13 Best Herbal Teas For Phlegm

Herbal teas for Phlegm are a type of tea made from various herbs and plants that help to clear mucus and congestion in the body, reducing symptoms of coughing, sneezing, and congestion.

These teas can treat phlegm ailments because they contain natural expectorants and decongestants that help to break down and expel mucus from the lungs and airways.

Examples of herbal teas that can help to treat phlegm include ginger tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and ease congestion, and thyme tea, which contains compounds that help to loosen and clear mucus.

Other herbal teas that can be effective in treating phlegm include peppermint tea, which helps to ease coughing and congestion, eucalyptus tea, which has decongestant properties to clear airways, and licorice root tea, which has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

Below there's a list of the 13 best herbal teas for phlegm.

1. Eucalyptus globulus teas

Eucalyptus globulus teas have been traditionally used to treat the phlegm ailment, particularly in respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and coughs.

The properties of this herbal preparation, including its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, help to thin and clear mucus from the lungs, making it easier to expel.

The bioactive constituents, such as eucalyptol and cineole, have been shown to exhibit mucolytic and bronchodilatory effects, which aid in relieving congestion and promoting easier breathing.

The benefits of using Eucalyptus globulus teas to treat the phlegm ailment include rapid relief from coughs and congestion, improved respiratory function, and a reduction in the risk of complications associated with respiratory infections.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried Eucalyptus globulus leaves.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a pot.
3. Add the dried Eucalyptus globulus leaves to the boiling water.
4. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the leaves.
5. Drink the tea while it's warm, 2-3 times a day to help relieve phlegm.

Eucalyptus globulus teas can be effective in treating phlegm ailments, but they may cause side effects such as digestive issues, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications due to their active compounds like eucalyptol and cineole.

To use Eucalyptus globulus teas safely, it is essential to drink them in moderation, avoid consuming them before surgery or with other herbs that may cause bleeding, and keep them out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

2. Echinacea purpurea teas

Echinacea purpurea teas have been traditionally used to treat phlegm ailments due to their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.

The bioactive constituents of Echinacea purpurea, including alkylamides, glycosides, and phenolic acids, help to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system, thereby alleviating phlegm-related symptoms.

By promoting the clearance of mucus and reducing congestion, Echinacea purpurea teas help to treat phlegm ailments such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

The benefits of using Echinacea purpurea teas to treat phlegm ailments include reduced symptoms, improved respiratory function, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried Echinacea purpurea flowers and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the Echinacea flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a cup and discard the Echinacea flowers.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve phlegm.

Echinacea purpurea teas can potentially cause allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, itching, and swelling, in some individuals, especially when consumed in large quantities or for extended periods.

To minimize side effects, it's essential to start with small doses, monitor your body's response, and avoid using Echinacea purpurea teas if you have a known allergy to plants in the daisy family or are taking immunosuppressive medications.

3. Zingiber officinale teas

Zingiber officinale teas, derived from the root of the ginger plant, have been traditionally used to treat phlegm-related ailments due to their anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

The bioactive constituents of Zingiber officinale teas, including gingerols and shogaols, help to break down and expel mucus from the respiratory system, providing relief from congestion and coughs.

This herbal preparation helps to treat phlegm by reducing inflammation and promoting the clearance of excess mucus, ultimately alleviating symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath.

The benefits of using Zingiber officinale teas to treat phlegm ailments include a reduction in respiratory symptoms, improved lung function, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of fresh Zingiber officinale (ginger) root.
2. Wash the ginger root with clean water and peel it.
3. Chop the ginger root into small pieces and put them in a saucepan.
4. Add the cup of water to the saucepan and bring it to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat, let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, then strain the tea and serve hot.

Zingiber officinale teas can be beneficial in treating the phlegm ailment, but possible side effects include nausea, stomach upset, and digestive issues due to its strong ginger flavor and potential interaction with certain medications.

