10 Best Herbal Teas For Colds

Herbal teas for colds are a natural and soothing remedy that helps alleviate symptoms of the common cold.

These teas are made from a blend of herbs, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties.

Drinking herbal teas like elderberry, echinacea, and licorice root can help ease congestion, reduce coughs, and boost the immune system, improving overall well-being and quality of life.

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

1. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with colds because it is rich in immunomodulating properties.

The herb stimulates the body's immune system to fight off infections, reducing the severity and duration of colds. Its anti-inflammatory compounds help alleviate symptoms such as congestion, coughs, and sore throats.

Additionally, Echinacea angustifolia contains antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress caused by viral infections, promoting overall well-being and supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which fight off invading pathogens and reduce the severity of cold symptoms.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia teas exhibit immunomodulatory effects, which help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, making it easier to recover from a cold.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, particularly beta-glucans, stimulate the immune system by activating natural killer cells and macrophages, which play a crucial role in fighting off infections and reducing the duration of cold symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for colds.

• Roots: They are commonly used due to their high concentration of active compounds, which are believed to help boost the immune system.
• Leaves: Leaves are often used in teas because they contain smaller amounts of the active compounds, but still contribute to the medicinal properties.
• Flowers: Flowers are used in teas for their calming and soothing effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of a cold.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for colds.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Clean the harvested roots thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Dry the cleaned echinacea angustifolia roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 7-10 days.
4. Steep 2-3 teaspoons of dried echinacea angustifolia roots in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and let it cool before consuming 2-3 cups per day to boost immune system.

2. Glycyrrhiza glabra

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

The root of the licorice plant contains compounds that can help to reduce congestion and alleviate coughs. Glycyrrhiza glabra teas may also have an antiviral effect, which can help to combat the underlying virus that causes a cold. Additionally, its expectorant properties can help to loosen and clear mucus, making it easier to breathe and recover from a cold.

This makes it a popular natural remedy for cold and flu relief.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Liquiritin: This flavonoid glycoside helps with colds by acting as an antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing the severity of cold symptoms.
• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate congestion and coughing associated with colds.
• Isoliquiritin: This flavonoid glycoside exhibits antiviral and antimicrobial activities, helping to combat the underlying infection that causes colds.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are one of the most commonly used parts in making teas for colds due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used in teas to help soothe sore throats and calm coughs due to their expectorant properties.
• Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are also used in teas to help reduce fever and relieve congestion due to their warming and anti-inflammatory effects.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-4 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root and store in an airtight container for up to 2 years.
2. Steep the root in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
3. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids from the liquid.
4. Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to taste and stir to dissolve the sweetener into the tea.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy the tea in moderation due to its potential side effects.

3. Pelargonium sidoides

Pelargonium sidoides, also known as umckaloabo, teas helps with colds because it contains compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

These properties help to soothe a sore throat, reduce congestion, and alleviate sinus pressure. The tea also has immunomodulatory effects, which help to support the body's natural immune response to fight off the underlying infection.

As a result, Pelargonium sidoides tea may help to alleviate symptoms of the common cold, such as cough, runny nose, and fatigue, allowing for a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pelargonium sidoides teas that help with colds.

• Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the severity of cold symptoms by alleviating congestion and cough.
• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help combat the underlying causes of colds, such as oxidative stress and inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Pelargonidin: This flavonoid compound has antimicrobial properties, which help fight off bacterial infections that can exacerbate cold symptoms, such as sinusitis and bronchitis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of umckaloabo used to make teas for colds.

• Roots: They are used because they contain the active compounds, specifically phenolic acids and glycosides, which are responsible for their medicinal properties.
• Leaves: They are used because they are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: They are also used because they are a primary source of the key bioactive compound, sidoidin, which is used to treat colds and upper respiratory tract infections.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic umckaloabo for colds.

1. Gather 250-500mg of dried pelargonium sidoides root in a clean environment to ensure its purity.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a tea infuser or a saucepan for 5-10 minutes at high heat.
3. Add the dried pelargonium sidoides root to the boiling water and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture with a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool down for 2-5 minutes before consumption to avoid burns and discomfort.

4. Andrographis paniculata

Andrographis paniculata, also known as king of bitters, teas helps with colds because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.

