A cough can be irritating and uncomfortable, but sipping on a warm cup of tea can offer much-needed relief. Many types of tea are known for their healing properties, particularly when dealing with a cough, sore throat, or other cold symptoms. These teas not only soothe the throat but also help alleviate coughs by reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and loosening mucus. Here are 12 healing types of tea to drink when you have a cough, each with unique properties to help you feel better naturally.
Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root tea is known for its soothing properties, making it an excellent choice for alleviating a cough. Licorice contains compounds that help reduce throat irritation and inflammation, providing relief from coughing. It also acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen mucus and clear the respiratory system.
Benefits of Licorice Root Tea:
- Reduces inflammation
- Soothes the throat
- Helps expel mucus
Green Tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which support the immune system and help fight off infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties can ease a sore throat and reduce coughing. Green tea also has mild antiviral and antibacterial effects, making it a great option to sip on when you’re feeling under the weather.
Benefits of Green Tea:
- Boosts immune function
- Reduces inflammation
- Fights off infections
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is well-known for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a comforting option when you have a cough. The tea soothes the throat, relaxes muscles, and can help ease tension in the chest caused by coughing. Drinking chamomile tea before bed can also promote better sleep, which is essential for recovery.
Benefits of Chamomile Tea:
- Reduces throat irritation
- Calms the body and mind
- Promotes restful sleep
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea contains menthol, a compound that acts as a natural decongestant. It helps break down mucus and soothe the throat, making it easier to breathe when you’re experiencing a cough. Peppermint tea can also reduce the urge to cough by numbing the throat and calming irritated airways.
Benefits of Peppermint Tea:
- Acts as a natural decongestant
- Eases breathing
- Calms irritated airways
Marshmallow Root Tea
Marshmallow root tea is another excellent choice for soothing a cough. It contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that coats the throat and reduces irritation. This tea is particularly effective for dry coughs, as it helps hydrate and protect the throat from further irritation.
Benefits of Marshmallow Root Tea:
- Soothes dry coughs
- Hydrates and coats the throat
- Reduces irritation
Thyme Tea
Thyme tea has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for respiratory issues, including coughs. It contains compounds that help relax the throat muscles and reduce coughing fits. Thyme also has antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off infections that may be causing the cough.
Benefits of Thyme Tea:
- Relaxes throat muscles
- Eases coughing fits
- Fights respiratory infections
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a powerful remedy for coughs due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can help soothe a sore throat, reduce coughing, and even alleviate nausea that sometimes accompanies colds or respiratory infections. Ginger’s warming effects also promote better circulation, aiding in faster recovery.
Benefits of Ginger Tea:
- Reduces throat inflammation
- Calms coughing
- Eases nausea
Wild Cherry Bark Tea
Wild cherry bark tea has long been used as a natural remedy for coughs, particularly dry, irritating coughs. The bark contains compounds that help suppress cough reflexes, making it especially helpful when you have a persistent cough that disrupts your sleep. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the throat.
Benefits of Wild Cherry Bark Tea:
- Suppresses persistent coughs
- Soothes throat irritation
- Reduces inflammation
Mullein Tea
Mullein tea is often used as a remedy for respiratory issues, including coughs and congestion. It helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and makes it easier to expel mucus, which can be beneficial if you have a productive cough. Mullein is also gentle on the throat, making it a great option for calming coughs.
Benefits of Mullein Tea:
- Reduces respiratory inflammation
- Eases mucus expulsion
- Soothes the throat
Elderberry Tea
Elderberry tea is rich in antioxidants and has strong antiviral properties, making it an excellent choice for fighting colds and flu symptoms, including coughs. Elderberries can help reduce the severity and duration of a cough by supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract.
Benefits of Elderberry Tea:
- Boosts immune system
- Reduces the duration of a cough
- Fights off viral infections
Eucalyptus Tea
Eucalyptus tea is another popular remedy for coughs and respiratory issues. It contains eucalyptol, which acts as a natural decongestant and expectorant, helping to break down mucus and clear the airways. Drinking eucalyptus tea can also reduce throat inflammation and provide relief from coughing fits.
Benefits of Eucalyptus Tea:
- Acts as a natural decongestant
- Eases breathing
- Reduces coughing fits
Any Tea With Honey
Adding honey to any type of tea can enhance its healing properties. Honey is a natural cough suppressant and throat soother, making it particularly beneficial when dealing with a sore throat and cough. Its antibacterial and antiviral properties can help fight off infections and speed up recovery.
Benefits of Honey in Tea:
- Soothes sore throat
- Acts as a natural cough suppressant
- Supports immune health
Conclusion
When you have a cough, drinking the right type of tea can provide much-needed relief and support your body’s healing process. From soothing throat irritation to reducing inflammation and boosting your immune system, these 12 healing teas offer a natural and effective way to alleviate coughs and other cold symptoms. Whether you opt for licorice root tea, chamomile tea, or any tea with honey, you’ll find comfort in every sip as you help your body recover naturally.