To minimize these side effects, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase the amount, also be cautious when consuming Zingiber officinale teas if you have a sensitive stomach or are prone to heartburn.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra teas

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas have been traditionally used to treat the phlegm ailment due to their antitussive and expectorant properties, which help to relieve cough and congestion.

The bioactive constituents present in these teas, including glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, contribute to their therapeutic effects by reducing inflammation and suppressing the production of mucus.

By reducing phlegm production and inflammation, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas help to alleviate symptoms associated with the phlegm ailment, such as coughing and shortness of breath.

Regular consumption of these teas may also provide additional benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to promote overall respiratory health.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Glycyrrhiza glabra roots or 2 teaspoons of dried roots.
2. Cut the roots into small pieces and place them in a saucepan with 2 cups of water.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain the liquid into a cup using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Drink 1 cup of the tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve phlegm and cough.

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas can be used to treat phlegm ailments, but excessive consumption may lead to side effects such as water retention, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of potassium deficiency due to the licorice root's potential to disrupt the body's natural potassium balance.

To minimize risks, it is essential to consume Glycyrrhiza glabra teas in moderation, ideally with meals, and monitor blood pressure and potassium levels closely, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

5. Thymus vulgaris teas

Thymus vulgaris teas, derived from the leaves of the thyme plant, have been traditionally used to treat phlegm ailments due to their expectorant properties, which help in relieving congestion and promoting the elimination of excess mucus from the respiratory system.

The herbal preparation contains bioactive constituents such as thymol and carvacrol, which possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the respiratory tract, reducing inflammation and congestion.

By facilitating the removal of phlegm and reducing inflammation, Thymus vulgaris teas provide relief from coughs, colds, and respiratory infections associated with phlegm ailments, making it a natural and effective remedy for promoting respiratory health.

The benefits of using Thymus vulgaris teas to treat phlegm ailments include improved respiratory function, reduced risk of complications, and a natural approach to managing symptoms without the side effects associated with conventional medications.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers.
2. Heat 1 cup of water until it's boiling.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of Thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers to the boiling water.
4. Reduce heat and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and drink 1/2 cup, 2-3 times a day, as needed.

Thymus vulgaris teas can be used to treat phlegm ailments, but possible side effects may include allergic reactions, gastrointestinal upset, and interactions with certain medications.

Precautions should be taken when using Thymus vulgaris teas, such as monitoring blood pressure, avoiding excessive consumption, and being cautious with individuals with sensitive stomachs or taking antacids.

6. Rosmarinus officinalis teas

Rosmarinus officinalis teas, a herbal preparation derived from the leaves of the rosemary plant, have been traditionally used to treat phlegm ailments due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents of this herbal preparation, including rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, and ursolic acid, help to break down and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, thereby alleviating symptoms of phlegm.

The benefits of using Rosmarinus officinalis teas to treat phlegm include improved respiratory function, reduced congestion, and a decrease in the production of mucus.

Regular consumption of this herbal preparation may also help to prevent the recurrence of phlegm ailments, making it a valuable natural remedy for those suffering from respiratory issues.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Rosmarinus officinalis leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried leaves.
2. Heat 1 cup of water in a pot until it starts boiling.
3. Add the Rosmarinus officinalis leaves to the boiling water and reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the leaves from the liquid.
5. Drink 1 cup of the tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve phlegm.

Rosmarinus officinalis teas can help alleviate phlegm ailments, but possible side effects may include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset due to its potential to interact with certain medications and exacerbate sensitive stomach conditions.

Precautions should be taken to avoid using Rosmarinus officinalis teas in high doses or for extended periods, as this may lead to dizziness, headaches, or allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with allergies or sensitivities to herbs in the Lamiaceae family.

7. Lavandula angustifolia teas

Lavandula angustifolia teas, also known as English lavender tea, have been traditionally used to treat phlegm ailments due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents, including linalool and linalyl acetate, help to break down and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel.

This herbal preparation helps to treat phlegm ailments by reducing inflammation and congestion, thereby providing relief from coughs and colds.

