By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Strep Throat
Herbal teas for strep throat are a natural remedy that helps alleviate the discomfort and symptoms associated with this bacterial infection.
These teas are made from herbs that have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe the throat, reduce pain, and combat the infection.
Examples include slippery elm, echinacea, and peppermint tea, which have been shown to improve lives by providing quick relief and promoting a speedy recovery.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for strep throat, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Echinacea angustifolia
- 3. Salvia officinalis
- 4. Stevia rebaudiana
- 5. Mentha x piperita
- 6. Zingiber officinale
- 7. Eucalyptus globulus
- 8. Hydrastis canadensis
- 9. Taraxacum officinale
- 10. Urtica dioica
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for strep throat?
- What ailments similar to strep throat are treated with herbal teas?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with strep throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the throat.
The herb contains compounds that reduce swelling and pain, providing relief from the discomfort associated with strep throat. Additionally, licorice root has antimicrobial properties that help combat the underlying bacterial infection, allowing the body to heal and recover more efficiently.
This makes licorice root tea a popular natural remedy for soothing and treating strep throat symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with strep throat.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms of strep throat, such as swelling and pain in the throat.
- Saponins: Specifically, glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has been shown to have antibacterial properties, which help combat the bacterial infection that causes strep throat, and also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects to reduce throat irritation.
- Liquiritin: This flavonoid glycoside has been reported to have a potent anti-inflammatory effect, which helps reduce the swelling and pain associated with strep throat, and also has antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacterial infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for strep throat.
- Roots: They are used to make teas due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps soothe sore throats.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas that help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, making them effective against strep throat.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas that have antimicrobial properties, helping to combat the underlying bacterial infection of strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for strep throat.
- Harvest 3-4 ounces of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in late summer or early fall.
- Rinse the dried roots with cold water to remove any impurities or dust particles.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the dried roots with 8 ounces of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the roots to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea into a cup and let it cool before consumption for maximum benefit.
2. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with strep throat because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The root of the plant contains compounds like alkylamides and caffeic acid, which have been shown to reduce swelling and fight off bacterial infections. Studies have demonstrated that Echinacea angustifolia can inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for strep throat.
By promoting immune function and reducing bacterial load, Echinacea angustifolia teas can help alleviate symptoms and support the body's natural recovery process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with strep throat.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the throat, which can help alleviate symptoms of strep throat.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat associated with strep throat.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the bacteria that cause strep throat, such as Group A Streptococcus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for strep throat.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are the most commonly used part for making teas due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help boost the immune system.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make teas as they contain some amount of the plant's bioactive compounds, although in lesser concentration than the roots.
- Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas, especially in herbal blends, due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties and mild flavor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for strep throat.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant is dormant, typically after 2 years of growth.
- Clean the roots thoroughly, rinse them with water, and dry them in a well-ventilated area.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces and store them in airtight containers to preserve their potency.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of chopped echinacea angustifolia root in boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids, then serve the echinacea angustifolia tea hot or chilled as desired.
3. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with strep throat because of its antibacterial properties.
The essential oils present in Salvia officinalis, such as camphor and thujone, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for strep throat. Additionally, sage's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with strep throat, promoting a faster recovery.
Its soothing and antimicrobial effects make sage tea a natural remedy for alleviating symptoms of strep throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with strep throat.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, a common cause of strep throat.
- Salvianolic acid a: This phenolic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate pain and swelling associated with strep throat.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in the throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for strep throat.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of essential oils and antioxidants that help soothe the throat and combat infection.
- Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain flavonoids and terpenes that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat.
- Buds: Salvia officinalis buds are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antimicrobial properties that can help combat bacterial infections that cause strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for strep throat.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers for the tea.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a warm oven at 35-40 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Steep 5 grams of dried leaves in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids after the steeping time has elapsed.
- Store the tea in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 24 hours.
4. Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia rebaudiana, also known as stevia, teas helps with strep throat because of its natural antimicrobial properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as stevioside and rebaudioside, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for strep throat. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of stevia may help reduce throat inflammation and discomfort associated with strep throat.
The soothing and cooling effects of stevia teas may also provide quick relief from sore throats and coughs, making it a popular natural remedy for this common illness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Stevia rebaudiana teas that help with strep throat.
- Steviol glycosides: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which help combat the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria that cause strep throat.
- Catechin: As an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent, catechin may help reduce inflammation and fight off the infection causing strep throat.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate the symptoms of strep throat, such as sore throat and fever.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stevia used to make teas for strep throat.
