Tea is a great natural remedy for a multitude of health issues. Ginger is notably good for an upset stomach, chamomile can put you off to sleep, and turmeric is ideal for anti-inflammatory purposes. This winter, if you’re feeling under the weather, consider these four tea remedies recommended by health experts to soothe and heal your sore throat before you take a trip to the doctor.
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Ginger Honey
Ginger tea with some added honey is the founder of Steeped Content, Mackenzie Bailey’s go-to choice for a sore throat. She explains that ginger and honey together are excellent for illness as, “Ginger can improve antioxidant capacity, enhance immune function, and reduce your body’s inflammatory response,” which is incredibly useful for a sore throat. She explains that while honey doesn’t fight against viruses, it does have antibacterial properties which can help boost your immune system.
For preparation, Bailey suggests boiling fresh ginger for thirty minutes and then adding honey to your liking.
Elderberry
Elderberry tea should be next in your lineup, according to health and wellness coach Whitney Ross, as it can reduce flu symptoms as well as cut down on the duration of illness. Ross explains that elderberries are packed with Vitamin C and other antioxidants which your body needs while combating illness. This tea has also been known to ease inflammation as well, which is ideal for a raw, sore throat.
Peppermint Honey
While looking for a tea to drink before bed, it’s important to ensure that the drink you choose is caffeine-free. Nutritionist Lisa Richards recommends chamomile, ginger or peppermint, although she notes that peppermint is the ideal choice for a sore throat. She says, “Whichever tea you choose, adding honey to the cup may be the best approach to soothing a sore throat in the evenings. Honey is categorized as a demulcent because it coats the throat, preventing further irritation and cough.”
Apple Kuzu Beverage
If you’re looking for a drink that’s a little more interesting than your traditional tea, consider trying an apple kuzu beverage. Celine Beitchman, Director of Nutrition at the Institute of Culinary Education explains, “Though not a tea by name, this drink is thick enough that it not only brings in some moisture to what might be a dry, sore area, but that moisture can rest on the tissue longer since it’s more like pudding than a watery tea.”
The recipe Beitchman recommends from the Institute of Culinary Education is, “1 cup apple juice, 4 teaspoons kuzu, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. In a small pot, combine ingredients and stir well to combine. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly and cook until mixture thickens. Serve hot or cold.”
With cold and flu season right around the corner, now is the perfect time to begin preparing your arsenal of natural remedies. As soon as you feel that tickle, you’ll know which tea to turn to in easing your sore throat and sending you right off to sleep.
