Health | April 06, 2023 | C. Thompson

6 Best Teas for a Sore Throat

As allergy season approaches, many of us experience throat irritation, dryness, or soreness. A sore throat can make it difficult to talk, swallow, or even breathe comfortably. While there are many remedies for soothing throat discomfort, drinking tea is one of the most natural and effective ways to provide relief.

Certain teas contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce throat irritation while also offering hydration and warmth to ease discomfort. Whether you're dealing with seasonal allergies, a cold, or general throat irritation, here are the best teas for sore throat relief.

ginger tea infused with lemon in a wide white cup for sore throat relief

1. Ginger tea

Ginger tea is a powerful anti-inflammatory tea that can help soothe a sore throat while also offering relief from congestion. In fact, ginger is a root that contains antioxidants and natural antihistamines, which makes one of the best soothing teas for throat discomfort caused by allergies.

Ginger Tea Recipe for a Sore Throat:

Grate fresh ginger root and steep it in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
Add honey and lemon for extra throat-soothing benefits.
Sip warm to help ease throat inflammation and irritation.

licorice root tea in a glass teacup with spoon for allergies and sore throat relief

2. Licorice root tea

Licorice root tea is a traditional sore throat remedy due to its key compound, glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory and throat-coating properties. This tea helps soothe irritation, reduce swelling, and protect the throat lining.

Why Licorice Root Tea Helps with Sore Throat:

Acts as a natural throat-coating tea, providing instant relief.
Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that ease irritation.
Has mild antiviral properties, which may help if your sore throat is caused by an infection.

Note: Licorice root may interact with certain medications, so consult a healthcare professional before consuming it regularly.

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3. Matcha green tea

You may be wondering: Is matcha good for a sore throat? The answer is yes! Matcha for sore throat relief is an excellent choice because it is packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and L-theanine, which supports the immune system.

Since matcha is made by grinding whole green tea leaves into powder, it retains higher concentrations of catechins and polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation and combat bacteria in the throat.

How to Prepare Matcha for Sore Throat Relief:

Sift 1 teaspoon of matcha powder into a bowl.
Add hot water (not boiling) and whisk until frothy.
Sweeten with honey to enhance its soothing effects.

If you're wondering, "Is matcha tea good for sore throat?"—yes, especially when paired with honey and warm water for added relief.

gyokuro-health-benefit-healthy-benefits-shade-grown-green-tea-cup-allergies-sore-throat-relief

4. Sencha green tea

Sencha is another soothing tea for throat discomfort, commonly enjoyed in Japan. Moreover, sencha green tea contains catechins, known for their antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce throat swelling and irritation.

Why Sencha Helps with a Sore Throat:

Catechins in sencha may help fight infections that cause throat irritation.
It provides hydration and warmth, promoting throat relaxation.
Its mild grassy-sweet taste makes it easy to drink.

How to Brew Sencha for Throat Soothing:

Use hot water (about 175°F or 80°C) to avoid bitterness.
Steep 1 teaspoon of sencha leaves for 1–2 minutes.

If desired, add a slice of lemon or honey for extra throat comfort.

chamomile-tea-in-white-tea-cup-allergies-sore-throat-relief

5. Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is a well-known herbal tea for sore throat relief, thanks to its calming and anti-inflammatory effects. It reduces throat irritation, promotes relaxation, and may help with sleep if discomfort is keeping you awake.

Why Chamomile is One of the Best Soothing Teas for Throat:

Contains natural antihistamines that ease allergy-related throat discomfort.
Helps reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat.
Offers a mild floral taste that pairs well with honey.

How to Brew Chamomile Tea for Throat Relief:

Steep dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 minutes.
Add honey to enhance its natural soothing properties

thyme-tea-white-tea-cup-allergies-sore-throat-relief

6. Thyme tea

Thyme tea is another excellent anti-inflammatory tea that helps with sore throat relief. In fact, it contains thymol and carvacrol, both of which have powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. As a result, thyme tea can help ease throat swelling and irritation while also providing additional immune support.

Why Thyme Tea Helps with a Sore Throat:

Helps reduce throat inflammation caused by bacteria or allergens.
Offers natural antiseptic benefits, preventing further irritation.
Has a pleasant, slightly minty flavor that’s soothing to sip.

How to Make Thyme Tea for a Sore Throat:

Steep fresh or dried thyme in hot water for 5 minutes.
Strain and add honey for extra throat-soothing benefits.

Which Tea is Best for Your Sore Throat?

When choosing the best tea for sore throat relief, consider the cause of your discomfort:

For allergy-related sore throats → Ginger tea, chamomile tea
For inflammation & irritation → Matcha green tea, sencha green tea
For antibacterial & immune support → Licorice root tea, thyme tea

Many are surpised that matcha tea good for sore throat. Matcha’s antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and immune-boosting catechins make it a great choice. Try it with honey and warm water for extra relief.

Looking for high-quality matcha or soothing green teas? Browse our collection of green teas and matcha to find the best tea for your needs.