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Last updated: Jul 03, 2024

10 best herbal teas for sore throat

best herbal teas for sore throat herbs

Herbal teas for sore throat are a natural and soothing remedy that can provide relief from the discomfort and pain associated with a sore throat.

These teas work by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and loosening mucus, which helps to ease congestion and promote healing. Examples of herbal teas that are effective in soothing a sore throat include slippery elm, licorice root, and echinacea tea.

Drinking these teas can greatly improve the quality of life for those suffering from a sore throat, allowing them to feel more comfortable and confident while speaking, eating, and socializing.

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

1. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme teas helps with sore throat because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The essential oils present in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to combat bacteria and viruses that cause sore throats, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, the warm liquid soothes the throat and provides relief from itchiness and scratchiness.

As a result, drinking herbal thyme teas can provide quick and effective relief for a sore throat, allowing you to feel better in no time.

herbal teas for sore throat thymus vulgaris herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme teas that aid with sore throat.

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

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

  1. Harvest fresh or dried thymus vulgaris leaves measuring one tablespoon for every cup of boiling water.
  2. Bring filtered water to a boil in a tea kettle or pot and let it simmer for five minutes.
  3. Steep the thyme leaves in the hot water for seven to ten minutes allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth squeezing out any remaining liquid.
  5. Serve the soothing herbal tea warm or at room temperature with one to two teaspoons of honey for added comfort.

2. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The menthol present in peppermint oil also acts as a decongestant, loosening mucus and allowing for easier drainage. Additionally, peppermint's cooling sensation provides instant relief by numbing the affected area, providing temporary pain relief.

As a result, herbal peppermint teas can offer effective and natural relief from sore throats, making it a popular remedy for many people.

herbal teas for sore throat mentha x piperita herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint teas that aid with sore throat.

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

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

  1. Gather one teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves or two teaspoons of fresh peppermint leaves.
  2. Boil one cup of water in a teapot and let it cool for one minute to reach 200-210 degrees fahrenheit.
  3. Add the gathered peppermint leaves to the boiling water and allow it to steep for five minutes.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
  5. Serve the warm tea immediately and drink three cups within the next six hours.

3. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower teas helps with sore throat because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea contains compounds such as salicylic acid, which are similar to aspirin, helping to reduce swelling and ease pain in the throat. Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial agents, like echinacein, help combat the underlying infection causing the soreness, allowing for a faster recovery.

As a natural remedy, purple coneflower tea offers a soothing and comforting way to alleviate discomfort and promote healing of the throat.

herbal teas for sore throat echinacea purpurea herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in purple coneflower teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for sore throat.

  1. Gather one teaspoon of dried echinacea purpurea flowers for every eight ounces of boiling water.
  2. Heat filtered water in a saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil and then let it simmer for five minutes.
  3. Add the dried echinacea flowers to a heat-resistant cup or teapot and pour the hot water over them.
  4. Allow the mixture to steep for ten to fifteen minutes or according to package instructions.
  5. Strain the tea into another cup using a piece of cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve and serve warm.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb, Glycyrrhiza glabra, contains compounds that reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat, providing quick relief from pain and itching. Additionally, licorice root has antiseptic qualities, which help combat infections that may be causing the soreness.

By soothing and calming the affected area, licorice teas provide a natural remedy for alleviating sore throats, making it an effective and comforting way to ease discomfort.

herbal teas for sore throat glycyrrhiza glabra herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice teas that aid with sore throat.

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

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

  1. Harvest dried licorice root from the store or grow your own glycyrrhiza glabra plant.
  2. Measure out one teaspoon of dried licorice root for every eight ounces of boiling water.
  3. Steep the licorice root in boiling water for seven to ten minutes to release its active compounds.
  4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup or teapot.
  5. Allow the tea to cool and drink it slowly while still warm to soothe sore throats immediately.

5. Zingiber officinale

Ginger teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compound, gingerol, reduces swelling and relieves pain in the throat, providing instant comfort to those suffering from a scratchy or hoarse voice. As it soothes the mucous membranes, it also helps to thin mucus, making it easier to expel and promoting a speedy recovery.

