Which teas are most effective for congestion relief. How do different types of tea benefit respiratory health. What home remedies can alleviate stuffy nose symptoms. Why is hydration crucial when fighting a cold. How does honey enhance the effectiveness of herbal teas for colds.

Understanding the Power of Tea for Cold Relief

When battling a stuffy nose and congestion, turning to a warm cup of tea can provide much-needed relief. While research hasn’t definitively proven that any single tea can cure the common cold, numerous studies suggest that certain herbal ingredients may alleviate respiratory infection symptoms. Let’s explore the various types of tea and their potential benefits for congestion relief.

The Importance of Hydration During a Cold

Why is staying hydrated crucial when fighting a cold? Proper hydration helps thin mucus, making it easier to expel and relieving congestion. It also supports your immune system’s efforts to combat the infection. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water or other non-caffeinated fluids daily while recovering from a cold.

Lemon Tea: A Citrusy Boost for Your Immune System

Lemon tea has long been a popular home remedy for sore throats and congestion. While much of the evidence supporting its efficacy is anecdotal, lemons are rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient for your body when fighting off a cold or virus.

The Vitamin C Connection

How does vitamin C support your immune system during a cold? This powerful antioxidant helps stimulate the production and function of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. Additionally, vitamin C may help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.

Elderberry Tea: Nature’s Antiviral Powerhouse

Elderberry, a dark purple berry native to Europe, has gained popularity as a natural remedy for colds and flu. Research supports its use in reducing the duration of flu symptoms, though specific studies on elderberry tea for colds are limited.

The Science Behind Elderberry’s Effectiveness

What makes elderberry effective against respiratory infections? Black elder, the most common form of elderberry, possesses antiviral and antimicrobial properties. These properties may help inhibit the replication of viruses and strengthen the immune system’s response to infections.

Echinacea Tea: Boosting Immune Function

Echinacea, derived from the purple coneflower plant, is a popular herb believed to stimulate immune activity and shorten the duration of bacterial and viral infections. While research on its effectiveness is mixed, some studies suggest promising results.

Echinacea’s Potential Benefits

How might echinacea tea help with colds? A small study from 2000 indicated that drinking echinacea tea could reduce the duration of upper respiratory conditions and flu symptoms. However, more research is needed to conclusively establish its efficacy in treating colds.

Green Tea: Antioxidant-Rich Immune Support

Green tea is renowned worldwide for its numerous health benefits, particularly its high antioxidant content. While its direct impact on colds requires further research, green tea’s antioxidants may provide valuable immune support.

The Role of Antioxidants in Fighting Colds

How do antioxidants in green tea support your body during a cold? Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can be produced in higher quantities during infections. This protection may help your body better cope with the stress of fighting off a cold.

Herbal Teas: Soothing Comfort for Cold Symptoms

Herbal teas, made from dried fruits, spices, or herbs, offer a caffeine-free option for hydration and comfort during a cold. Popular choices include chamomile and peppermint tea, known for their soothing properties.

The Benefits of Chamomile and Peppermint

Why are chamomile and peppermint teas favored by those recovering from colds? Chamomile has mild sedative effects that can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which is crucial for recovery. Peppermint, on the other hand, contains menthol, which can help clear nasal passages and ease breathing.

Honey: Nature’s Cough Suppressant

Adding honey to your favorite herbal tea can enhance its effectiveness in alleviating cold symptoms. Research has shown that honey is an effective cough suppressant, particularly for children over the age of one.

The Science-Backed Benefits of Honey

How does honey help suppress coughs? Honey’s thick consistency coats the throat, providing a soothing effect that can reduce irritation and the urge to cough. Its antimicrobial properties may also help fight off the underlying infection causing the cough.

Additional Home Remedies for Congestion Relief

While tea can be a valuable ally in your fight against congestion, there are several other home remedies you can try to alleviate your symptoms.

