10 Best Herbal Teas For Throat Congestion

Herbal teas for throat congestion are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of throat irritation and inflammation.

They work by soothing the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation, and loosening mucus, making it easier to clear out. Examples of effective herbal teas include peppermint, ginger, eucalyptus, and thyme.

Drinking these teas can improve lives by providing quick relief from coughs, sore throats, and congestion, allowing individuals to breathe easier and sleep better.

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

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with throat congestion because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost the immune system.

The tea's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, help to reduce swelling and fight off viral and bacterial infections that cause congestion. Additionally, Echinacea purpurea's antiviral properties help to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes, providing quick relief from sore throats and congestion.

This natural remedy is often used to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with throat congestion.

• Cichoric acid: A type of phenolic acid, cichoric acid helps reduce inflammation and soothe the throat, making it easier to breathe and swallow when congested.
• Caffeic acid: A polyphenolic compound, caffeic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate throat congestion by reducing swelling and promoting healthy tissue recovery.
• Alkylamides: A class of non-nitrogenous compounds, alkylamides in Echinacea purpurea have immunomodulatory effects that help regulate the body's immune response and reduce symptoms associated with throat congestion, such as coughing and soreness.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are commonly used because of their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate throat congestion.
• Flowers: They are often used to make teas for throat congestion because of their high concentration of alkylamides, which have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects that can help boost the body's defense against infections.
• Roots: They are frequently used due to their rich content of glycosides and other compounds that have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect the throat from congestion and infection.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 ounces of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in late summer or early fall.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Grind 1-2 teaspoons of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the echinacea powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to make a tea.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

2. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with throat congestion because of its expectorant properties, which facilitate the removal of mucus from the respiratory tract.

The active compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the swelling and kill the bacteria causing the infection.

As a result, thyme tea helps to soothe and clear the throat, providing relief from coughs and congestion, making it a popular remedy for respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Thymol: Thymol acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the throat, making it easier to breathe and relieving congestion.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, providing relief from discomfort and congestion.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections that may be contributing to throat congestion, such as a sore throat or tonsillitis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of thymol, a compound with antimicrobial and expectorant properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to add a flavorful and aromatic touch to teas, while also providing some relief from throat congestion with their mild antimicrobial properties.
• Buds: The buds are used in some herbal teas for their ability to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat, although less commonly used than leaves and flowers.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh thyme leaves from the garden or store-bought container by pinching off the stems.
2. Dry the harvested thyme leaves in a single layer on a paper towel at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves with 1 cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the thyme tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove loose thyme particles.
5. Discard the thyme leaves and serve the tea hot or chilled according to personal preference immediately.

3. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, teas helps with throat congestion because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The flavonoids and terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba work to reduce swelling in the throat and nasal passages, making it easier to breathe. Additionally, the tea's expectorant properties help to loosen and clear out mucus, allowing for improved airflow and relief from congestion.

This makes Ginkgo biloba tea a popular natural remedy for soothing a sore throat and alleviating respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with throat congestion.

• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, making it easier to breathe and alleviate congestion.
• Bilobalide: This triterpene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help soothe and calm the throat, reducing irritation and discomfort caused by congestion.
• Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpenes have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which can help combat respiratory infections and reduce congestion by breaking down excess mucus and opening airways.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make teas for throat congestion.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are used to make teas for throat congestion due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and reduce swelling in the throat.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used to make teas for throat congestion due to their expectorant properties, which help to loosen and clear mucus from the throat.
• Buds: Ginkgo biloba buds are used to make teas for throat congestion due to their antibacterial properties, which help to combat infections and reduce inflammation in the throat.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for throat congestion.

1. Harvest 10-15 ginkgo biloba leaves from a mature tree in late summer or early fall.
2. Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and properties to infuse.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately, discarding the solids and enjoying the warm beverage.

4. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, teas helps with throat congestion because of its decongestant properties.

The tea contains eucalyptol, a natural compound that helps to break down and clear mucus from the airways. This allows for easier breathing and alleviates discomfort caused by congestion. By reducing inflammation and promoting drainage, the tea helps to relieve coughs and sore throats, providing quick relief for those suffering from respiratory issues.

Regular consumption can also help to soothe and calm the throat.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus teas that help with throat congestion.

