Fight Off Chest Infections With This Herbal Tea

If you’ve ever been hit by a chest cold of infection, you know that it’s not a pleasant journey. Raw throats, coughing, exhaustion, breathing difficulties, headaches, a blocked nose, the list of maladies goes on. The best option is to consult with your doctor and get on the right course of medication to help your body fight off the infection, but there are a few things you can do at home to help the process along and soothe your respiratory system in the process. 

Steam inhalation is a great help as it helps loosen the mucous in the chest and clear it out quicker. But if that process is a little inconvenient or you don't have the facilities to do steam inhalation regularly, then herbal teas could be your next best bet. Hot herbal teas can soothe the inflamed tissues in the throat and loosen mucous from the inside out. 

This recipe for Peppermint, Eucalyptus and Fenugreek Tea is especially effective against chest colds and infections because the ingredients are all tailored specifically to deal with issues in the upper respiratory tract. 

Eucalyptus oil reacts with the mucous membranes reducing and loosening mucous to help you eject it from your body easily. It is also thought to help alleviate asthma symptoms. Fenugreek (aka methi) seeds are really good for lung health. According to a study in the European Respiratory Journal, methi contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which may enhance lung health and prevent respiratory problems. Peppermint is also a great addition because it alleviates clogged sinuses that are brought on due to infections, colds or allergies.

If you can’t get fresh leaves, use dried ones or premade teabags, avoid using essential oils as they may be toxic or impure. This tea is simple to make and very soothing to drink so even if you’re feeling really terrible, we suggest taking 15 minutes to whip up a batch of this tea and stay hydrated all day.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds
  • Handful of peppermint leaves 
  • 1 tbsp eucalyptus tea
  • 1 cup of water
  • Honey or agave to sweeten, optional

Method

  • Add the fenugreek seeds to a dry pan and toast lightly.
  • Add your water, eucalyptus leaves and peppermint leaves.
  • Allow the mixture to boil for 15 minutes before straining into a mug. Add honey to taste if required. 
  • Consume twice daily.