7 Best Herbal Teas For Colds

Herbal teas for Colds are a natural remedy made from various plant extracts, such as leaves, flowers, roots, and bark, that are used to alleviate the symptoms of the common cold.

These teas are effective in treating colds due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to boost the immune system and reduce congestion, cough, and fever.

Some popular herbal teas used to treat colds include Echinacea tea, which stimulates the immune system and fights off infections; Peppermint tea, which eases congestion and cough; Ginger tea, which reduces inflammation and soothes a sore throat; Eucalyptus tea, which helps to loosen mucus and relieve congestion; Lemon and Honey tea, which provides hydration and soothes a sore throat; and Thyme tea, which has antimicrobial properties that help to combat infections.

By incorporating these teas into your daily routine, you can help to alleviate the symptoms of the common cold and promote overall health and well-being.

Below there's a list of the 7 best herbal teas for colds.

1. Echinacea purpurea teas

Echinacea purpurea teas have been traditionally used to help alleviate the symptoms of colds and flu, thanks to their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties.

This herbal preparation helps to treat the colds ailment by stimulating the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of symptoms, and protecting against infections.

The bioactive constituents of Echinacea purpurea teas, including alkylamides, caffeic acid derivatives, and polysaccharides, contribute to its therapeutic effects by enhancing the production of white blood cells and activating natural killer cells.

The benefits of using Echinacea purpurea teas to treat colds include reduced congestion, fever, and sore throat, as well as improved overall well-being and a shorter recovery time.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 cups of fresh or dried Echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves.
2. Measure 1 tablespoon of the Echinacea mixture and add it to 1 cup of boiling water.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup. Discard the solids.
5. Drink the tea warm, up to 3 times a day, when needed for cold relief.

Echinacea purpurea teas can be effective in treating colds, but some users may experience side effects such as nausea, stomach upset, or allergic reactions like hives or itching, particularly when consumed in large amounts or for extended periods.

To minimize potential risks, users should start with small doses, gradually increase as needed, and be cautious of interactions with other medications or health conditions, such as high blood pressure or allergies.

2. Eucalyptus globulus teas

Eucalyptus globulus teas are a popular herbal remedy used to treat colds and flu due to their decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol and eucalyptol present in this herbal preparation help to relieve congestion and open up airways, making it easier to breathe.

Bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes contribute to its antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which aid in fighting off the underlying infection.

By using Eucalyptus globulus teas, individuals can benefit from its ability to reduce coughing, fever, and body aches, ultimately promoting faster recovery from colds and flu.

Recipe:

1. Get 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Take 5-7 fresh eucalyptus leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried eucalyptus leaves.
3. Add the eucalyptus leaves to 1 cup of boiling water.
4. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the leaves.
5. Drink the tea hot or cold, 2-3 times a day to help relieve cold symptoms.

Eucalyptus globulus teas can help alleviate cold symptoms, but possible side effects may include digestive issues, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications.

Precautions when using this herbal preparation include avoiding use in children and pregnant women, as well as taking it in moderation to prevent over-stimulation and potential respiratory issues.

3. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, also known as ginger tea, have been traditionally used to treat the common cold and its associated symptoms such as congestion and cough.

The properties of this herbal preparation help to treat the cold by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and loosening mucus, making it easier to expel.

The bioactive constituents of ginger tea, including gingerols and shogaols, possess anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help to alleviate cold symptoms.

The benefits of using ginger tea to treat the cold include its ability to soothe a sore throat, reduce congestion, and promote relaxation, making it a popular natural remedy for cold relief.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried ginger root and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Grate the dried ginger root to release its flavor and aroma.
3. Add the grated ginger to the boiling water and stir well.
4. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
5. Strain the tea and drink it while it's still warm to help relieve cold symptoms.

Zingiber officinale teas can be beneficial in alleviating cold symptoms, but they may cause stomach upset and heartburn in some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing digestive issues, due to its spicy and warming properties.

To minimize potential side effects, it is recommended to consume Zingiber officinale teas in moderation, especially on an empty stomach, and to avoid taking it with other spicy or acidic foods.

4. Sambucus nigra teas

Sambucus nigra teas, also known as elderberry tea, have been traditionally used to treat colds and flu due to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids, help to combat the infection by inhibiting the replication of the virus and reducing inflammation in the body.

