Herbal teas, used in winter months to strengthen immunity and support treatment for colds, flu, and coughs, offer numerous benefits. Experts recommending echinacea for protection against colds, flu, and rhinitis state that mallow, with its Vitamin C content, is a powerful antioxidant. Experts note that chamomile, which is soothing for the throat, can support in cases of dry cough, and helps protect respiratory health, is an immune-boosting plant, and they highlight that linden encourages sweating in feverish conditions and has a relaxing and chest-softening effect in dry coughs.
Dr. Lecturer Tuğba Kaman, Head of Medical and Aromatic Plants Program at Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (SHMYO), made evaluations regarding winter teas frequently consumed during the current winter months and which health problems they can solve.
Echinacea protects against colds, flu, and rhinitis
Noting that supporting the immune system is the first measure that comes to mind to protect against conditions like colds and flu, Dr. Tuğba Kaman said, “Many plants are available in nature that strengthen immunity for winter illnesses, help treat colds, detoxify the body, facilitate digestion, and are relaxing or soothing. For example, echinacea is among the first plants that come to mind for protection against colds, flu, and rhinitis. Components such as polysaccharides, glycoprotein components, flavonoids, and caffeic acid derivatives found within it have been shown by experimental and clinical studies to play a role in the immune system and be protective against colds.” she said.
Mallow contains Vitamin C, licorice root softens the chest
Dr. Tuğba Kaman stated that mallow, with its rich Vitamin C content, is a powerful antioxidant plant and a good choice to support during winter illnesses. “Mallow also softens the chest, is beneficial for the throat, has soothing and emollient properties, its flower teas are known to be good for hoarseness, and it is a digestive aid. Licorice root is also an important medicinal plant that can be used as a chest softener and expectorant in upper respiratory tract conditions like bronchitis, and can be used to support against colds and flu due to its antiviral effects.” she said.
You can benefit from chamomile and linden…
“Another plant that is soothing for your throat, can support you in cases of dry cough, helps protect respiratory health, and boosts immunity is chamomile,” said Dr. Tuğba Kaman, adding, “Linden flowers are known to contribute to your body's natural defense, help maintain health, encourage sweating in feverish conditions, and be relaxing and chest-softening in dry coughs.” she said.
Sage strengthens the immune system
Dr. Tuğba Kaman stated that another medicinal plant known to strengthen the immune system in autumn and winter months is sage. “Sage infusion is known to relieve sore throats and be beneficial for mouth and throat sores thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, thanks to its ursolic acid content, it helps with digestive problems and excessive sweating.” she said.
Cinnamon fights infections
Dr. Tuğba Kaman stated that cinnamon and ginger are also among the favorite plants for winter, adding, “Cinnamon has strong anti-inflammatory properties and also fights common infections. Like cinnamon, ginger is also a good herb for a winter tea. Ginger, known to improve digestion and detoxify the body, is also one of the favorite plants in winter because it alleviates cold symptoms.” she explained.
Mint and thyme should also be utilized
Dr. Tuğba Kaman stated that mint and thyme are also among important plants, adding, “Mint tea, known to be good for blocked sinuses and to relieve headaches, contains menthol that helps soothe coughs and throat irritation, making it a supportive herb for colds. Thyme, with its strong antioxidant property, is known to relieve sore throats, chest pain, and coughs, and due to its antimicrobial effects, it can be beneficial in respiratory tract infections.” she said.