Herbal Tea for cold and flu
When it comes to easing the effect of colds and flu’s herbal teas have been used for centuries. It is never pleasant to be suffering from a cold or flu but if you are these teas are something you may want to try and can help support our bodies during the infection. Let’s focus on how herbal teas can help us with the symptoms of cold and flu.
Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea often pops up on our list, but that’s because it has many uses and taste refreshingly good. Peppermint contains menthol (used in cough medicines and ointments) that helps to ease your congestion and respiratory problems. Peppermint also has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties as well which are all handy for fighting off colds and flu. It can also soothe muscle aches, alleviate coughs (being antispasmodic) and opens nasal passageways.
Ginger Tea
The strong anti-inflammatory effects of ginger can help soothe a sore throat by relieving inflammation. Ginger tea can help loosening up phlegm because it is a natural expectorant that breaks down and removes mucus. Rich in antioxidant, ginger is also known to boost the immune system as well, a natural antibiotic and antiviral itself.
Chamomile Tea
Yes, it’s this tea again, Chamomile tea contains powerful anti-inflammatory agents which could ease symptoms and lessens the creation of mucus. Since it as mild sedatives, Chamomile has a relaxing effect on the mind and body. Promoting sleep and reducing stress.
Elderberry
The berries are packed with flavonoids and antioxidants that can boost immune health. Studies show that elderberry supplementation can help decrease the severity of cold symptoms and lessen their duration. It has a potent direct antiviral effect against the flu virus
Green Tea
Green tea has been shown to have anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and high antioxidant properties. One antioxidant found in green teas is called 'quercetin'. Studies shows that this antioxidant acts as an antiviral agent which hinders the viral replication of many respiratory viruses, including the cold and influenza virus.
