A cold can be uncomfortable and annoying. The good news is that certain types of tea can help relieve cold symptoms. In this blog, we discuss the best teas to drink to alleviate the discomfort of a cold and help you feel better faster.

Why drink tea when you have a cold?

Drinking tea during a cold offers several benefits that can help ease symptoms and promote recovery. Below, we discuss the main reasons why tea is an excellent choice when you’re suffering from a cold.

• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial when you have a cold. Tea helps keep the body hydrated, which is essential for fighting infections and loosening mucus in the airways.
• Antioxidants: Many teas, such as green tea and herbal teas, contain antioxidants that strengthen the immune system. These antioxidants help fight free radicals and support the body in defending against pathogens.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Teas like ginger, chamomile, and turmeric tea have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. These can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat and airways, contributing to faster recovery.
• Soothing effects: Warm tea can have a soothing effect on an irritated throat. Honey and lemon, often added to tea, enhance this effect by providing extra soothing and vitamin C.
• Menthol and menthol-like substances: Teas such as peppermint tea contain menthol, a natural decongestant that helps open the airways and reduce nasal congestion.
• Calming effect: Herbal teas like chamomile and lavender tea have a calming effect, which can help promote good sleep, essential for recovery from a cold.

1. Ginger tea

Ginger is known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it an excellent choice when you have a cold. Ginger tea can help soothe the throat, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system, which is crucial for recovery.

Benefits of ginger tea for a cold:

• Anti-inflammatory: Ginger contains bioactive compounds like gingerol that can effectively reduce inflammation. This helps relieve sore throats and swelling in the airways.
• Antiviral: Ginger’s antiviral properties can help combat the virus that causes colds, reducing the duration and severity of symptoms.
• Immune support: Ginger contains antioxidants that boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infections.
• Digestive aid: Ginger tea can also help with digestive issues that sometimes accompany colds, such as nausea and bloating.

2. Chamomile tea

Chamomile is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal choice to relieve cold symptoms. Chamomile tea can help soothe the throat, promote sleep, and calm the body, which is essential for recovery.

Benefits of chamomile tea for a cold:

• Soothes the throat: Chamomile contains natural substances that can reduce inflammation and soothe throat pain, making it easier to swallow and relieving discomfort.
• Anti-inflammatory: Chamomile’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and irritation in the airways, improving breathing.
• Promotes sleep: Good sleep is crucial for recovery during a cold. Chamomile tea is known for its calming effect, which can help promote deeper, more restorative sleep.
• Relaxation: Chamomile has a calming effect on both the body and mind, which can help reduce the stress and anxiety often associated with illness.

How to make chamomile tea:

• Boil water: Bring a cup of water to a boil.
• Add chamomile: Add a chamomile tea bag or a tablespoon of dried chamomile flowers to the boiling water.
• Steep: Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes for optimal flavor and health benefits.
• Strain the tea: Remove the tea bag or strain the dried flowers.
• Add flavor: Add honey for extra flavor and soothing properties.

3. Peppermint tea

Peppermint tea is a popular choice for colds due to its refreshing and decongestant properties. The menthol in peppermint provides natural relief for respiratory issues and helps open the airways, making it an effective remedy for cold symptoms.

Benefits of peppermint tea for a cold:

• Relieves congestion: Menthol, the active ingredient in peppermint, acts as a decongestant. It helps calm the mucous membranes and opens the airways, making breathing easier.
• Soothes the throat: Peppermint tea can help soothe and refresh an irritated throat, which is especially useful for sore throats often associated with colds.
• Aids digestion: In addition to respiratory benefits, peppermint tea can also help with digestive problems like bloating and indigestion, which sometimes occur during illness.
• Antibacterial properties: Peppermint has natural antibacterial properties that can help fight pathogens and strengthen the immune system.

How to make peppermint tea:

• Boil water: Bring a cup of water to a boil.
• Add peppermint: Add a handful of fresh peppermint leaves or a peppermint tea bag to the boiling water.
• Steep: Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes for full flavor and maximum health benefits.
• Strain the tea: Remove the leaves or tea bag.
• Add flavor: Optionally, add honey or lemon for extra flavor and health benefits.

Important note: While tea is not a miracle cure, it can be a helpful support for relieving cold symptoms.