The herb's active compound, andrographolide, has been shown to inhibit the replication of viruses responsible for colds, such as rhinovirus and coronavirus. Additionally, Andrographis paniculata has antimicrobial properties that help to reduce the severity of cold symptoms, including congestion, coughing, and sore throats.

Its ability to stimulate the immune system also aids in the recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Andrographolide: This labdane diterpenoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms of colds such as congestion and cough.
• Andrographolide glucosides: These flavonoid glycosides have immunomodulatory effects, enhancing the body's immune response and reducing the severity of cold symptoms.
• Neoxanthin: This carotenoid pigment has antioxidant properties, which help protect the body against oxidative stress caused by viral infections, reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Andrographis paniculata are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of andrographolide, a key bioactive compound.
• Roots: The roots are often used as they contain a higher concentration of andrographolide compared to other parts of the plant.
• Stems: The stems are used as they contain a mixture of andrographolide and other compounds that contribute to their medicinal properties.

Recipe

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

1. Measure out one teaspoon of dried andrographis paniculata leaves for every cup of water you plan to use.
2. Combine the measured andrographis paniculata leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a tea infuser or heat-resistant cup.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 7 minutes depending on your desired tea strength and flavor.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup or teapot to remove the leaves.
5. Serve the tea immediately or let it cool to a comfortable temperature before consumption.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with colds because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tea contains compounds like taraxasterol, which has been shown to reduce swelling and ease congestion. The antioxidants in the tea, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, help to combat oxidative stress and boost the immune system. Additionally, the tea's diuretic properties help to clear mucus and reduce the severity of cold symptoms, providing relief and promoting overall well-being.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe and alleviate cold symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Phenolic acids: These compounds, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce congestion and soothe respiratory tract irritation associated with colds.
• Flavonoids: Isorhapontigenin has been shown to exhibit antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help combat viral infections and alleviate symptoms of the common cold, such as fever and sore throat.
• Polysaccharides: Arabinogalactan, a type of polysaccharide, has been found to stimulate the immune system and increase the production of white blood cells, which helps the body fight off infections and recover from colds more efficiently.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve cold and flu symptoms.
• Roots: Utilized for their antibacterial and antiviral properties, which aid in reducing the severity of colds and flu.
• Flowers: Employed for their expectorant properties, which help relieve congestion and coughs associated with colds and flu.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in the morning for optimal flavor and potency.
2. Rinse the harvested taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried taraxacum officinale leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the taraxacum officinale tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
5. Serve the taraxacum officinale tea hot or chilled within 30 minutes of preparation to preserve its flavor.

6. Verbascum thapsus

Verbascum thapsus, also known as mullein, teas helps with colds because of its natural expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal tea's mucilaginous compounds help to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the throat and lungs, reducing congestion and coughing. Mullein's ability to ease respiratory issues makes it a popular remedy for colds and flu.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with colds, providing relief and promoting recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus teas that help with colds.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing the inflammation and congestion associated with colds.
• Verbascoside: This iridoid glycoside has antimicrobial properties, which help in fighting off the underlying pathogens that cause colds.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, thereby helping to alleviate cold symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make teas for colds.

• Leaves: Used to make teas for colds due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve respiratory issues.
• Flowers: Utilized for teas to combat colds as they possess antimicrobial and antiviral properties that help alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation.
• Roots: Employed in teas for their antiviral and antimicrobial properties, which aid in fighting off infections and relieving respiratory congestion.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for colds.

1. Harvest verbascum thapsus flowers in the morning when they are fully open for optimal potency.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Steep 2 teaspoons of dried verbascum thapsus flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
5. Store the tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

7. Solidago virgaurea

Solidago virgaurea, also known as goldenrod, teas helps with colds because of its rich content of antioxidants, flavonoids, and terpenoids.

These compounds work together to reduce inflammation and congestion, making it easier to breathe and recover from illness. The tea's expectorant properties also help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, alleviating coughs and congestion. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties may help to combat the underlying infection that causes the cold.

This natural remedy can provide relief and support during the recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea teas that help with colds.