Steam Inhalation

How can steam inhalation help relieve congestion? Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or taking a hot shower can help moisturize your nasal passages, thin mucus, and make breathing easier. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to the water may enhance the decongestant effect.

Saline Nasal Rinse

Why is a saline nasal rinse effective for congestion? Rinsing your nasal passages with a saltwater solution can help flush out excess mucus, allergens, and irritants, providing relief from congestion and promoting faster healing.

Elevated Sleeping Position

How does sleeping with your head elevated help with congestion? Propping up your head with an extra pillow can help prevent mucus from pooling in your sinuses, reducing congestion and making breathing easier during sleep.

The Role of Zinc in Cold Recovery

While not a tea, zinc supplements have shown promise in reducing the duration of colds. Understanding how zinc works can help you make informed decisions about incorporating it into your cold-fighting regimen.

Zinc’s Mechanism of Action

How does zinc help fight colds? Zinc is believed to interfere with the replication of rhinoviruses, the most common cause of colds. It may also help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages, alleviating congestion and other cold symptoms.

Proper Usage and Precautions

What should you know before taking zinc for a cold? While zinc may be beneficial, it’s important to follow dosage recommendations and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. Excessive zinc intake can lead to side effects and interfere with the absorption of other essential minerals.

In conclusion, while no single tea or remedy can cure the common cold, a combination of hydration, herbal teas, and complementary home remedies can provide significant relief from congestion and other cold symptoms. By understanding the potential benefits of different teas and natural remedies, you can create a personalized approach to managing your cold symptoms and supporting your body’s healing process.

Remember to listen to your body, stay well-hydrated, and consult with a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen. With the right combination of rest, hydration, and natural remedies, you can navigate through your cold more comfortably and potentially shorten its duration.

Types of Tea, Benefits, and Efficacy

When you’re fighting a cold, it’s essential to load up on caffeine-free liquids that keep you hydrated. A smart choice is a cup of hot tea, as it can soothe a sore throat and break up congestion. Plus, it’s positively comforting to sip a hot beverage when you’re under the weather.

Research hasn’t yet established that any one tea can help clear up the common cold. However, plenty of evidence suggests that some herbal tea ingredients may ease respiratory infection symptoms. This article explores the research on several types of teas you may want to try as a home remedy for the common cold.

Drinking lemon tea, or squeezing lemon into another kind of herbal tea, is a home remedy that people have been using for decades. Despite its popularity, most of the evidence supporting the use of lemon tea for sore throats is anecdotal.

That said, lemons are a citrus fruit, meaning they contain vitamin C. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for your body when you’re fighting a cold or virus.

Elderberry is a dark purple berry native to Europe. Many people believe that elderberry extract can help you recover more quickly from infections like flu and the common cold. Some research does support this use of elderberry.

The most common form of elderberry, black elder, has been found to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.Porter RS, et al. (2017). A review of the antiviral properties of black elder (Sambucus nigra L.) products. DOI:
10.1002/ptr.5782 Several studies have shown that elderberry is effective in reducing the duration of the flu, but there aren’t specific studies into the use of elderberry tea to treat colds.

Echinacea is a popular herb that comes from a plant called the purple coneflower. There’s a lot of conflicting research about the effect of echinacea tea on colds. Some studies suggest that echinacea stimulates immune activity to shorten bacterial infections and viruses. Like green tea, echinacea is high in antioxidants.

A small study from 2000 indicated that drinking echinacea tea could reduce the duration of upper respiratory conditions as well as the flu.Lindenmuth GF, et al. (2000). The efficacy of echinacea compound herbal tea preparation on the severity and duration of upper respiratory and flu symptoms: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. DOI:
10.1089/10755530050120691 But at least one review points out that the health benefits of echinacea have yet to be proven.Barrett B. (2004). Medicinal properties of echinacea: A clinical review. DOI:
10.1078/094471103321648692

Green tea is popular all over the world for its many purported health benefits. A review of the medical literature on green tea points out its high antioxidant content.Chacko SM, et al. (2010). Beneficial effects of green tea: A literature review. DOI:
10.1186/1749-8546-5-13 This antioxidant activity helps support your body when it’s under attack by environmental factors or by an intruding infection. Researchers have concluded that green tea provides immune support and helps encourage a healthy metabolism, too.