The benefits of using Lavandula angustifolia teas to treat phlegm ailments include reduced severity of symptoms, improved respiratory function, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Lavandula angustifolia flowers or 2 tablespoons of dried flowers.
2. Heat 1 cup of water in a pot until it boils.
3. Add the Lavandula angustifolia flowers to the boiling water and remove from heat.
4. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain it into a cup.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help with phlegm, but consult a doctor for proper guidance.

Lavandula angustifolia teas can be effective in treating phlegm ailments, but they may cause side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, and allergic reactions in some individuals.

To use Lavandula angustifolia teas safely, it is recommended to start with small amounts, avoid consuming it before bedtime due to its sedative properties, and monitor your body's reaction closely.

8. Mentha x piperita teas

Mentha x piperita teas, also known as peppermint teas, have been traditionally used to treat phlegm-related ailments due to their natural expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents, including menthol, menthone, and limonene, help to break down and clear out mucus from the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel.

By promoting a thin and watery consistency of phlegm, peppermint teas aid in relieving congestion and coughing associated with phlegm buildup.

Regular consumption of peppermint teas may also help to soothe the throat and alleviate symptoms of phlegm-related conditions, such as bronchitis and asthma.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried Mentha x piperita leaves and 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Steep the leaves in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a cup using a tea strainer or cheesecloth.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste, if needed.
5. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help relieve phlegm.

Mentha x piperita teas can be used to help alleviate phlegm ailments, but its use may lead to side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions in some individuals.

When using Mentha x piperita teas to treat phlegm, it is essential to take precautions, such as drinking it in moderation, avoiding it if you have sensitive stomachs, and being cautious when consuming it with other medications or herbs.

9. Sambucus nigra teas

Sambucus nigra teas have been traditionally used to treat phlegm-related ailments due to their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents present in Sambucus nigra teas, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and glycosides, help to thin mucus, reduce congestion, and soothe the respiratory tract.

This herbal preparation helps to treat phlegm by promoting the clearance of excess mucus, thereby alleviating symptoms of coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

The benefits of using Sambucus nigra teas to treat phlegm include relief from respiratory discomfort, reduced risk of complications, and a boost to the immune system.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 cup of Sambucus nigra flowers and 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
2. Steep the Sambucus nigra flowers in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid into another cup to remove the flowers.
4. Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to taste, if desired.
5. Drink the tea immediately and repeat as needed, ideally 2-3 times a day.

Sambucus nigra teas can be an effective treatment for phlegm, but possible side effects may include allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, as well as stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea due to the high content of anthraquinones and other compounds.

To minimize potential side effects, individuals should start with small amounts, avoid using it for extended periods, and be cautious when combining it with other medications or substances, especially those affecting blood sugar levels or blood pressure.

10. Ginkgo biloba teas

Ginkgo biloba teas have been traditionally used to treat the phlegm ailment due to their unique properties, which help to thin and clear excess mucus from the respiratory system.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in this herbal preparation, such as quercetin and bilobalide, exhibit expectorant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it easier to expel phlegm and alleviate congestion.

By promoting the clearance of mucus, Ginkgo biloba teas help to relieve symptoms associated with phlegm accumulation, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

The benefits of using Ginkgo biloba teas to treat phlegm include reduced inflammation, improved respiratory function, and enhanced overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried Ginkgo biloba leaves.
2. Combine 1 teaspoon of the leaves with 1 cup of boiling water in a tea infuser or a heat-resistant cup.
3. Let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes. Strain the leaves if using a tea infuser.
4. Drink 1 cup of the Ginkgo biloba tea 2-3 times a day, with or without honey to taste.
5. Consult a doctor or a healthcare professional before using Ginkgo biloba for medical purposes, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or allergies.

Ginkgo biloba teas can be used to help alleviate phlegm symptoms, but possible side effects may include stomach upset, diarrhea, and allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those who are sensitive to ginkgo's unique compounds.

