Top 7 Best Teas For Sore Throats Most Recommended By Experts

Ah, the dreaded sore throat. That scratchy, sandpapery sensation that turns swallowing into a battlefield and makes even a whisper feel like a shout. But fear not, fellow tea-lover! Before you reach for the lozenges or gargle with questionable concoctions, consider the humble teacup – your steaming savior in this time of throaty woe. That’s why we have done the research for you and compiled this list of the best teas for sore throats.

For centuries, herbal teas have been revered for their soothing and healing properties. And when it comes to a sore throat, these botanical brews are like a magic balm for your inflamed tissues. But with so many options lining the shelves, choosing the right type of tea can be as confusing as deciphering a doctor’s handwriting.

Worry not, dear reader! This guide will be your compass, navigating you through the world of throat-soothing teas and highlighting the best brews to battle your vocal cord foe. We’ll explore the power of anti-inflammatory herbs, the mucus-loosening magic of certain blends, and the throat-coating comfort that only a perfectly steeped cup can provide.

Powering through common ailments is practically an American pastime. Studies have shown that a quarter of us choose to “muscle through” symptoms like coughing, stuffy noses, and yes, even sore throats. We’re a nation of deadlines, commitments, and to-do lists, and sometimes, a scratchy throat just isn’t enough to derail the train. For those working remotely, a recent survey by OnePoll paints a concerning picture: 66 percent of Americans working remotely believe taking sick days for anything less than COVID-19 would be frowned upon by their employer. Yikes! That’s over two-thirds feeling pressure to soldier on, sniffles and all.

So before you start worrying about whether to call in sick, try one of the top seven best teas for a sore throat according to experts. Grab your favorite mug, settle in with a cozy blanket, and let’s embark on a journey to soothe your sore throat and restore your voice to its melodious glory. These teas were selected for our list based on what was recommended most across eight expert lists. Remember, a cup of tea a day might just keep the doctor away… or at least make the sore throat bearable until you get there! Let us know your favorite sore throat herbal remedy in the comments.

The List: Best Tea for a Sore Throat, According to Experts

1. Green Tea

Known for its numerous health benefits, green tea is the top recommendation of our experts. Green tea offers more than just a light and refreshing beverage. According to All Recipes, it’s loaded with health-promoting benefits thanks to its abundance of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and, most importantly, antioxidants. Research even suggests that gargling warm green tea can help soothe a sore throat.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Eating Well cautions that, due to its caffeine content, green tea might not be the best bedtime drink if you’re sensitive to caffeine. They also offer brewing tips, reminding us that over-steeping can lead to bitterness. Aim for three minutes for a flavorful and vibrant cup every time.

Real Simple sums up the essence of green tea perfectly: it’s a powerful beverage with numerous health advantages. Consistent consumption may benefit brain function, reduce heart disease risks, and even offer some protection against certain cancers. And who can forget its comforting warmth when battling a cold? So, brew yourself a cup and enjoy the taste and potential health benefits that green tea has to offer.

2. Chamomile Tea

The soothing properties of Chamomile extend beyond relaxation and sleep to soothe your sore throat too. Chamomile tea isn’t just a delicious and calming beverage; it also boasts impressive health benefits, particularly for sore throats. Real Simple highlights its effectiveness due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, offering welcome relief during times of discomfort.

Beyond just sore throats, Healthline cites numerous studies that have explored the potential of chamomile in treating various conditions. They point out that while most effective for sore throats caused by colds, chamomile might also ease other cold symptoms. And even if drinking feels unpleasant, inhaling chamomile steam can still be helpful.

Mind Body Green further expands on its soothing properties, mentioning how chamomile lubricates the throat, reducing hoarseness and discomfort. Its antispasmodic effect adds another layer of relief by potentially easing those pesky cough symptoms that often accompany a sore throat.

So, the next time a sore throat strikes, consider brewing a cup of chamomile tea. Not only will its warmth and flavor be comforting, but the potential health benefits might just have you feeling better sooner rather than later. Remember, the science is still evolving, but centuries of use and ongoing research make chamomile tea a worthy natural remedy to explore.

3. Licorice Root Tea

The taste of this next tea might not be preferred by some, especially if you dislike licorice. However, the benefits might just outweigh your tastebuds choice. Licorice root tea, with its subtly sweet flavor, isn’t just a nostalgic treat; it also carries potential benefits for sore throats, according to Prevention. They cite a paper by the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, highlighting the root’s antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which could be key in fighting off the culprits behind infectious sore throats.

So, how does it work? Insider explains that three key substances in licorice root play a role:

• Liquiritin and liquiritigenin act as expectorants, helping loosen mucus and making coughs more productive.
• Glycyrrhizin acts as a demulcent, providing a protective coating over your throat that can soothe irritation when swallowing.

