene acts as a decongestant, helping to relieve respiratory congestion and clear mucus, making it easier to breathe and recover from flu symptoms.
• Catechin: A type of phenolic compound, catechins have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and fight off viral infections, such as the flu.
• Phellandrene: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying viral and bacterial infections that cause flu, reducing the severity and duration of the illness.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used to make teas for flu due to their high concentration of decongestant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Barks: Barks are also used to make teas for flu as they contain a high amount of flavonoids and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation and fight off infections.
• Stems: Stems are sometimes used to make teas for flu due to their content of volatile oils and flavonoids, which help relieve respiratory issues and reduce fever.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for flu.

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried eucalyptus globulus leaves and stems from a trusted herbal supplier.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of eucalyptus globulus leaves and stems into a clean glass teapot.
3. Boil 8 ounces of fresh water in a kettle for 5-7 minutes to reach optimal temperature.
4. Steep the measured eucalyptus globulus leaves and stems in boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the eucalyptus globulus tea into a cup using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.

6. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with flu because of its potent antiviral properties.

The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of influenza viruses, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms. Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to breathe and recover from respiratory infections.

Thyme tea has been traditionally used to support immune function and alleviate flu symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to combat the virus that causes flu by inhibiting its growth and replication.
• Carvacrol: Exhibits antiviral properties, which may help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms by targeting the virus.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms such as fever, body aches, and cough by reducing inflammation and protecting against oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are commonly used to make teas for flu due to their high content of thymol, a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are used to make teas for flu as they contain volatile oils with antimicrobial properties that help alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
• Stems: Thyme stems are another part used to make teas for flu, as they contain compounds that exhibit antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat flu viruses and reduce symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves from the plant.
2. Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces.
3. Steep the chopped leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Allow the tea to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

7. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with flu because it possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol content in peppermint tea has natural decongestant and expectorant properties, helping to relieve congestion and cough. Additionally, peppermint's soothing effect can calm an irritated throat and ease a sore cough. The tea's cooling sensation can also help lower a fever, providing relief from flu symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Its herbal benefits make peppermint tea a popular natural remedy for flu sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with flu.

• Menthol: Menthol acts as a natural expectorant, helping to relieve congestion and cough associated with flu by thinning mucus and making it easier to expel.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help combat flu-causing pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms.
• Menthone: Menthone has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms such as sore throat, body aches, and fever by reducing inflammation and promoting a sense of well-being.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: High in menthol and menthone, which provide a cooling sensation and help relieve flu symptoms like congestion and fever.
• Stems: Contain menthol and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and ease flu-related respiratory issues.
• Buds: Rich in menthone and other volatile oils that help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing associated with the flu.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers from your garden or a local field.
2. Rinse the harvested leaves and flowers in cold water for 2 minutes to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the leaves and flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped leaves and flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea into a cup using a tea infuser or a piece of cheesecloth and serve immediately.

8. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with flu because of its antiviral properties.

The tea contains rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and combat viral infections. Additionally, the antioxidant properties in lemon balm tea help to boost the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight off the flu virus.

By reducing symptoms and supporting the immune system, lemon balm tea can provide relief and alleviate the discomfort associated with the flu.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with flu.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and has antiviral properties, which can aid in alleviating flu symptoms.
• Linalool: A terpene with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat flu viruses and reduce the severity of symptoms.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially alleviating flu symptoms and promoting recovery.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as essential oils and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Flowers: They are used for their calming and antiviral properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms such as fever and cough.
• Roots: They are used for their antiviral and antimicrobial properties, which can help boost the immune system and fight off flu viruses.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for flu.

1. Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in the early morning when they are at their most fragrant and potent.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm and dry environment for 1-2 weeks to preserve their properties.
3. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried melissa officinalis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea to remove the leaves and discard them to prevent bitterness and improve flavor.
5. Enjoy the tea immediately as it is best consumed fresh for maximum benefits and flavor.

9. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with flu because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tea's high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids helps to reduce the severity of flu symptoms such as fever, congestion, and body aches. Additionally, calendula's ability to stimulate the immune system and increase white blood cell count can help to fight off the underlying infection, promoting a faster recovery and reduced duration of flu symptoms.

Its soothing effects also aid in calming the respiratory system.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with flu.

• Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and alleviate flu symptoms by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and alleviate flu-related symptoms.
• Carotenoids: These pigments may help boost the immune system and reduce oxidative stress, potentially aiding in the recovery from flu.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for flu.

• Flowers: Used for teas due to their high concentration of flavonoids and carotenoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Leaves: Employed in teas for their antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which help combat flu symptoms and infections.
• Roots: Utilized in teas for their potential to stimulate the immune system and reduce fever, making them a useful addition to flu remedies.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for flu.

1. Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried calendula officinalis flowers from a trusted supplier or harvest them yourself in summer months.
2. Steep the dried flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove the solids.
4. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before consuming it in moderation.
5. Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to preserve its potency and flavor.

10. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with flu because of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in yarrow tea, such as flavonoids and terpenoids, work to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. It helps to ease congestion, coughs, and sore throats, while also boosting the immune system and reducing fever.

Additionally, yarrow tea's antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress caused by the flu virus, making it a popular natural remedy for flu relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with flu.

• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of the flu, such as sore throats and congestion.
• Tannins: As antioxidants, tannins in Achillea millefolium tea help combat viral infections, such as the flu, by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing the severity and duration of flu symptoms, including fever and cough.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for flu.

• Leaves: Leaves of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for flu because they are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that help to soothe and calm the body.
• Flowers: Flowers of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for flu because they are known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce fever and alleviate symptoms.
• Roots: Roots of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for flu because they contain compounds that have antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which can help to combat the underlying causes of the flu.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for flu.

1. Harvest fresh achillea millefolium leaves and flowers in the early morning or late afternoon.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 week.
3. Combine 1 tablespoon of dried achillea millefolium with 8 oz of boiling water to make tea.
4. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds and flavors.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving hot or chilled.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for flu?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with flu is a blend of Echinacea, Ginger, and Peppermint.

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties, helping to fight off the flu virus. Ginger adds a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, reducing congestion and nausea. Peppermint, with its menthol content, helps to ease respiratory issues and reduce fever.

This combination not only aids in recovery but also provides relief from flu symptoms, making it an effective and natural way to heal.