By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Hoarse Voice
Herbal teas for hoarse voice are natural remedies that help soothe and calm the vocal cords, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Examples of herbal teas that help with hoarse voice include slippery elm, licorice root, and thyme. These teas work by providing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which improve vocal cord health and reduce strain.
Regular consumption can help alleviate hoarseness and improve overall vocal performance, making it easier for singers, public speakers, and teachers to communicate effectively.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for hoarse voice, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Thymus vulgaris
- 2. Mentha x piperita
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Hedera helix
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Verbascum thapsus
- 7. Foeniculum vulgare
- 8. Matricaria chamomilla
- 9. Malva sylvestris
- 10. Rosa rugosa
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for hoarse voice?
- What ailments similar to hoarse voice are treated with herbal teas?
1. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The tea contains compounds like thymol, which helps soothe and calm the vocal cords. It reduces inflammation and swelling, allowing for a smoother and more even vocal flow. Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties help clear mucus and phlegm from the throat, further aiding in the recovery of a hoarse voice.
Regular consumption of thyme tea can help alleviate hoarseness and promote a healthy throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the throat, which can contribute to a hoarse voice.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a terpene, has antimicrobial properties that may help combat infections in the throat, such as laryngitis, which can cause a hoarse voice.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce throat irritation and inflammation, which can contribute to a hoarse voice.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are often used for teas due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe an irritated throat.
- Flowers: The flowers of Thymus vulgaris are used for teas as they contain essential oils that can help ease coughs and reduce inflammation in the throat.
- Buds: Thymus vulgaris buds are used for teas because they contain a high concentration of thymol, an essential oil that can help combat infections and soothe a hoarse voice.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for hoarse voice.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh thymus vulgaris leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves for the tea.
- Dry the fresh leaves by tying them in small bunches and hanging upside down for 1 week.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup or teapot to remove solids.
- Serve the tea hot or iced immediately and enjoy as needed.
2. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with hoarse voice because its menthol content helps to thin mucus and reduce inflammation in the throat.
This allows for better airflow and reduced irritation, thereby soothing a sore or strained vocal cord. Additionally, peppermint's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, promoting a faster recovery from hoarseness and a smoother voice.
This makes peppermint tea a popular remedy for soothing a hoarse voice.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Menthol: Menthol has a soothing effect on the throat, which helps to calm inflammation and reduce irritation that causes hoarseness.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, rosmarinic acid helps to protect the mucous membranes in the throat from damage and reduce inflammation that leads to hoarseness.
- Eugenol: Eugenol has a numbing effect on the throat, which helps to reduce pain and discomfort associated with hoarseness, allowing for improved vocal cord function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to ease throat irritation and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: The stems, like the leaves, contain menthol and other compounds that aid in soothing a hoarse throat and promoting a smooth, clear tone.
- Buds: The buds are also used for their menthol content, which helps to calm and soothe an irritated throat, making them a popular choice for teas to alleviate hoarseness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for hoarse voice.
- Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning for optimal flavor and aroma.
- Clean the harvested leaves and flowers thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried mentha x piperita leaves and flowers with 8 oz of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea into a cup and serve hot or chilled depending on your preference.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the vocal cords.
The saponins and flavonoids present in licorice root have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing, which can help alleviate the symptoms of hoarseness.
Additionally, licorice tea has natural expectorant properties that can help loosen and clear mucus from the throat, further relieving hoarseness and promoting a healthy voice.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Saponins: Saponins help to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, thereby alleviating hoarseness and promoting a healthy voice.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to protect the vocal cords from damage and reduce irritation, resulting in a smoother and more pleasant voice.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as isoflavones and flavanones, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, promoting a healthy and clear voice.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps soothe and reduce inflammation in the throat, making it ideal for teas to alleviate hoarseness.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and protect the vocal cords, making them suitable for teas to treat hoarseness.
- Stems: They are a lesser-known but still valuable part of Glycyrrhiza glabra, which contain some glycosides and flavonoids that contribute to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful in teas for hoarse voice relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for hoarse voice.
- Harvest fresh or dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Rinse 1-2 teaspoons of the roots with filtered water to remove any impurities.
- Steep the rinsed roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove roots.
- Serve the tea hot or iced immediately after straining and enjoy as desired.
4. Hedera helix
Hedera helix, also known as ivy, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The leaves of the plant contain compounds that can help to reduce swelling and calm irritated vocal cords. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have strained their voice due to overuse, screaming, or other vocal strain. Regular consumption of Hedera helix tea may also help to promote healing and restore a smooth, clear tone to the voice.