Dr. Glatter, MD, interviewed by Women’s Health, confirms that while licorice root tea is traditionally known for aiding digestive issues, its antibacterial and antiviral activity can also benefit sore throats. They even encourage those who enjoy the slightly sweet flavor to consider sipping on it when feeling unwell.

It’s important to remember that research on the effectiveness of licorice root tea for sore throats is still ongoing. However, its historical use in traditional medicine and the presence of potentially beneficial compounds make it a potential natural remedy worth considering. Just be sure to consult with your doctor before using licorice root tea, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

4. Peppermint Tea

There’s nothing like peppermint to help open up your sinuses, but can it help soothe a sore throat too? Yes, it can! Sipping peppermint tea when feeling under the weather can be a comforting and potentially helpful experience. Real Simple highlights the cooling effect of menthol, providing a numbing sensation for sore throats and acting as a natural decongestant through the steam. For persistent coughs, Mind Body Green emphasizes the benefits of menthol, mentioning its additional ability to soothe upset stomachs and clear sinuses.

However, Women’s Health reminds us that moderation is key, as menthol can dry out tissues. While incorporating peppermint tea into your routine can be beneficial, chugging it down throughout the day is not recommended.

5. Marshmallow Root Tea

Next on our list of the top seven best teas to soothe your sore throat is a lesser-known tea called marshmallow root. Don’t be fooled by its name, marshmallow root tea doesn’t taste like the campfire treat. All Recipes explains it comes from the marshmallow root, which produces a substance called mucilage that coats the throat and provides a soothing effect for sore throats. However, they caution that mucilage might interact with oral medications, so consulting your doctor before indulging is crucial.

While it might be unfamiliar, Real Simple highlights marshmallow root’s long history in natural remedies, including treating coughs, soothing sore throats, and even clearing skin irritants and aiding digestion. Prevention adds that the root’s pain-relieving properties, particularly regarding inflammation, make it a potential ally against sore throats. So, the next time a sore throat strikes, consider a cup of marshmallow root tea – just remember to check with your doctor first if you’re taking any medications.

6. Ginger Tea

When you think of something soothing for your throat, ginger tea might not be what first comes to mind because of the slight burning sensation when swallowing it. But that might be exactly what you need to get rid of any infection in your throat. Ginger tea shines as a potential ally against sore throats thanks to its multifaceted approach. As Mind Body Green points out, studies highlight its effectiveness in treating swelling and inflammation, both common culprits in sore throat discomfort. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties lend support to your immune system, potentially aiding in fighting off viruses like RSV, a frequent cause of respiratory issues.

Real Simple reinforces ginger’s benefits, citing dietitian Melissa Wasserman Baker who explains its ability to reduce throat inflammation and antibacterial properties. This makes it a versatile remedy for various ailments, including sore throats, stomach aches, and even fevers.

For those who find ginger’s natural spiciness a bit too intense, Women’s Health offers a soothing solution: adding honey and cinnamon to your cup. Honey not only provides sweetness but also offers an extra layer of comfort for your irritated throat. Bonus points for cinnamon, which, according to Women’s Health, can help boost your body’s natural defenses against infection.

7. Turmeric Tea

Last, but certainly not least, on our list of the top 7 best teas to relieve a sore throat is turmeric tea. You’ve probably heard of tumeric for cooking or as a health supplement, but have you tried it as a tea? Turmeric, a vibrant spice commonly found in curries and known for its vibrant yellow color, offers more than just culinary uses. Prevention highlights its long history in South Asian countries as an infection-fighting antiseptic. Recent research suggests that sipping turmeric tea, derived from the ginger family, could harness its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, potentially aiding in various ailments. It’s even known to soothe upset stomachs.

Real Simple delves deeper, explaining that the secret lies in curcumin, a key ingredient in turmeric. This power duo boasts antioxidant properties that can boost your immune system, particularly helpful when battling a cold. Additionally, turmeric may lend a hand in alleviating arthritis pain.

However, its distinct flavor might not be for everyone. Women’s Health offers a solution: adding honey, ginger, or a touch of stevia to your turmeric tea can make it more palatable. Remember, while promising, research on turmeric’s effectiveness for specific conditions is still ongoing. Consulting your doctor before using any new remedy, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, is always advisable.

The next time you find your throat becoming a bit swollen or scratchy, grab your favorite mug and brew up one of the best teas for a sore throat. Comment below which works best for you. Let us know of others you have found to be helpful!

Sources:

• All Recipes
• Eating Well
• Real Simple
• Healthline
• Mind Body Green
• Prevention
• Insider
• Women’s Health

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.