Additionally, its warming properties help to stimulate blood flow to the affected area, further accelerating the healing process.

herbal teas for sore throat zingiber officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for sore throat.

  1. Boil one cup of water for five minutes to reach the optimal temperature for releasing ginger's medicinal compounds.
  2. Grate one-inch piece of fresh ginger root into a heat-resistant container or infuser using a fine grater or microplane.
  3. Add the grated ginger to the boiling water and let it steep for seven to ten minutes to allow the active ingredients to dissolve.
  4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup, discarding the solids and reserving the liquid.
  5. Sweeten the tea with one teaspoon of honey and stir well before consuming within 30 minutes of preparation to maximize its soothing benefits.

6. Cymbopogon citratus

Lemongrass teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.

The tea's high concentration of citral, a compound found in lemongrass, also has antibacterial properties that combat infection-causing bacteria and viruses.

Additionally, lemongrass contains antioxidants that help to soothe and calm irritated throat tissues, providing quick relief from soreness and pain.

herbal teas for sore throat cymbopogon citratus herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemongrass teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for sore throat.

  1. Measure two teaspoons of dried lemongrass leaves into a heat-resistant teapot or infuser.
  2. Boil one cup of fresh water in a kettle and pour it over the lemongrass leaves.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes to release the herbal properties.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a strainer or infuser and discard the solids.
  5. Drink the warm tea immediately, sweeten with honey if desired.

7. Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.

The tea's expectorant properties also help loosen and clear mucus, making it easier to breathe and swallow. Additionally, fennel contains antioxidants that soothe and calm the throat lining, reducing inflammation and pain caused by a sore throat.

By drinking fennel tea regularly, you can find relief from the discomfort and pain associated with a sore throat.

herbal teas for sore throat foeniculum vulgare herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in fennel teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried foeniculum vulgare leaves and stalks in amounts of one tablespoon.
  2. Combine harvested material with boiling water in a heat-resistant container filled to the brim.
  3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the herbal compounds to infuse into the liquid.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth discarding solids.
  5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before consumption within 30 minutes.

8. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle teas helps with sore throat because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The tea's natural astringent properties help to dry up excess mucus, allowing for easier swallowing and relieving congestion. Additionally, the antioxidants in stinging nettle tea may help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes, reducing pain and inflammation associated with sore throats.

As a result, stinging nettle teas provide effective relief from the discomfort of a sore throat.

herbal teas for sore throat urtica dioica herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in stinging nettle teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for sore throat.

  1. Harvest one cup of fresh or dried stinging nettle leaves from organic sources for every quart of water needed.
  2. Rinse the harvested nettle leaves with cold running water and gently pat them dry with a clean cloth.
  3. Combine the dried or fresh nettle leaves with one quart of boiling distilled water in a large heat-resistant glass measure.
  4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes at room temperature before straining it using a fine-mesh sieve.
  5. Store the cooled and strained tea in an airtight container and consume one cup every hour or as needed.

9. Malva sylvestris

Mallow teas helps with sore throat because of its unique combination of mucilages, which provide a protective coating to soothe and calm irritated tissues.

The tea's anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce swelling and ease discomfort, allowing for faster healing. Additionally, the soothing properties of mallow tea can help to relax the muscles in the throat, reducing tension and pain associated with sore throats.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide relief from the discomfort and annoyance caused by a sore throat.

herbal teas for sore throat malva sylvestris herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in mallow teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of mallow used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mallow for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh malva sylvestris leaves and flowers, then rinse them gently under cold running water.
  2. Combine one teaspoon of dried or two teaspoons of fresh mallow herb with one cup boiling water in a teapot.
  3. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the herbal properties to infuse into the hot water.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids, then add honey to taste if desired sweetening.
  5. Drink the warm tea immediately, aiming to consume three cups daily for optimal sore throat relief.

10. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion teas helps with sore throat because it contains anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the throat.

