By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Throat Redness
Herbal teas for throat redness are a natural remedy that helps alleviate discomfort and inflammation associated with a sore throat.
These teas are made from herbs like slippery elm, peppermint, and chamomile, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
Drinking these teas can provide instant relief, reduce pain, and promote healing, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities and enjoy a better quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for throat redness, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Ulmus rubra
- 3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 4. Althaea officinalis
- 5. Thymus vulgaris
- 6. Sambucus nigra
- 7. Mentha x piperita
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Curcuma longa
- 10. Calendula officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for throat redness?
- What ailments similar to throat redness are treated with herbal teas?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with throat redness because its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues in the throat.
The tea's immunomodulatory effects also help to boost the body's natural defenses, reducing the severity and duration of throat infections.
Additionally, its antiviral and antimicrobial properties help to combat the underlying causes of throat redness, promoting a faster recovery and alleviating symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and difficulty swallowing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia teas that help with throat redness.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly echinacoside, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness and swelling in the throat.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia, such as echinamine and echinacin, exhibit antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, which aid in preventing or reducing the severity of throat infections.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and protect the throat mucosa from damage caused by inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make teas for throat redness.
- Roots: They contain the highest concentration of echinacoside, an alkaloid responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
- Leaves: They have a high content of phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Roots (second mention): The roots are also a rich source of polysaccharides, which stimulate the immune system and help reduce throat redness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for throat redness.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of echinacea angustifolia roots and clean them thoroughly with water.
- Dry the roots at 40°c for 2-3 hours using a food dehydrator or oven.
- Grind 2-3 teaspoons of dried echinacea roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of ground echinacea with 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve immediately or let it cool before refrigerating for later use.
2. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, teas helps with throat redness because of its unique mucilaginous properties.
The tea's soothing and protective properties form a physical barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with a sore or irritated throat. This natural barrier also helps to lock in moisture, promoting healing and calming the affected area.
As a result, Ulmus rubra teas can provide quick and effective relief from throat redness, making it a popular natural remedy for throat health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with throat redness.
- Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates form a protective, soothing layer on the mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with throat redness.
- Tannins: As a type of phenolic compound, tannins possess astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and alleviate soreness in the throat.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the underlying causes of throat redness, such as oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make teas for throat redness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated throats.
- Barks: The barks of Ulmus rubra contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help calm and heal sore throats.
- Roots: The roots of Ulmus rubra are rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat throat infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for throat redness.
- Gather 1-2 cups of fresh red elm leaves or 1/2 cup dried leaves from a trusted source.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the chopped leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids completely.
- Store the cooled tea in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with throat redness because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The saponins and flavonoids present in the licorice root work together to reduce swelling and soothe the mucous membranes in the throat, providing quick relief from irritation and discomfort.
Additionally, the tea's natural antibacterial and antiviral properties help to combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the redness, promoting a faster recovery and a healthy throat.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with throat redness.
- Licorice flavonoids: These flavonoids exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and redness in the throat.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which can help to calm and protect the mucous membranes in the throat.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This isoflavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and alleviate throat redness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for throat redness.
- Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and soothe the throat.
- Barks: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties and to help calm the throat.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas that have anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, helping to ease throat redness and congestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for throat redness.
- Gather 2 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 1 quart of boiling water to steep.
- Steep the roots in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reaches a temperature of 95°f.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the roots.
- Add honey to taste to sweeten the tea and mix well to combine.
- Allow the tea to cool before serving and drinking the herbal remedy immediately.
4. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, teas helps with throat redness because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The roots and leaves of this plant contain mucilages, which are complex carbohydrates that create a soothing, protective barrier on the mucous membranes. This barrier helps to reduce inflammation and irritation, calming the throat and providing relief from discomfort.
The antiseptic properties of Althaea officinalis also help to combat infections, promoting a speedy recovery and alleviating throat redness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with throat redness.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with redness.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as 11-oxo-oleanolic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and redness in the throat.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the throat, alleviating redness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make teas for throat redness.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used to make teas for throat redness due to their high mucilage content, which provides soothing and protective properties.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are utilized to make teas because they contain a similar mucilage composition to the roots, offering relief from throat irritation and inflammation.