By consuming elderberry tea, individuals can experience relief from cold symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat, and may also benefit from reduced duration and severity of the illness.

The benefits of using elderberry tea to treat colds include its natural and non-invasive approach, making it a popular choice among those seeking a holistic remedy for this common ailment.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Sambucus nigra flowers, or 1 teaspoon of dried flowers per cup of boiling water.
2. Combine the flowers with 1 cup of boiling water in a saucepan or teapot.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to release.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Add honey to taste, if desired, and drink while warm to help soothe a cold.

Sambucus nigra teas can be effective in alleviating cold symptoms, but possible side effects include allergic reactions, such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing, as well as digestive issues, like nausea and stomach cramps.

When using Sambucus nigra teas to treat colds, it's essential to take precautions, such as starting with small doses to monitor individual tolerance and potential interactions with other medications, and being cautious when consuming Sambucus nigra teas with certain health conditions, like high blood pressure.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra teas

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas, derived from the roots of the licorice plant, have been used to treat colds and other respiratory ailments due to their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

The bioactive constituents of Glycyrrhiza glabra teas, including glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, help to soothe a sore throat, reduce congestion, and alleviate coughs.

By reducing inflammation and promoting the expulsion of mucus, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas help to relieve symptoms associated with colds, such as a runny nose and cough.

The benefits of using Glycyrrhiza glabra teas to treat colds include reduced severity and duration of symptoms, improved respiratory function, and a natural alternative to over-the-counter medications.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra root, 1 cup of boiling water, and a strainer or tea infuser.
2. Pour the boiling water over the dried root in the strainer or tea infuser.
3. Steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the root to release its flavor and benefits.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the root. Add honey to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help alleviate cold symptoms.

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas can be used to treat colds, but consuming them excessively may lead to side effects such as increased blood pressure, water retention, and low potassium levels.

To use these teas safely, it is recommended to consume them in moderation, ideally for a short duration, and to avoid drinking them at bedtime to minimize potential disruptions in sleep patterns.

6. Thymus vulgaris teas

Thymus vulgaris teas, also known as thyme tea, have been used for centuries to treat colds due to their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties.

The herbal preparation helps to treat colds by reducing congestion, relieving coughs, and soothing a sore throat.

Thymus vulgaris tea contains bioactive constituents such as thymol, carvacrol, and rosmarinic acid, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, thus helping to alleviate symptoms of colds.

The benefits of Thymus vulgaris tea in treating colds include its ability to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, promote a speedy recovery, and provide relief from congestion and coughs.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of boiling water and 2 tablespoons of dried thyme leaves (Thymus vulgaris).
2. Steep the thyme leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes. Strain the mixture into a cup.
3. Add honey or lemon to taste, if needed. Stir well.
4. Drink the thyme tea 2-3 times a day to help alleviate cold symptoms.
5. Consult a doctor before using thyme tea for children, pregnant women, or people with allergies.

Thymus vulgaris teas can be beneficial in treating colds, but may cause side effects such as increased heart rate, dizziness, and allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin.

Precautions should be taken when using Thymus vulgaris teas to treat colds, including not consuming it in excess, avoiding it during pregnancy, and being cautious when combining it with other medications.

7. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas, also known as English lavender tea, have been traditionally used to treat colds and respiratory issues.

This herbal preparation contains properties such as antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties that help to soothe and calm the respiratory tract, thereby reducing congestion and coughing.

The bioactive constituents, including linalool and linalyl acetate, have been found to exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, which contribute to the tea's ability to combat infections and promote healing.

The benefits of using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat colds include its ability to reduce symptoms such as fever, cough, and congestion, as well as its potential to boost the immune system and promote overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Lavandula angustifolia flowers and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the Lavandula angustifolia flowers in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes. Strain the tea into another cup.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the tea, if desired, for sweetness.
5. Drink the tea warm, 2-3 times a day, to help relieve cold symptoms.

Lavandula angustifolia teas can help alleviate the symptoms of colds, but may cause side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, and allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin or allergies.

To use Lavandula angustifolia teas safely, it is recommended to start with a small dose, avoid taking it on an empty stomach, and be cautious when consuming it with other medications or substances that may interact with its active compounds.