The tea's flavonoids also have antiviral properties, which can help combat infections that cause sore throats. Additionally, dandelion tea is rich in antioxidants that promote healing and soothe the mucous membranes, providing quick relief from discomfort.

Overall, drinking dandelion tea can be a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of a sore throat.

herbal teas for sore throat taraxacum officinale herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion teas that aid with sore throat.

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

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

  1. Gather one tablespoon of dried or fresh dandelion roots or leaves from taraxacum officinale plants.
  2. Boil one quart of water in a large pot and pour it over the herb ingredients.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes to release active compounds and flavors.
  4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a teapot or cup, discarding solids.
  5. Serve the dandelion tea hot or warm, with optional sweeteners like honey if desired.

11. Stevia rebaudiana

Stevia teas helps with sore throat because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as stevioside and rebaudioside, have been shown to reduce swelling and combat infection-causing bacteria that can contribute to a sore throat.

Additionally, the soothing warmth of the tea can help relieve discomfort and ease the pain associated with a sore throat, making it a natural and effective remedy for fast relief.

herbal teas for sore throat stevia rebaudiana herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in stevia teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of stevia used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stevia for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh leaves of stevia rebaudiana for immediate use or dry them for later brewing.
  2. Combine 10 grams of dried stevia rebaudiana leaves with 500ml of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
  3. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean cup to remove solids.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey and a slice of fresh lemon to taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
  5. Drink the warm herbal stevia rebaudiana tea immediately, allowing the soothing properties to work on your sore throat.

12. Hypericum perforatum

St John's wort teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The herb contains hyperforin, a compound that reduces swelling and discomfort in the throat, providing relief from pain and inflammation. Additionally, St John's wort has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial infections, which can cause sore throats.

When consumed as a tea, St John's wort's soothing and calming effects ease congestion and promote healing, ultimately helping to alleviate symptoms of a sore throat.

herbal teas for sore throat hypericum perforatum herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in st john's wort teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh hypericum perforatum leaves and flowers in a clean container.
  2. Dry the harvested material in a warm place or using a food dehydrator for 1-2 hours.
  3. Mix one teaspoon of dried hypericum perforatum with boiling water in a teapot.
  4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the tea.
  5. Strain and drink immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

13. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold teas helps with sore throat because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The tea contains calendulin, a compound that soothes irritated mucous membranes and reduces swelling in the throat. Additionally, pot marigold's flavonoids and triterpenoids have been shown to inhibit bacterial growth and fight off infections, which can contribute to sore throats.

By sipping on warm pot marigold tea, individuals may experience relief from discomfort and pain, as well as a reduced risk of further infection.

herbal teas for sore throat calendula officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in pot marigold teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for sore throat.

  1. Harvest one teaspoon of dried calendula flowers for every cup of boiling water.
  2. Combine the calendula flowers with 250ml of boiling water in a teapot or infuser.
  3. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes allowing the flavors and benefits to meld together.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a tea strainer or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
  5. Drink the warm tea immediately to soothe and calm a sore throat.

14. Verbena officinalis

Lemon verbena teas helps with sore throat because of its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal tea contains compounds like citral and limonene, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause infection in the throat. As you sip on the warm tea, these active ingredients help soothe the irritated tissues, reducing pain and discomfort.

Additionally, lemon verbena's natural astringent properties may also help constrict blood vessels, further reducing swelling and promoting faster healing of the sore throat.

herbal teas for sore throat verbena officinalis herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in lemon verbena teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon verbena used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon verbena for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried verbena officinalis leaves and flowers in amounts of one teaspoon per cup.
  2. Combine the herb with boiling water in a heat-resistant teapot or infuser for five minutes.
  3. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large mug or teacup to remove solids.
  4. Add honey or lemon to taste and stir well before serving immediately.
  5. Allow the tea to steep at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before refrigerating for up to two days.

15. Gaultheria procumbens

Wintergreen teas helps with sore throat because of its unique properties.

The tea contains a compound called methyl salicylate, which is similar to aspirin in its ability to reduce pain and inflammation. When consumed as a warm tea, it helps to soothe and calm the throat, providing quick relief from discomfort and irritation.