- Stems: The stems of Althaea officinalis are also used to make teas for throat redness, as they contribute to the overall mucilage content and provide a soothing effect on the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for throat redness.
- Harvest 1-2 teaspoons of dried roots of althaea officinalis in the morning.
- Rinse the dried roots in cold water for 5 minutes to remove impurities.
- Steep the dried roots in a teapot with 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids immediately after steeping.
- Let the tea cool for 10-15 minutes before serving at room temperature.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with throat redness because it contains antimicrobial properties that combat the underlying infection causing inflammation.
The herbal tea's antiseptic qualities help to reduce swelling and soothe the irritated throat tissues, allowing for faster healing and relief from discomfort. Additionally, thyme's expectorant properties can help to loosen and clear mucus, further aiding in the reduction of throat redness and promoting overall respiratory health.
This natural remedy can provide quick and effective relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with throat redness.
- Thymol: It helps reduce inflammation and fights bacterial infections that cause throat redness, promoting healing and relief.
- Carvacrol: It possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial and viral infections, reducing throat redness and discomfort.
- Rosmarinic acid: It is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and protect the throat from further damage, thereby alleviating throat redness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for throat redness.
- Leaves: Thyme leaves contain thymol, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm throat irritation.
- Flowers: Thyme flowers have a similar composition to leaves and are often used to make teas that provide relief from throat redness and irritation.
- Stems: Thyme stems also contain thymol and other active compounds that help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, making them a suitable option for teas to treat throat redness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for throat redness.
- Gather fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers from a trusted source weighing about 1 ounce.
- Dry the gathered thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers in a low temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Infuse 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers in a cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the thymus vulgaris tea using a fine mesh sieve into a cup.
- Allow the tea to cool and drink within 30 minutes for optimal flavor and benefits.
6. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with throat redness because of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
The flavonoids and anthocyanins present in elderberry have been shown to inhibit the replication of viruses responsible for cold and flu. This helps in reducing the severity and duration of throat infections.
Additionally, the soothing and protective qualities of elderberry help to calm and shield the throat from further irritation, promoting quick recovery and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with throat redness.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate throat redness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that reduce swelling and soothe irritated tissues.
- Phenylethyl alcohol and geraniol: These terpenoids contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that help combat throat infections and reduce redness.
- Isoquercetin: This glycoside exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce throat irritation, soothe redness, and promote overall healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for throat redness.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are commonly used to make teas for throat redness due to their high content of flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: Sambucus nigra leaves are used to make teas for throat redness because they contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.
- Buds: The buds of Sambucus nigra are used to make teas for throat redness as they contain a mixture of flavonoids and phenolic acids that exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for throat redness.
- Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves when in full bloom and at their peak potency.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a warm place or using a dehydrator for 1-2 hours.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried sambucus nigra flowers and leaves per 8 oz of boiling water.
- Steep the dried flowers and leaves in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea and serve hot or cold, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint if desired.
7. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with throat redness because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol content in peppermint oil has a cooling effect on the throat, reducing swelling and discomfort associated with redness. Additionally, peppermint's expectorant properties help loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways.
This can provide quick relief from throat irritation, promoting a smooth and comfortable breathing experience.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with throat redness.
- Linalool: This terpene helps with throat redness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of bacteria and other pathogens that can exacerbate throat irritation.
- Menthol: This terpene helps with throat redness by providing a cooling sensation that can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation in the throat, while also exhibiting antimicrobial properties to prevent infection.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps with throat redness by exhibiting potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the throat and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for throat redness.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: Stems also contain essential oils that contribute to the tea's soothing effects, helping to reduce throat inflammation and congestion.
- Buds: Mint buds are particularly rich in menthol and other volatile oils, making them a popular choice for teas aimed at relieving throat irritation and redness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for throat redness.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the morning for maximum oil content.