As far as green tea and colds, more research is needed. While green tea might give you an energy boost while your body is fighting a cold, we don’t know enough to say whether or not it will shorten your cold’s duration.

Herbal teas can be made out of dried fruits, spices, or herbs. Herbal teas are naturally decaffeinated, so they won’t dehydrate you. They often carry a sweet flavor and soothing scent. They taste especially good with a natural sweetener, like honey. Chamomile tea and peppermint tea have long been a favorite of people recovering from the common cold. Keep in mind that chamomile tea is not recommended if you’re pregnant.

Honey can help suppress a cough when you have the common cold. In fact, honey is now recommended as a cough suppressant treatment for children over the age of 1.Goldman R, et al. (2011). Treating cough and cold: Guidance for caregivers of children and youth. DOI:
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23115499 This is due to a small study that showed honey was superior to a placebo for children with acute upper respiratory infections.Paul IM, et al. (2007). Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. DOI:
10.1001/archpedi.161.12.1140

Stirring a bit of honey into your favorite herbal tea may loosen phlegm, soothe pain and soreness, and suppress a cough.

There are plenty of other home remedies you can try while you recover from a cold or a sore throat.

• Staying hydrated is essential for your health, even when you’re not fighting a cold. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water or other non-caffeinated fluids while you rest and recover from the common cold.
• Zinc supplements may work to reduce the amount of time you’re sick, especially if you can take them within 24 hours of your symptoms appearing.Goldman R, et al. (2011). Treating cough and cold: Guidance for caregivers of children and youth. DOI:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23115499
• Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may help reduce headache, aching joints, and fever symptoms from a cold.
• Keep cough drops or throat lozenges handy. These help because they encourage your mouth to make saliva, which keeps your throat moist and eases soreness.

It can take some time for a cold to clear up. Most cold are caused by viruses, which means that there’s not much your doctor can offer you besides over-the-counter medication for symptom relief.

However, if your cold symptoms persist for more than 3 weeks, or if you notice your symptoms becoming more severe after 10 days, plan to see your doctor.

A cold that goes on for some time can be an indication of a bacterial infection that needs medical treatment.

Symptoms to look for include:

• pressure or pain around your forehead
• colored nasal discharge (brown, green, or blood-tinged)
• fever of 101 degrees or higher that persists for more than 24 hours
• sweating, shaking, or chills
• difficulty swallowing
• a deep, barking cough
• difficulty breathing

No scientific research points to one type of tea to drink when you have a cold. But in general, drinking herbal tea when you’re not feeling well is a good idea.

Staying hydrated with lots of decaffeinated drinks can help you recover. Just inhaling the steam from a warm beverage in your hand might help loosen congestion, and help you feel more rested.

Types of Tea, Benefits, and Efficacy

When you’re fighting a cold, it’s essential to load up on caffeine-free liquids that keep you hydrated. A smart choice is a cup of hot tea, as it can soothe a sore throat and break up congestion. Plus, it’s positively comforting to sip a hot beverage when you’re under the weather.

Research hasn’t yet established that any one tea can help clear up the common cold. However, plenty of evidence suggests that some herbal tea ingredients may ease respiratory infection symptoms. This article explores the research on several types of teas you may want to try as a home remedy for the common cold.

Drinking lemon tea, or squeezing lemon into another kind of herbal tea, is a home remedy that people have been using for decades. Despite its popularity, most of the evidence supporting the use of lemon tea for sore throats is anecdotal.

That said, lemons are a citrus fruit, meaning they contain vitamin C. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for your body when you’re fighting a cold or virus.