• Flavonoids: These help with colds by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to the severity of cold symptoms.
• Tannins: Tannins have astringent properties that can help alleviate respiratory issues associated with colds, such as sore throats and congestion.
• Caffeic acid derivatives: Caffeic acid and its derivatives have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate cold symptoms and promote overall recovery.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make teas for colds.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties to help relieve cold symptoms.
• Flowers: Utilized for their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties to combat infection and promote healing.
• Roots: Employed for their bitter and astringent properties to stimulate digestion and help alleviate cold-related discomforts.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for colds.

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of solidago virgaurea flowers in the late morning when the dew is still present.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried flowers in 8 oz of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before serving and consuming immediately.

8. Eupatorium perfoliatum

Eupatorium perfoliatum, also known as joe pye weed, teas helps with colds because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant contains flavonoids and tannins that have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, including those that cause respiratory infections. Additionally, the tea's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus from the airways, making it easier to breathe and recover from colds.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe and calm cold symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eupatorium perfoliatum teas that help with colds.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce nasal congestion and alleviate cold symptoms.
• Flavonoids: As potent antioxidants, flavonoids can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation associated with colds, promoting overall immune function.
• Terpenoids: Some terpenoids in Eupatorium perfoliatum may have expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of joe pye weed used to make teas for colds.

• Leaves: Rich in bioactive compounds that help alleviate cold symptoms and reduce inflammation.
• Roots: Contain medicinal properties that aid in soothing respiratory issues and fighting off infections.
• Stems: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate congestion and coughs.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic joe pye weed for colds.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh eupatorium perfoliatum leaves and flowers for tea preparation by cutting them at dawn.
2. Rinse the harvested material in cold water to remove dirt and debris for about 5 minutes.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried eupatorium perfoliatum leaves and flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to separate the solids from the liquid immediately.
5. Store the cooled tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and drink 1 cup 3 times daily.

9. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with colds because of its natural decongestant and antimicrobial properties.

Thyme contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have been shown to combat the underlying viral and bacterial causes of colds. The tea's expectorant properties also help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory system, making it easier to breathe and alleviating congestion.

Additionally, thyme's antioxidant properties help to boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of cold symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Thymol is a phenolic monoterpene that acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to combat bacterial and viral infections that can cause colds.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol is a phenolic monoterpene that exhibits antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of colds, such as congestion and coughing.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with colds.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are used to make teas for colds due to their high content of thymol, a natural decongestant and antimicrobial agent.
• Flowers: Thymus vulgaris flowers are used to make teas for colds due to their ability to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Buds: Thymus vulgaris buds are used to make teas for colds due to their high concentration of thymol and other compounds that help to combat respiratory infections.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves in the morning when they are at their highest oil content for best flavor.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
3. Use a mortar and pestle to crush 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried thymus vulgaris leaves into a fine powder.
4. Steep the crushed leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their flavors.
5. Strain the tea and drink immediately to enjoy the refreshing and medicinal properties of thymus vulgaris.

10. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with colds because of its natural decongestant properties.

The menthol content in peppermint helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and relieving congestion. The tea's antibacterial properties also help to combat underlying infections that can cause colds. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing, providing relief from cold symptoms.

This makes peppermint tea a popular remedy for colds and respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: It helps with colds by providing a soothing and cooling effect on the respiratory tract, reducing congestion and coughing.
• Rosmarinic acid: It helps with colds by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in reducing the severity of cold symptoms and fighting off infections.
• Eucalyptol: It helps with colds by acting as a natural expectorant, helping to thin mucus and promote its expulsion from the respiratory tract, thereby relieving congestion and coughing.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps relieve congestion and coughs.
• Buds: The young, unopened leaves and stems are used to make teas that are rich in menthol, providing decongestant and antiseptic properties.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita are also used to make teas, which contain menthol and other compounds that help ease congestion and soothe sore throats.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning or late afternoon when essential oils are most potent.
2. Rinse the freshly harvested mentha x piperita leaves and flowers thoroughly with cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers with 1 quart of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the essential oils and flavors to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container to remove the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with colds is a blend of Echinacea, peppermint, and ginger.

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties, helping to fight off infections and reduce the severity of cold symptoms. Peppermint tea soothes a sore throat and eases congestion, while ginger adds anti-inflammatory benefits to help reduce fever and alleviate coughs. Drinking this blend regularly can help alleviate cold symptoms and promote overall well-being.

It's best to consume this tea when symptoms first appear to prevent the cold from progressing.