Its natural properties make it a popular remedy for vocal health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hedera helix teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Terpenes: Terpenes in Hedera helix teas may help soothe an irritated throat and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating hoarseness.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Hedera helix teas possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, contributing to a more normal voice.
- Flavonoids: Isoorientin, a flavonoid found in Hedera helix teas, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate throat inflammation and promote healing, which in turn may help resolve hoarseness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ivy used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Leaves: Hedera helix leaves are commonly used to make tea due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the throat.
- Flowers: Hedera helix flowers are used to make tea to calm the throat and promote a smooth, clear voice due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Roots: Hedera helix roots are used to make tea to help alleviate hoarseness and throat irritation due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ivy for hoarse voice.
- Gather 2-4 teaspoons of dried hedera helix leaves for every 8 ounces of water you will be using.
- Steep the dried leaves in the hot water for 5-10 minutes to allow for full extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the leaves and prevent further bitterness.
- Store the tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Reheat the tea before serving by gently warming it over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its anti-inflammatory properties and high mucilage content.
The mucilage in dandelion root soothes and protects the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation that can cause hoarseness. Additionally, dandelion root contains antioxidants and flavonoids that help to combat free radicals and promote healing, allowing the voice to recover and return to its normal tone and pitch.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate vocal strain and promote vocal health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation in the vocal cords, soothing a hoarse voice by minimizing irritation and promoting healing.
- Phenolic acids: As antioxidant agents, phenolic acids in Taraxacum officinale tea help to combat oxidative stress and damage to the vocal cords, thereby alleviating hoarseness.
- Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in soothing and protecting the mucous membranes of the larynx, thus reducing the discomfort and severity of a hoarse voice.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make teas for hoarse voice because they contain flavonoids and saponins that help to soothe and calm the throat.
- Flowers: Flowers are used to make teas for hoarse voice because they have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling in the throat.
- Roots: Roots are used to make teas for hoarse voice because they contain inulin and other compounds that help to calm and soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hoarse voice.
- Gather 2 to 4 taraxacum officinale roots or leaves from a trusted source and clean them thoroughly.
- Dry the gathered taraxacum officinale in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
- Grind 2 to 4 teaspoons of the dried taraxacum officinale into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground taraxacum officinale in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain and serve the taraxacum officinale tea immediately after steeping or store it in the refrigerator.
6. Verbascum thapsus
Verbascum thapsus, also known as mullein, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its soothing properties that calm and reduce inflammation in the throat.
The tea's demulcent and mucilaginous properties create a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, soothing and moisturizing them. This helps to ease irritation and inflammation, allowing the voice to heal and recover.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in mullein tea also help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort, making it an effective natural remedy for a hoarse voice.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Verbascum thapsus teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Saponins: These compounds help soothe and calm inflammation in the throat, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with hoarse voice.
- Phenolic acids: The antioxidant properties of phenolic acids in Verbascum thapsus help protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the vocal cords.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, which can contribute to a hoarse voice.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mullein used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Leaves: They are used due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help calm the throat and reduce irritation.
- Flowers: They are used because of their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve congestion and soothe the throat.
- Stems: They are used due to their rich content of mucilages, which can help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mullein for hoarse voice.
- Harvest the fresh or dried leaves and flowers of verbascum thapsus in the morning when they are at their most potent and fragrant.
- Dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a warm and well-ventilated area for several days to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Measure out one to two teaspoons of dried verbascum thapsus per cup of boiling water for a standard tea dosage.
- Steep the dried leaves and flowers in boiling water for five to ten minutes to allow their active ingredients to infuse.
- Strain the tea and serve it hot or chilled to enjoy its potential health benefits and soothing flavor.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its soothing properties and natural anti-inflammatory compounds.
The tea's anethole content helps to reduce inflammation in the throat, providing quick relief from irritation and discomfort. Additionally, fennel's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear mucus, allowing the voice to heal and recover more efficiently.
As a result, fennel tea has been traditionally used to alleviate hoarseness and promote a healthier, more soothing vocal experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Foeniculin: Foeniculin is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the throat and vocal cords, thereby alleviating hoarseness.
- Anethole: Anethole is a phenolic compound that has expectorant properties, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the throat, which can contribute to hoarseness by obstructing the vocal cords.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Foeniculum vulgare have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect the vocal cords from oxidative stress and damage caused by inflammation, leading to hoarseness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Seeds: Used for teas due to their carminative and expectorant properties, helping to relieve congestion and promote a smooth voice.
- Leaves: Utilized in teas for their mucilaginous properties, which soothe and protect the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with a hoarse voice.