Elderberry is a dark purple berry native to Europe. Many people believe that elderberry extract can help you recover more quickly from infections like flu and the common cold. Some research does support this use of elderberry.

The most common form of elderberry, black elder, has been found to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.Porter RS, et al. (2017). A review of the antiviral properties of black elder (Sambucus nigra L.) products. DOI:
10.1002/ptr.5782 Several studies have shown that elderberry is effective in reducing the duration of the flu, but there aren’t specific studies into the use of elderberry tea to treat colds.

Echinacea is a popular herb that comes from a plant called the purple coneflower. There’s a lot of conflicting research about the effect of echinacea tea on colds. Some studies suggest that echinacea stimulates immune activity to shorten bacterial infections and viruses. Like green tea, echinacea is high in antioxidants.

A small study from 2000 indicated that drinking echinacea tea could reduce the duration of upper respiratory conditions as well as the flu.Lindenmuth GF, et al. (2000). The efficacy of echinacea compound herbal tea preparation on the severity and duration of upper respiratory and flu symptoms: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. DOI:
10.1089/10755530050120691 But at least one review points out that the health benefits of echinacea have yet to be proven.Barrett B. (2004). Medicinal properties of echinacea: A clinical review. DOI:
10.1078/094471103321648692

Green tea is popular all over the world for its many purported health benefits. A review of the medical literature on green tea points out its high antioxidant content. Chacko SM, et al. (2010). Beneficial effects of green tea: A literature review. DOI:
10.1186/1749-8546-5-13 This antioxidant activity helps support your body when it’s under attack by environmental factors or by an intruding infection. Researchers have concluded that green tea provides immune support and helps encourage a healthy metabolism, too.

As far as green tea and colds, more research is needed. While green tea might give you an energy boost while your body is fighting a cold, we don’t know enough to say whether or not it will shorten your cold’s duration.

Herbal teas can be made out of dried fruits, spices, or herbs. Herbal teas are naturally decaffeinated, so they won’t dehydrate you. They often carry a sweet flavor and soothing scent. They taste especially good with a natural sweetener, like honey. Chamomile tea and peppermint tea have long been a favorite of people recovering from the common cold. Keep in mind that chamomile tea is not recommended if you’re pregnant.

Honey can help suppress a cough when you have the common cold. In fact, honey is now recommended as a cough suppressant treatment for children over the age of 1.Goldman R, et al. (2011). Treating cough and cold: Guidance for caregivers of children and youth. DOI:
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23115499 This is due to a small study that showed honey was superior to a placebo for children with acute upper respiratory infections.Paul IM, et al. (2007). Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. DOI:
10.1001/archpedi.161.12.1140

Stirring a bit of honey into your favorite herbal tea may loosen phlegm, soothe pain and soreness, and suppress a cough.

There are plenty of other home remedies you can try while you recover from a cold or a sore throat.

• Staying hydrated is essential for your health, even when you’re not fighting a cold. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water or other non-caffeinated fluids while you rest and recover from the common cold.
• Zinc supplements may work to reduce the amount of time you’re sick, especially if you can take them within 24 hours of your symptoms appearing.Goldman R, et al. (2011). Treating cough and cold: Guidance for caregivers of children and youth. DOI:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23115499
• Over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may help reduce headache, aching joints, and fever symptoms from a cold.
• Keep cough drops or throat lozenges handy. These help because they encourage your mouth to make saliva, which keeps your throat moist and eases soreness.

It can take some time for a cold to clear up. Most cold are caused by viruses, which means that there’s not much your doctor can offer you besides over-the-counter medication for symptom relief.

However, if your cold symptoms persist for more than 3 weeks, or if you notice your symptoms becoming more severe after 10 days, plan to see your doctor.

A cold that goes on for some time can be an indication of a bacterial infection that needs medical treatment.

