Drinking herbal tea for the flu not only offers the medicinal effects of the herbs included but also the soothing relief provided by enjoying a cup of the steaming brew. If you would like to use herbal teas to treat the flu, contact your health practitioner first to be sure those herbs are the right choice for your illness and so you avoid any side effects.
Making Herbal Tea
To make herbal tea, place the prescribed quantity of dried herbs in a pot of water and boil for 5 minutes. Reduce the heat and allow the tea to simmer for another 10 to 20 minutes or longer, depending on what your practitioner advises. Remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool. Strain the herbs and drink the tea in portions as prescribed. Store leftover tea in the refrigerator for future use. Most herbal teas can be consumed either cold or hot. Use honey or stevia to sweeten, if needed. If you prefer your tea hot, warm the leftover tea on a low light to the desired temperature. Do not reboil leftover tea.
Chrysanthemum Tea
In China, chrysanthemum tea is used to cleanse the body of toxins built up in the blood. The tea not only provides purification for the blood but also brings calm and relaxation for the mind. Chrysanthemum tea may help you sleep more easily, relieving insomnia. Additionally, the tea may have antibiotic properties and relieve secondary infections resulting from the flu, such as pneumonia, according to "Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica." Chrysanthemum flowers may create side effects or allergic reactions in certain sensitive people. If you experience any unusual symptoms, stop using it and contact your health practitioner.
Mullein Tea
Mullein is a well-known herb used for a variety of ailments related to the flu, including sore throats, chest congestion and earache. The dried herb makes a soothing tea that acts to loosen tightness in the chest and relieve congestion. It is especially helpful when used as an expectorant for those who experience coughing and other respiratory symptoms of the flu.
Cayenne Pepper and Honey
Cayenne pepper can be used to break up chest congestion during flu and relieve sinus pressure and stuffiness. Cayenne possesses both antiviral and antiseptic properties. Make a tea with cayenne pepper by placing a tiny pinch in a cup of boiling water. Add lemon juice and honey to taste and sip as needed. Increase the amount of cayenne pepper as you become used to its effects. It may feel quite hot on your palate and in your throat at first, but it is an excellent tonic for sore throats.
References
- City University of New York at Brooklyn: Chinese Herbs
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- Department of Horticultural Science College of Agriculture & Life Sciences North Carolina State University: Edible Flowers
- "Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica"; Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble; 2003
- "The Magic of Herbs"; David Conway; 1973
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