Sore throats begin with a tickle before ballooning into an irritating problem. While many over-the-counter medications exist to eliminate the symptom, most people have just as effective remedies hiding in their cupboards to help. Teas made from different herbs and spices have ancient ties to treatment for a variety of issues, including the common cold and sore throats. Warm liquids are great for sore throats and tea is no exception. These teas are all especially good for sore throats, plus they each come with an additional healing perk or two. Read on to find out what to drink up to get to feeling better.
Sore Throat & Cold: Chamomile
Chamomile, also known as pot marigold, is one of the oldest medicinal herbs known to man for many reasons and uses. The crushed, dried flowers brewed for tea can alleviate soreness in the throat, hoarseness, and has traditionally seen use for the common cold, according to the Molecular Medicine Report.
Sore Throat & Excess Mucous: Peppermint
Well-known for its role as a seasonal flavoring during the winter, peppermint tea uses the leaves and stems of the plant that contain the menthol, the main medicinal component. Tea made from peppermint historically treats sore throats, as well as thins the mucous built up from sickness, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Sore Throat & Irritation: Slippery Elm
Slippery elm for human consumption is harvested from the inner bark of the tree and has been commercially sold to treat upper inflammatory conditions. Although studies are determining the herb’s medicinal uses, it has long been used to soothe sore throats by coating the membranes, relieving irritation, according to the Journal of Investigational Biochemistry.
Sore Throat, Cold, and Asthma: Licorice Root
Extremely sweet, tea made from powdered roots saw use previously as a remedy for the cold, sore throat and asthma. However, licorice can be a dangerous herb when not taken in correct dosages, causing headaches, high blood pressure, and sometimes muscle pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Sore Throat & Colds (& Cancer?): Horehound
Commonly found in drier climates, this herb is classified as a weed, but research has shown that it’s medicinal properties are scientifically supported. The anti-inflammatory properties have been previously used to help aid sore throats and treat other cold symptoms, but could potentially be used to combat cancer, according to an Oncology Report for the Spandidos Publications.
Sore Throat, Cough, & Respiratory Health: Turmeric
Generally thought of as a flavorful spice, turmeric has ancient roots worldwide for treatment of a variety of symptoms, including laryngitis, vertigo, and anxiety neurosis. In a recent report on the spice’s medicinal properties and applications, all patients treated for cough, sore throats, and other respiratory irritations found relief in the spice, according to the Indian Journal of Research in Homeopathy.
Sore Throat, Irritation & Nausea: Lemon Ginger
Slightly spicy, ginger adds a layer of flavor to tea as well as an effective way to combat a sore throat and provide anti-inflammatory assistance. In addition, ginger has a history of being used to tame nausea and further research is being conducted on the spice’s various uses, according to Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
Sore Throat & Cold: Echinacea
Native to North America, the purple coneflower leaves and petals brew a medicinal tea that, while controversial, has shown great impact in treating and diminishing the severity of the common cold and its symptoms. The herb is most effective when taken as soon as symptoms appear, and the tea consumed multiple times in the first three days, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
These teas can be made just to enjoy as well, no illness required. However, if used to treat a sore throat or other symptoms, talk to a physician in the event any side effects or reactions occur. Teas infused with two of the above-mentioned herbs can also be brewed for chances of increasing effectiveness against a sore throat.
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