- Rinse the leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the harvesting process.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces using sharp kitchen scissors for easier infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solid plant material.
8. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with throat redness because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the throat. The warm, soothing effect of ginger tea can also help to loosen mucus and promote drainage, providing quick relief from throat irritation and redness.
Regular consumption of ginger tea may also help to boost the immune system, reducing the frequency of throat infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with throat redness.
- Gingerols: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and redness associated with throat irritation.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of gingerol, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, which can help alleviate throat discomfort and redness.
- Zingerone: Zingerone, a derivative of gingerols, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm an inflamed throat, reducing redness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for throat redness.
- Buds: Ginger buds are also used to make teas for throat redness because they contain a higher concentration of volatile oils and have a more potent flavor and aroma compared to the mature rhizomes.
- Roots: Ginger roots can be used to make teas for throat redness, especially in traditional medicine, as they possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for throat redness.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried zingiber officinale root and place it in a tea infuser.
- Boil 8 ounces of water in a tea kettle for 2-3 minutes to reach a rolling boil.
- Steep the zingiber officinale root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its flavor.
- Strain the tea into a cup using the infuser and discard the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving and drinking immediately.
9. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with throat redness because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric reduces inflammation and soothes the mucous membranes in the throat, providing quick relief from redness and irritation. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help combat infections and promote a healthy environment, allowing the throat to heal faster and reducing the duration of discomfort.
This natural remedy is a popular choice for alleviating throat redness and promoting overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with throat redness.
- Curcumin: It has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe throat redness.
- Demethoxycurcumin: This compound has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat infections that cause throat redness.
- Tumerone: A sesquiterpene present in turmeric, tumerone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate throat redness and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make teas for throat redness.
- Rhyzomes: They are used to make teas for throat redness because they contain curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce inflammation and soothe the throat.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for throat redness because they also contain curcumin and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to calm the throat.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for throat redness because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe the throat.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for throat redness.
- Harvest 1 to 2 teaspoons of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes for immediate use or dry them for later use.
- Clean and peel the rhizomes under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Chop the peels into fine pieces using a sharp knife or a food processor for better infusion.
- Steep the chopped rhizomes in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids to serve immediately.
10. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with throat redness because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The tea's flavonoids and phenolic acids work together to reduce swelling and combat bacterial infections, soothing irritated throat tissues. Additionally, calendula's antiviral properties help to alleviate viral infections that may cause throat redness. The tea's soothing and calming effects also promote relaxation, allowing the throat to heal and recover more efficiently.
This natural remedy provides relief from throat redness and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with throat redness.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, particularly caffeic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and soothe throat redness.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Calendula officinalis, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help alleviate throat redness and swelling.
- Carotenoids: Although not as prominent as in other plants like marigold, beta-carotene in Calendula officinalis may contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe throat redness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for throat redness.
- Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are commonly used to make teas for throat redness due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are used to make teas for throat redness due to their soothing and calming effects.
- Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis are used to make teas for throat redness due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for throat redness.
- Harvest the calendula flowers at their peak of potency when they are in full bloom typically mid to late summer.
- Dry the freshly harvested flowers completely either air drying or using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours.
- Measure out one teaspoon of dried calendula flowers for every 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the calendula flowers in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the calendula tea hot or iced.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for throat redness?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with throat redness is a soothing blend of Slippery Elm, Echinacea, and Throat Coat.
Slippery Elm calms and protects the mucous membranes, while Echinacea boosts the immune system and fights off infections. Throat Coat tea, containing ingredients like marshmallow root and licorice root, provides additional anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and pain.
Together, these teas create a powerful remedy to alleviate throat discomfort and promote a speedy recovery.
What ailments similar to throat redness are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to throat redness that are treated with herbal teas are various respiratory issues, such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.
Herbal teas like peppermint, eucalyptus, and thyme help soothe and calm the respiratory system, reducing inflammation and congestion.
Ginger tea can also aid in relieving a sore throat, while licorice root tea helps to reduce inflammation and protect the mucous membranes.