• Eucalyptol: This terpene acts as a natural expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the throat, making it easier to breathe.
• Cineole: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, providing relief from congestion.
• Rifaterpinene: This terpene has decongestant properties, helping to open airways and reduce mucus production, making it easier to breathe and relieving throat congestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make teas for throat congestion.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant that helps relieve throat congestion.
• Buds: The buds are used for their high eucalyptol content, which helps to open airways and reduce inflammation in the throat.
• Barks: The barks are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe and protect the throat from infections and irritation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for throat congestion.

1. Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the early morning for optimal oil content and flavor.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 95°f for 2 hours to preserve their potency.
3. Grind 1 teaspoon of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder for easy infusion.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of ground eucalyptus globulus powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal infusion.

5. Mentha x piperita

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

The menthol in peppermint helps to thin out mucus, making it easier to expel, which in turn reduces pressure on the throat. Additionally, peppermint's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the throat, reducing irritation and discomfort.

As a result, drinking peppermint tea can provide quick relief from throat congestion, making it 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 throat congestion.

• Menthol: Acts as a natural expectorant, helping to loosen and clear mucus from the throat, thereby reducing congestion and soreness.
• Eugenol: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the throat, making it easier to breathe and swallow.
• Caryophyllene: Possesses analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate throat pain and discomfort associated with congestion.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high menthol content, which helps to relax the muscles in the throat and relieve congestion.
• Stems: Stems of Mentha x piperita are used as they contain a similar concentration of menthol and other compounds that help to ease congestion and soothe the throat.
• Flowers: Although less commonly used than leaves and stems, the flowers of Mentha x piperita are still utilized for their mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing throat inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh leaves from mentha x piperita plants in the early morning.
2. Rinse the leaves gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of fresh or dried leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the leaves.
5. Add honey to taste to balance the flavor of the tea.

6. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with throat congestion because of its expectorant properties, which help loosen and clear mucus from the airways.

The tea's anti-inflammatory properties also reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, providing relief from coughing and soreness. Additionally, the antioxidants present in sage tea help combat infections and promote overall respiratory health, allowing for easier breathing and a faster recovery from congestion.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe and calm irritated throats.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with throat congestion.

• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that helps to reduce inflammation and congestion in the throat by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Salvianolic acids: A group of polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat, thereby alleviating congestion.
• Thymol: A terpene with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that helps to reduce the growth of bacteria and other pathogens in the throat, thereby reducing congestion and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for throat congestion.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis are used to make teas for throat congestion because of their high content of volatile oils and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm the throat.
• Buds: The buds of Salvia officinalis are used to make teas for throat congestion because they contain high amounts of flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties that help loosen and clear mucus from the throat.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis are used to make teas for throat congestion because they contain high amounts of tannins and flavonoids, which have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and soothe the throat.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for throat congestion.

1. Gather 2 teaspoons of dried salvia officinalis leaves and 1 cup of boiling water for the tea base.
2. Steep the dried leaves in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the flavors.
3. Strain the tea mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a cup or teapot to remove solids.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste if desired to sweeten the herbal tea.
5. Serve the tea immediately and enjoy within 30 minutes for optimal flavor and benefits.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with throat congestion because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids.

These compounds help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the throat, making it easier to breathe and swallow. The soothing properties of licorice tea also help to calm irritation and coughs, providing relief from throat congestion.

Additionally, the expectorant properties of licorice tea help to loosen and clear mucus, further relieving congestion and promoting a more comfortable and healthy throat.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licorice saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat, providing relief from congestion.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to reduce inflammation and kill pathogens that can cause throat congestion.
• Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to break up and clear mucus from the throat, thereby relieving congestion.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe throat congestion.
• Leaves: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for relieving throat irritation.
• Barks: Have been traditionally used to make teas that can help reduce inflammation and calm the throat, due to their content of glycosides and phenolic compounds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots for every 8 oz of water required.
2. Heat 8 oz of water to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit in a saucepan.
3. Steep the dried roots in the heated water for 5-10 minutes to release the flavors.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature for consumption within 5 minutes.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with throat congestion because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones and taraxasterol, work to reduce swelling and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, making it easier to breathe and swallow. Additionally, the tea's diuretic properties help to clear mucus and reduce fluid buildup, providing quick relief from congestion and coughs.