Additionally, wintergreen's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help to combat infections that may be causing the soreness, promoting faster healing and a reduced risk of complications.

herbal teas for sore throat gaultheria procumbens herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wintergreen teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves or use dried form as needed weighing out one teaspoon per cup of boiling water.
  2. Measure and mix two cups of filtered cold water with one teaspoon of dried gaultheria procumbens leaves for steeping time.
  3. Heat the mixture by placing it in a saucepan over medium heat until boiling point is reached for five minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let steep for twenty to thirty minutes allowing the herbal properties to infuse into the liquid.
  5. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and discard solids serving warm as needed.

16. Rumex crispus

Curly dock teas helps with sore throat because it contains a unique combination of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as anthraquinones and phenolic acids, which work together to reduce swelling and discomfort in the throat.

The soothing properties of curly dock also help to calm irritated mucous membranes, allowing for easier breathing and speaking.

Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the soreness, promoting a quicker recovery from this common affliction.

herbal teas for sore throat rumex crispus herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in curly dock teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of curly dock used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curly dock for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh rumex crispus leaves or purchase dried ones from a reputable supplier.
  2. Combine one teaspoon of dried or two teaspoons of fresh leaves with boiling water.
  3. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes allowing the active compounds to infuse into the liquid.
  4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
  5. Allow the tea to cool slightly before drinking it immediately or storing it in the refrigerator.

17. Plantago major

Plantain teas helps with sore throat because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The soothing compounds in plantain tea, such as allantoin and cymarin, help to calm irritated mucous membranes, providing instant relief from scratchiness and pain.

Additionally, the antioxidant-rich tea helps to boost the immune system, fighting off underlying infections that may be contributing to the soreness, allowing for a faster recovery and reduction in throat discomfort.

herbal teas for sore throat plantago major herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in plantain teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for sore throat.

  1. Gather one cup of dried or fresh plantago major leaves and flowers for this soothing remedy.
  2. Combine the collected herbs with two cups of boiling water in a large glass teapot or infuser.
  3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes depending on the desired strength of the tea.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
  5. Drink the tea three to four times daily as needed or as directed by a healthcare professional.

18. Cinchona pubescens

Jesuit's bark teas helps with sore throat because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

The tea contains a compound called catechin, which reduces swelling in the throat and relieves pain associated with a sore throat. Additionally, the tea's antimicrobial properties help combat bacteria and viruses that cause infection, promoting faster healing and reducing the severity of symptoms.

By soothing and calming the affected area, Jesuit's bark teas provides quick relief from discomfort and allows for a speedy recovery.

herbal teas for sore throat cinchona pubescens herbs

The list below shows the primary active constituents in jesuit's bark teas that aid with sore throat.

The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make teas for sore throat.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for sore throat.

  1. Harvest fresh or dried cinchona pubescens leaves according to recommended standards.
  2. Rinse the harvested leaves with cold filtered water to remove any impurities thoroughly.
  3. Measure out one teaspoon of cinchona pubescens leaves and add it to a boiling kettle containing 8 ounces of distilled water instantly.
  4. Steep the mixture for precisely 10 minutes allowing the active compounds to infuse and release their healing properties gradually.
  5. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth before serving hot or warm to soothe the sore throat effectively.

How to best treat sore throat with herbal teas?

The best way to treat sore throat with herbal teas is to brew a warm cup of Throat Coat tea, containing slippery elm, licorice root, and marshmallow root.

Drink it several times a day to soothe the irritated mucous membranes. Additionally, try ginger tea, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain.

You can also add lemon and honey to enhance its therapeutic effects.

What ailments similar to sore throat are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to sore throat that are treated with herbal teas are coughs, bronchitis, and laryngitis.

Herbal teas such as thyme, eucalyptus, and peppermint help soothe irritated throats and relieve congestion. Ginger tea is also effective in reducing inflammation and calming a scratchy throat.

These teas work by providing antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and expectorants that help break down mucus and reduce discomfort.