Watching your child struggle with a persistent cough is a heartbreaking moment for every parent out there. And as parents, you want nothing more than to give some comfort and relief in the safest and most natural way. Here’s what you need—a soothing cup of herbal tea. Herbal teas are gentle, effective remedies that have been used for centuries to ease coughs and sore throats. Packed with natural properties, they can help calm irritated airways and provide warmth and hydration.
Read this article to explore the best herbal teas for soothing coughs in kids.
Best Herbal Teas for Soothing Coughs in Kids
Honey Lemon Tea
Surprisingly, a warm cup of honey lemon tea can actually do magic when it comes to providing relief from cough. Honey coats the throat, reducing irritation and calming cough reflexes, while lemon provides a dose of vitamin C that supports the immune system.
In fact, according to Pediatrics, honey was found to be more effective than over-the-counter cough syrups for children older than 1 year. However, it is not recommended for infants under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.
How To Prepare:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Juice of half a lemon
Simply mix the ingredients and let it simmer for a while. Serve the tea warm.
Ginger Tea
Ginger is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help loosen mucus and relieve coughing. Even some studies have shown that ginger can reduce throat discomfort and has mild analgesic properties.
How To Prepare:
- 1-inch piece of fresh, grated ginger
- 1 cup boiling water
- Honey
Simply steep the grated ginger in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and add a little honey for instant throat relief.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is known for its calming effects and is great for nighttime cough relief. Beyond the relaxing properties, chamomile also has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated throats.
According to a study, chamomile has the ability to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.
How To Prepare:
- 1 chamomile tea bag or 2 teaspoons dried chamomile flowers
- 1 cup boiling water
Steep for 5 minutes and serve lukewarm. You can also add a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea contains menthol, which acts as a decongestant, helping to break up mucus and ease breathing. Furthermore, it has cooling properties that can also help numb the throat and reduce cough intensity.
How To Prepare:
- 1 peppermint tea bag
- 1 cup boiling water
Steep for about five minutes. Now cool slightly and serve warm. However, make sure it's not too strong when serving to kids.
Thyme Tea
Thyme is another powerful herb that is known for its cough relief properties. It contains compounds that relax the muscles of the throat and reduce coughing fits. According to a study, thyme extract significantly improved coughing symptoms in individuals with bronchitis.
How To Prepare:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup boiling water
Simply steep for about 10 minutes and strain. Slightly sweeten with honey and serve warm.
Takeaway
When it comes to providing relief from persistent cough, small comforts matter. Herbal teas have been known for centuries for their soothing warmth and natural healing properties, while gently helping your little one feel better. With these herbal teas, you can make the healing process a bit easier.