Its expectorant properties also aid in thinning mucus, making it easier to expel.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apolyphenones: Apolyphenones, a type of phenolic compound, in Taraxacum officinale teas have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues in the throat, thereby alleviating congestion.
• Taraxasterols: Taraxasterols, a group of triterpene saponins, exhibit expectorant properties, facilitating the removal of mucus and other secretions from the respiratory tract, making it easier to breathe and relieving throat congestion.
• Fatty acids: Fatty acids present in Taraxacum officinale teas, such as oleic and linoleic acids, have anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, which help break down mucus and reduce inflammation in the throat, thereby alleviating congestion and promoting easier breathing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of taraxasterol, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and alleviate throat congestion.
• Flowers: They are used because of their high content of taraxasterol and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties to soothe a sore throat.
• Roots: They are used due to their rich content of inulin, a prebiotic that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of throat congestion.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers for a total of 2 teaspoons of dried plant material.
2. Heat 8 ounces of water in a pot to a temperature of 212 degrees fahrenheit for 5 minutes.
3. Steep the taraxacum officinale in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes to release its active ingredients.
4. Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove the plant material.
5. Allow the tea to cool to a temperature of 98 degrees fahrenheit before consumption for 10 minutes.

9. Euphorbia esula

Euphorbia esula, also known as leafy spurge, teas helps with throat congestion because of its rich anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

The herbal tea contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other bioactive compounds that help to reduce swelling and ease the discomfort associated with a sore throat. By thinning mucus and promoting its expulsion, Euphorbia esula tea alleviates congestion and soothes the throat, providing fast relief from coughs, sore throats, and respiratory issues.

This natural remedy has been traditionally used to combat respiratory problems.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Euphorbia esula teas that help with throat congestion.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Euphorbia esula teas help with throat congestion by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the throat, thereby alleviating swelling and discomfort.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Euphorbia esula teas exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce throat congestion by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals.
• Saponins: Saponins in Euphorbia esula teas may help to break down and clear mucus from the throat, making it easier to breathe and relieving congestion.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of leafy spurge used to make teas for throat congestion.

• Leaves: Euphorbia esula leaves are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to calm a sore throat.
• Roots: Euphorbia esula roots are used to make teas due to their expectorant properties that help to loosen and clear mucus from the throat.
• Rhyzomes: Euphorbia esula rhyzomes are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to reduce swelling and combat infections in the throat.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic leafy spurge for throat congestion.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh euphorbia esula leaves and stems at dawn when moisture levels are highest.
2. Dry the harvested euphorbia esula in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Grind 5-7 grams of dried euphorbia esula into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground euphorbia esula powder in 250 milliliters of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the euphorbia esula tea through a cheesecloth and serve immediately after preparation is complete.

10. Verbascum thapsus

Verbascum thapsus, also known as mullein, teas helps with throat congestion because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the mucous membranes.

The tea's high content of saponins, flavonoids, and mucilages creates a protective barrier on the throat, reducing inflammation and irritation. This helps to loosen and clear excess mucus, providing quick relief from coughs, colds, and respiratory issues.

The tea's calming properties also help to reduce throat spasms, making it a popular natural remedy for throat congestion.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to break down mucus and reduce inflammation in the throat, providing relief from congestion.
• Mucilage: This thick, protective substance forms a physical barrier on the mucous membranes, helping to soothe and calm irritated tissues, which in turn can reduce throat congestion.
• Flavonoids: These plant compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce swelling and combat underlying infections that contribute to throat congestion.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Verbascum thapsus are used to make teas for throat congestion because of their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the throat.
• Roots: The roots of Verbascum thapsus are used to make teas for throat congestion because they are rich in saponins, which have expectorant properties that help loosen and clear mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Flowers: The flowers of Verbascum thapsus are used to make teas for throat congestion because they are rich in mucilages, which help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the throat.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried verbascum thapsus flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Clean 1 tablespoon of dried verbascum thapsus or 2 tablespoons of fresh verbascum thapsus to remove any dirt.
3. Steep 1 tablespoon of dried verbascum thapsus in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its properties.
4. Strain the verbascum thapsus tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
5. Serve the verbascum thapsus tea hot or iced immediately to enjoy its flavor and benefits.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with throat congestion is a blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and licorice root.

Peppermint tea's cooling properties and menthol content help to numb the throat, while eucalyptus tea's decongestant properties loosen mucus and ease breathing. Licorice root tea, with its anti-inflammatory properties, soothes and calms the throat, reducing swelling and pain.

Drinking these teas together can provide quick relief from throat congestion and promote overall respiratory health.

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

Ailments similar to throat congestion that are treated with herbal teas are respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, and coughs.

Herbal teas like eucalyptus, peppermint, and thyme have natural decongestant properties that help relieve chest congestion and ease breathing.

Additionally, teas containing slippery elm, marshmallow root, and licorice root soothe sore throats and reduce inflammation, providing relief from these respiratory issues.