- Leaves: Stevia leaves are used to make teas for strep throat due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial infections.
- Roots: Stevia roots are used to make teas for strep throat due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Stems: Stevia stems are used to make teas for strep throat due to their antiseptic properties, which can help soothe the throat and reduce the risk of infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stevia for strep throat.
- Harvest stevia rebaudiana leaves from mature plants in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the harvested stevia rebaudiana leaves into small pieces using sharp scissors or pruning shears.
- Steep one teaspoon of chopped stevia rebaudiana leaves in one cup of boiling water for five minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the leaves and solids.
- Serve the stevia rebaudiana tea immediately and store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to two days.
5. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with strep throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol in peppermint helps reduce swelling and soothe the throat, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's antibacterial properties can help combat the streptococcus bacteria that causes strep throat, promoting a faster recovery.
The tea's cooling sensation can also help ease coughing and promote a good night's sleep, which is essential for the body to fight off the infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with strep throat.
- Menthol: Menthol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, providing relief from strep throat symptoms.
- Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), exhibit antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria that cause strep throat, such as Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce throat inflammation, soothe the mucous membranes, and combat the oxidative stress associated with strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for strep throat.
- Leaves: Used to make teas for strep throat due to their high menthol content, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
- Buds: Used to make teas for strep throat due to their high concentration of menthone, which has antibacterial properties that help to combat strep bacteria.
- Stems: Used to make teas for strep throat due to their high menthol content, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for strep throat.
- Harvest 1 to 2 ounces of fresh leaves from the plant when it is in full bloom to ensure optimal flavor and potency.
- Dry the fresh leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 1 to 3 weeks to preserve their properties.
- Combine 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup or teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes allowing the leaves to release their oils and flavors into the water.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the liquid immediately to enjoy its refreshing and invigorating properties.
6. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with strep throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to swallow and speak. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of ginger help combat the bacterial infection that causes strep throat, promoting a faster recovery and alleviating symptoms.
This makes ginger tea a popular natural remedy for soothing sore throats.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with strep throat.
- Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat associated with strep throat.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the bacterial infection that causes strep throat.
- 6-gingerol: This compound has been shown to have antibacterial properties, specifically against Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria that causes strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for strep throat.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of Zingiber officinale contain compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate strep throat symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are also used to make teas due to their high concentration of gingerols, which have antimicrobial properties that combat strep throat-causing bacteria.
- Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale, although less commonly used than the rhizomes or roots, are still used to make teas that help soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for strep throat.
- Wash 1 teaspoon of fresh zingiber officinale root under cold running water for 30 seconds.
- Chop the washed zingiber officinale root into small pieces using a sharp knife for 2 minutes.
- Combine the chopped zingiber officinale root with 250ml of boiling water in a teapot for 5 minutes.
- Steep the mixture for 7-10 minutes allowing the flavors and nutrients to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve into a cup discarding the solids immediately.
7. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with strep throat because of its antimicrobial properties.
The tea's high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant and anti-inflammatory agent, helps to soothe and reduce inflammation in the throat. This, combined with its ability to kill Streptococcus bacteria, makes Eucalyptus globulus an effective natural remedy for managing strep throat symptoms, such as pain, discomfort, and difficulty swallowing.
Regular consumption may aid in speeding up recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with strep throat.
- Eucalyptol: Eucalyptol helps with strep throat by reducing inflammation and relieving pain in the throat due to its anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Catechin: Catechin helps with strep throat by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the bacterial infection that causes strep throat.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid helps with strep throat by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can help alleviate symptoms such as soreness and swelling in the throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for strep throat.
- Leaves: Eucalyptus globulus leaves are commonly used to make teas for strep throat due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant and antibacterial agent.
- Buds: Eucalyptus globulus buds are used to make teas for strep throat as they contain a higher concentration of eucalyptol and other volatile oils compared to mature leaves, making them more effective in reducing inflammation and fighting infections.
- Stems: Eucalyptus globulus stems are also used to make teas for strep throat, as they contain a significant amount of eucalyptol and other medicinal compounds that help to soothe and calm the throat, reducing pain and discomfort associated with strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for strep throat.
- Gather 1 teaspoon of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves from a trusted herbal supplier.
- Steep the dried leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the leaves.
- Add 1 tablespoon of honey to sweeten the tea if desired for taste.