Symptoms to look for include:

• pressure or pain around your forehead
• colored nasal discharge (brown, green, or blood-tinged)
• fever of 101 degrees or higher that persists for more than 24 hours
• sweating, shaking, or chills
• difficulty swallowing
• a deep, barking cough
• difficulty breathing

No scientific research points to one type of tea to drink when you have a cold. But in general, drinking herbal tea when you’re not feeling well is a good idea.

Staying hydrated with lots of decaffeinated drinks can help you recover. Just inhaling the steam from a warm beverage in your hand might help loosen congestion, and help you feel more rested.

Herbal teas for nasal congestion: treated with folk remedies

You can cope with nasal congestion with the help of pharmacy drops, but you should not do this if you do not want chronic swelling of the turbinates with subsequent surgery. I know what I’m talking about, because I myself went through such an operation and watched ENT doctors scold their patients for being overly fond of drops.

Photo: Depositphotos.com. Author: PEPPERSMINT.

Most often, nasal congestion is caused not by accumulations of mucus in the sinuses, but by inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane. Medical drops temporarily relieve swelling, but are addictive. Over time, without the help of medicines, you will no longer be able to breathe freely.

But what to do if you can no longer tolerate stuffy nose? Herbal tea will come to the rescue – one of those that I will tell you about today.

Contents

• 1 Varieties
• 2 How to cook
• 3 Diet rules

Varieties

and helps clear nasal passages, although some herbal drinks are much more effective.

According to the University of Maryland, a tea brewed with one or more herbs is good for sinus congestion, for example:

• eucalyptus,
• mint,
• sage,
• thyme,
• basil,
• blackberry leaves,
• shandra (horsemint),
• rosemary,
• chamomile.

Health benefits of rosemary tea.

Marshmallow (marshmallow), echinacea purpurea and licorice root can also be a good help in getting rid of swelling of the nasal mucosa (read more about the beneficial and harmful properties of licorice root). But the use of this herbal raw material must be agreed with the attending physician, as there is a possibility of allergies and negative interactions with certain medications.

1. One of the best folk remedies for nasal congestion is horseradish. It contains sulfur-containing compounds that kill germs and open the sinuses.
2. No less effective is stinging nettle, rich in natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory compounds, including quercetin.
3. Thyme tea, due to the presence of thymol, anesthetizes and soothes the mucous membrane of the sinuses. It is better to drink it slowly, in small sips, inhaling the steam rising from the cup – this will help the outflow of mucus and fight bacteria.

In any herbal tea that you intend to use to combat nasal congestion, you can and should add natural honey and fresh lemon slices. With them, the drink will become tastier and more effective. And for an extra serving of quercetin, use ground cayenne pepper (one pinch is enough).

In general, spices and seasonings do a good job of dealing with various symptoms of colds and flu, including nasal congestion. Proven effectiveness:

• black cumin seeds,
• fenugreek seeds,
• mustard seeds,
• ground cinnamon,
• ginger (ground or fresh),
• cumin (jeera).

All of the ingredients listed can be added to your favorite herbal tea or brewed in a separate bowl.

How to prepare

There are general rules for brewing herbal tea. As a rule, take 2 tsp. dried herb or 1/4 cup fresh to 1 cup boiling water, leave for five to ten minutes, strain and drink. For medicinal purposes, herbal tea for nasal congestion should be consumed at least 3 times a day.

To prepare ginger tea, use a small piece of ginger root the size of a finger knuckle or 1 tsp. crushed dried root.

Diet rules

To make the herbal drink work faster, limit the mucus that interferes with the outflow of mucus:

• dairy products;
• cereals;
• sugar;
• potatoes and other starchy roots.

At the same time, I advise you to introduce into the diet foods that have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and antibacterial properties: pineapple, sources of omega-3 fatty acids (fish, nuts, eggs, fish oil, flaxseed and linseed oil), garlic and apple cider vinegar.

16 essential oils that help with colds and nasal congestion. How to use them most effectively?