- Fruits: Employed in teas for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to clear mucus and reduce throat irritation, thus alleviating hoarseness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for hoarse voice.
- Harvest approximately 2 tablespoons of dried foeniculum vulgare leaves and flowers from a clean environment.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the harvested foeniculum vulgare in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove any remaining solids.
- Add honey to taste to sweeten the tea if desired for palatability reasons.
- Serve the tea immediately while still warm for optimal flavor and aroma.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea contains apigenin, an antioxidant that calms and relaxes the vocal cords, reducing inflammation and irritation. Chamomile tea also has a natural antiseptic effect, which helps to eliminate bacteria and other microorganisms that may be contributing to the hoarseness. Additionally, chamomile's calming properties can help to reduce stress and tension, which can exacerbate a hoarse voice.
As a result, drinking chamomile tea can provide relief and promote a healthy, smooth voice.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation in the throat, thereby soothing a hoarse voice.
- Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm an irritated throat and alleviate hoarseness.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce throat inflammation and promote a healthy vocal cord environment, ultimately relieving hoarseness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Flowers: Used to soothe and calm the throat, reducing inflammation and promoting a smooth voice.
- Leaves: Used to add a gentle, herbal flavor and to help reduce inflammation in the throat, easing hoarseness.
- Seeds: Used to add a subtle, slightly bitter flavor and to provide additional anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for hoarse voice.
- Harvest fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers when in full bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
- Dry the flowers in a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove loose flowers and particles.
- Allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking it for maximum relaxation benefits.
9. Malva sylvestris
Malva sylvestris, also known as mallow, teas helps with hoarse voice because of its soothing properties.
The mucilages present in the plant's leaves and flowers create a protective layer on the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation. This helps to calm the vocal cords and restore a smooth, clear tone. The tea's anti-inflammatory effects also help to reduce swelling and redness, promoting a healthy environment for vocal recovery.
As a result, Malva sylvestris teas can provide quick relief from hoarseness and support a healthy vocal range.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Malva sylvestris teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with hoarse voice.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as malvadiol and malvalic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, allowing for a smoother and more comfortable vocal experience.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including ellagic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help protect the vocal cords and surrounding tissues from damage, promoting a healthy and clear voice.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mallow used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for hoarse voice because of their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for hoarse voice because of their mucilaginous properties, which help to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
- Stems: They are used to make teas for hoarse voice because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mallow for hoarse voice.
- Gather 2 tablespoons of dried malva sylvestris flowers and place them in a heat-resistant cup.
- Boil 8 ounces of water in a kettle and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the cooled water over the dried flowers in the cup and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another cup.
- Add honey to taste and enjoy your herbal tea immediately.
10. Rosa rugosa
Rosa rugosa, also known as beach rose, teas helps with hoarse voice because it contains anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the throat.
The tea's antioxidants and flavonoids work to reduce inflammation and irritation, allowing the vocal cords to recover from strain and fatigue. This natural remedy also helps to break down mucus and phlegm, promoting a clearer and more comfortable voice.
Regular consumption of Rosa rugosa tea may also help to prevent recurring hoarseness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rugosa teas that help with hoarse voice.
- Rutin: Rutin, a flavonoid glycoside, helps alleviate hoarse voice by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation to the throat, which can help soothe and heal vocal cords.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, thereby alleviating hoarse voice and promoting healthy vocal cord function.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect the vocal cords from damage and promote healing, which can lead to a smoother and more pleasant voice.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of beach rose used to make teas for hoarse voice.
- Roots: Roots are commonly used to make teas for a hoarse voice due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used in teas for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help relieve a hoarse voice.
- Barks: Barks are also used in teas due to their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate a hoarse voice.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic beach rose for hoarse voice.
- Harvest rosa rugosa flowers in mid-to-late summer when they are fully bloomed and fragrant for 3-4 hours.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at 95-105 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried rosa rugosa flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids in 2-3 minutes.
- Serve the tea hot or chilled within 30 minutes of preparation and enjoy.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for hoarse voice?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with hoarse voice is a soothing blend of Slippery Elm, Throat Coat, and Licorice Root.
Slippery Elm helps to calm inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes, while Throat Coat provides a protective barrier to shield the throat from further irritation. Licorice Root, rich in antioxidants, reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Drinking this combination of teas several times a day can help to reduce hoarseness and promote a healthy, smooth voice.
What ailments similar to hoarse voice are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to hoarse voice that are treated with herbal teas are coughs, sore throats, and respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma.
Herbal teas like slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root help soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Other herbs like peppermint, ginger, and eucalyptus also aid in relieving congestion and coughs, providing natural relief from these respiratory issues.