To minimize potential risks, individuals should start with small amounts, monitor their body's response, and avoid using ginkgo biloba teas in combination with blood thinners or other medications, as this may exacerbate any adverse effects.

11. Salvia officinalis teas

Salvia officinalis teas are a traditional herbal remedy used to treat the phlegm ailment, also known as phlegm congestion or excess mucus production.

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Salvia officinalis teas help to treat this ailment by reducing the production of mucus and alleviating congestion in the respiratory tract.

The bioactive constituents of Salvia officinalis, including rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid, and carnosic acid, exhibit their medicinal properties to treat phlegm by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and modulating the immune system.

The benefits of Salvia officinalis teas in treating phlegm include rapid relief from congestion, reduced risk of respiratory infections, and improved overall respiratory health.

Recipe:

1. Get 1 cup of boiling water and 1 tablespoon of dried Salvia officinalis leaves.
2. Pour the boiling water over the leaves in a cup and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the leaves from the water using a tea strainer or a piece of cheesecloth.
4. Drink the tea 2-3 times a day to help with phlegm. You can add honey for taste if needed.
5. Store any leftover tea in the fridge and drink within 24 hours. Discard any tea that's been sitting for too long.

Salvia officinalis teas can be used to treat phlegm ailments, but consuming large quantities may lead to gastrointestinal upset, including nausea and stomach discomfort.

To minimize potential side effects, it is essential to brew the tea according to the recommended guidelines, as excessive consumption can also cause headaches and dizziness in some individuals.

12. Cinchona officinalis teas

Cinchona officinalis teas have been traditionally used to treat the phlegm ailment, known as kapha or cold, due to their natural expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive constituents, including quinine, alkaloids, and flavonoids, help to loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract, reducing congestion and promoting easier breathing.

This herbal preparation helps to treat the phlegm ailment by thinning and draining excess mucus, relieving cough and cold symptoms, and soothing the throat and airways.

Regular consumption of Cinchona officinalis teas can provide relief from phlegm-related ailments and promote overall respiratory health, making it a popular natural remedy in traditional medicine.

Recipe:

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried Cinchona officinalis bark.
2. Boil 1 cup of water and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the dried Cinchona officinalis bark to the water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or a tea strainer into a cup.
5. Drink the tea while warm, ideally 2-3 times a day to help relieve phlegm.

Cinchona officinalis teas can be used to treat the phlegm ailment, but possible side effects include nausea, dizziness, and stomach upset due to its high quinine content.

Precautions include taking the tea in moderation, avoiding consumption with other stimulants, and being aware of potential allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive stomachs or those prone to quinine sensitivity.

13. Ephedra sinica teas

Ephedra sinica teas have been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat the phlegm ailment, also known as phlegm-dampness syndrome.

The herbal preparation is effective in treating this ailment due to its properties of being warm in nature, drying in action, and clearing in function, which help to dispel dampness and phlegm from the body.

The bioactive constituents of Ephedra sinica, including ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and sinicatine A and B, exhibit anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, which aid in reducing phlegm production and promoting its removal from the body.

The benefits of using Ephedra sinica teas to treat the phlegm ailment include rapid relief from symptoms such as cough, congestion, and lethargy, as well as improved respiratory function and overall well-being.

Recipe:

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried Ephedra sinica herb and 1 cup of water.
2. Boil the water in a pot and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Add the Ephedra sinica herb to the simmering water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the herb.
5. Drink the tea hot or warm, 2-3 times a day, to help relieve phlegm.

Ephedra sinica teas can be used to treat the phlegm ailment, but they may cause side effects such as increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and insomnia due to the presence of ephedrine, a stimulant that can also lead to nausea and dizziness in some individuals.

To minimize potential risks, it's essential to start with small doses, be mindful of the duration of use, and avoid consuming Ephedra sinica teas in combination with other stimulants or medications, especially those that can interact with the body's cardiovascular system.