The common cold is one of the most unpleasant conditions of the body. Coughing, sneezing, stuffy nose – and you’re done, it’s impossible to concentrate on anything and find at least some comfortable position. And so two weeks. Familiar? Still would. Autumn, winter and spring are the time of inevitable colds. There are ways to prevent and prevent a cold, but even the utmost caution does not always protect against infection.

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In addition to a healthy lifestyle, good sleep and proper nutrition, essential oils help prevent or speed up recovery from colds. Let’s figure out which oils are best to help fight a cold and how do they work?

Content of article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Studies have shown that essential oils can relieve symptoms, fight viruses effectively, and make you feel better during colds.

How to use essential oils?

The most common use is through a diffuser. Dispersed in the air, essential oil can reduce the amount of viral particles in the air and work as a natural antiseptic.

If you don’t have a diffuser and don’t want to buy it, it’s not a problem. You can simply inhale the essential oil by sniffing the bottle with it, or add a couple of drops to a cotton pad. This method will help clear the nasal passages, alleviate nasal congestion. And some oils (such as lavender oil) will help you sleep better and speed up the recovery process. You can also add a couple of drops of oil to a warm bath or a container of hot water and breathe in the steam.

Important to know

Essential oils can also be applied directly to the skin, but must be diluted with a few drops of base oil (avocado, coconut or olive). Remember, essential oils are highly concentrated! In no case do not apply them undiluted to the skin and do not take them inside!

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Also, some oils may interact with prescription drugs or supplements, so be sure to check with your doctor before using. If you plan to apply oils to your skin but have ever had an allergic or dermatological reaction, consult a dermatologist. Essential oils can cause irritation in people with sensitive skin. If you have allergies, you should also be careful.

Now that you’re armed with the information you need, here are the top oils for relieving colds, sore throats, coughs, fevers, and more.

Top essential oils for colds

Chamomile oil

A 2010 study found that inhaling chamomile essential oil vapor helps relieve symptoms of a cold. At the very least, such a procedure will have an effect similar to that of a cup of warm chamomile tea.

Tea tree oil

This oil is often found in skin and hair cosmetics, but it also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Inhale it with steam or apply to the skin (diluted!).

Eucalyptus oil

Eucalyptus, like tea tree, has strong antiviral properties. Choose which flavor you like best.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint drops are good for coughs and sore throats, right? Inhaling peppermint oil helps soothe an irritated throat, relieve nasal congestion, and make breathing easier.

Lavender oil

A cold is not only a runny nose, cough and watery eyes, but also fatigue and insomnia that are caused by breathing problems. Lavender oil helps to relax, improves sleep, relieves nasal congestion.

Ginger root oil

Hot tea with lemon, honey and ginger is a classic in the fight against cold symptoms. Ginger essential oil also works great, as it has antiviral activity and relieves cold symptoms.

Rosemary oil

Rosemary is good for more than just seasoning. The essential oil from this plant facilitates breathing, reduces nasal congestion and strengthens the immune system.

Basil oil

Basil oil has antispasmodic properties, helps to relax the respiratory system, relieves nasal congestion and even slightly reduces fever.

Cedarwood oil

Cedar essential oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties. It loosens mucus and aids in its expulsion, and, like lavender oil, it is soothing and helps you sleep better.

Frankincense oil

This oil has anti-inflammatory properties and relieves cough.

Lemon oil

Lemon essential oil is excellent for sinus drainage, antimicrobial action and easier breathing.

Orange oil

Orange is rich in vitamin C, its essential oil helps with colds and flu. Citrus oils in general have a beneficial effect on the immune system.

Oregano oil

This oil also has powerful antiviral activity.

Sandalwood oil

Sandalwood is used as an antibacterial, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory agent. It also helps calm the nervous system and relax.

Thyme oil

Thyme itself is a powerful infection-fighting agent, not only against viruses, but also bacteria and fungi.