For those prone to allergies during the monsoon season, incorporating these soothing herbal teas into your routine can provide effective relief.
Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re unwell, as it helps maintain throat moisture, reducing pain and irritation. Warm liquids like tea are particularly soothing for a scratchy throat. Moreover, certain teas boast health benefits beyond hydration, aiding in disease prevention. In this article, Dr. Archana Batra, a Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator & Physiotherapist, highlights five teas renowned for their allergy-fighting properties during the monsoon season, making them a must-try for those prone to seasonal allergies.
Homemade sore throat teas infused with herbs naturally reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Ingredients such as ginger or licorice root, known for their medicinal properties, can provide relief during allergy season. Chamomile tea, for instance, contains tryptophan, an amino acid that induces relaxation and aids in sleep, making it an excellent pre-bedtime beverage for those struggling with insomnia.
Allergy Relief Herbal Teas
Below are several herbal teas ideal for calming your sore throat during the height of allergy season.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile stands out as one of the most effective herbs to consume when experiencing anxiety. Research shows it can alleviate symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and stress. Moreover, its antibacterial properties are beneficial for conditions like chest congestion or colds. By combating infections, it helps alleviate pain. For relief, brew chamomile tea and consume it at least twice daily.
Turmeric Tea
Turmeric is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to its active component, curcumin. This compound boasts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties, which can support immune function. Consuming turmeric tea harnesses these anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially alleviating the irritation and swelling associated with allergic rhinitis.
Licorice Tea
Licorice root tea offers antiviral and antimicrobial properties, aiding in the combat against illnesses responsible for sore throats. With its mild sweetness, licorice tea provides not only medicinal benefits but also a pleasant taste. However, caution is advised as excessive consumption of licorice tea may pose risks, hence consulting a doctor before use is advisable.
Ginger Tea
Ginger root contains gingerols and shogaols, compounds renowned for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can effectively soothe a sore throat. Additionally, ginger exhibits soothing properties and may aid in alleviating symptoms of colds or flu. Its antimicrobial properties contribute to fighting viral infections associated with sore throats.
Green Tea
Green tea boasts polyphenols, potent antioxidant compounds that bolster your immune system’s defense against cold and flu viruses. Alongside its anti-inflammatory properties, green tea may also provide relief from sore throat discomfort. These benefits stem from epigallocatechin-3-gallate, a compound that diminishes inflammatory proteins in the body.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea contains menthol, renowned for its decongestant and soothing properties, making it particularly effective before bedtime. Additionally, it aids digestion. The antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory attributes of peppermint tea contribute to alleviating cold symptoms. Furthermore, its ‘dyspeptic’ properties can mitigate nausea, indigestion, and heartburn.