- Serve the eucalyptus globulus tea immediately and enjoy the refreshing herbal flavor.
8. Hydrastis canadensis
Hydrastis canadensis, also known as goldenseal, teas helps with strep throat because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The berberine content in goldenseal tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of Streptococcus bacteria, the primary cause of strep throat. Additionally, goldenseal's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with strep throat, promoting a faster recovery.
By incorporating goldenseal tea into your treatment plan, you can potentially alleviate symptoms and support your body's natural healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis teas that help with strep throat.
- Berberine: This alkaloid constituent has antibacterial properties, which can help combat Streptococcus bacteria that cause strep throat.
- Hydrastine: This alkaloid constituent has antiseptic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the throat.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic acid constituent has antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make teas for strep throat.
- Roots: The roots of Hydrastis canadensis are commonly used to make teas due to their high concentration of berberine, a compound known for its antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are another commonly used part, as they also contain berberine and other compounds that help to combat strep throat.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes, or underground stems, of Hydrastis canadensis are used in teas to take advantage of their berberine content, which aids in reducing the severity of strep throat symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for strep throat.
- Harvest fresh or dried hydrastis canadensis roots in late summer or early fall for best flavor and potency.
- Dry the roots in a warm place at 35 to 40 degrees celsius for 2 to 4 days.
- Grind 2 to 4 grams of dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep the ground roots in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve immediately after preparation to preserve its medicinal properties.
9. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with strep throat because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant contains flavonoids and sesquiterpenes that have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, including Streptococcus pyogenes, the primary cause of strep throat. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, providing relief from discomfort and promoting a faster recovery.
This natural remedy has been traditionally used to support the immune system and alleviate symptoms of strep throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with strep throat.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in dandelion tea have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity of strep throat symptoms and combat bacterial infections.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, have antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, which can help alleviate throat inflammation, reduce pain, and prevent the spread of strep throat-causing bacteria.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpene saponin that has been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory and antimicrobial activities, which can help regulate the immune response and combat bacterial infections that cause strep throat.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for strep throat.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties to help combat strep throat infection.
- Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to reduce throat inflammation and fight infection.
- Roots: Used for their expectorant properties to help loosen and clear mucus from the throat, aiding in the recovery from strep throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for strep throat.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers by cutting them close to the ground to minimize root damage.
- Rinse the harvested taraxacum officinale parts in cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a mortar and pestle to gently crush 1-2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale per 8 ounces water.
- Steep the crushed taraxacum officinale in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
10. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with strep throat because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's antioxidants and bioactive compounds reduce swelling and ease the pain associated with strep throat. The diuretic properties of stinging nettle tea help to flush out the bacteria that cause the infection. Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties inhibit the growth of Streptococcus bacteria, which is responsible for strep throat.
This natural remedy promotes a faster recovery from the infection and alleviates symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with strep throat.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity of strep throat symptoms and combat the underlying bacterial infection.
- Tannins: Tannins in Urtica dioica teas can help reduce inflammation and combat the Streptococcus bacteria that cause strep throat by creating an environment that's less conducive to bacterial growth.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate strep throat symptoms, such as sore throat and fever, by reducing inflammation and inhibiting bacterial growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for strep throat.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to soothe and reduce inflammation in the throat.
- Roots: Contain iridoid glycosides, which have antimicrobial properties that can help combat the bacteria causing strep throat.
- Stems: Contain histamine-releasing compounds that can help stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for strep throat.
- Harvest the fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in late spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency.
- Rinse the harvested urtica dioica leaves and stems with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems into small pieces to release their active ingredients.
- Steep one teaspoon of chopped urtica dioica leaves and stems in one cup of boiling water for five to ten minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to produce a refreshing and soothing herbal tea.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for strep throat?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with strep throat is a blend of slippery elm, echinacea, and peppermint.
Slippery elm soothes the throat and reduces inflammation, while echinacea boosts the immune system to fight off the infection. Peppermint provides relief from pain and congestion, and its antimicrobial properties help combat the bacteria causing the infection.
This combination helps alleviate symptoms, reduces the duration of the illness, and promotes overall healing.
What ailments similar to strep throat are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to strep throat that are treated with herbal teas are pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and laryngitis.
Herbal teas such as slippery elm, licorice root, and marshmallow root soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation. Yerba mate tea has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections, while eucalyptus and peppermint teas provide decongestant relief for congested sinuses and a scratchy throat.
These herbal teas offer a natural and comforting way to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.