Are you struggling with the nagging symptoms of a sinus infection? A sinus infection can be not only uncomfortable but also, at times, an obstacle to getting through your day. From intense sinus pressure causing headaches and pain to a sore throat and stuffy nose, these symptoms make even basic functions such as breathing difficult. Herbal teas can soothe sore throats and clear nasal passages making them the perfect home remedies to combat sinus headaches and sinus congestion. In this guide, we ranked and reviewed the best teas for a sinus infection.
If you want to get some for yourself, we have a collection of the best teas for your sinuses right here in tea bags, loose leaf, or iced tea pouches.
What is the Best Tea for a Sinus Infection?
1. Yaupon Tea
Yaupon is the only naturally caffeinated plant native to North America. It has unique properties that traditional teas lack. One of these benefits is rutin, which is also found in apples and lemons. It’s an anti-inflammatory that can ease nasal congestion and Yaupon even has 4 times the amount of rutin as found in its popular cousin plant, guayusa. This compound can help serve as a natural remedy for sinus infection symptoms.
Benefits:
- Enhance blood circulation in your throat with the help of rutin which can help strengthen and improve flexibility of blood vessels, and help soothe a sore throat.
- Decreased chronic inflammation via chlorogenic acid (CGA) that has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing painful nasal swelling.
- A boost for your immune system from antioxidant activity that removes free radicals in your body.
Side Effects:
- May cause sleeplessness due to caffeine if large amounts of yaupon are consumed all at once.
Try our CatSpring Yaupon tea to fight allergies. It’s organic, non-gmo, kosher, sustainably grown, and naturally caffeinated.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea has been used for thousands of years and is still great at helping relieve nasal drainage. A slightly spicy drink, it helps relax nasal muscles and soothe inflammation. Some studies have shown that can also reduce the severity and duration of a cold. Ginger tea can also improve blood circulation, reducing facial pain and sinus pressure. As a rule of thumb, one cup of ginger tea contains about 250 milligrams of ginger so aim to drink two to four cups of this tea to alleviate symptoms of allergies.
Benefits:
- Reduce inflammation naturally because it contains antioxidative, anti-inflammatory phytochemical compounds such as gingerol.
- Ease nausea or upset stomach thanks to gingerol that has been shown to calm an upset stomach.
- Made using fresh ginger root which packs a punch when it comes to healing symptoms of allergies.
Side Effects:
- Makes heartburn worse because it relaxes the muscle that prevents stomach bile from entering the esophagus.
3. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a refreshing way to alleviate sinus congestion and a stuffy nose. It has a signature minty flavor due to its easy brewing using mint leaves. The menthol in peppermint tea acts as a natural decongestant, helping to open up nasal passages and reduce sinus headaches. Sipping on peppermint tea can soothe a sore throat and bring relief from the symptoms of sinusitis. There is also research that suggests it can also kill germs that cause dental plaque, helping protect your teeth. A refreshing glass that has a cooling effect, this is a yummy option for those looking to ease allergies
Benefits:
- Ease headaches as peppermint is a natural muscle relaxant while the menthol increases blood flow that creates a cooling sensation.
- Decrease nasal congestion in large part due to the vapors that increase the perception of airflow, easing congestion pain and discomfort.
- Settle your stomach by relaxing the muscles of your intestinal walls.
Side Effects:
- Can worsen acid reflux by relaxing the muscles around the stomach sphincter.
4. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is known for its calming effects and is a wonderful remedy for sinus issues. This herbal tea can help reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and ease sinus pain. Chamomile tea’s soothing properties also make it an excellent choice for relieving sinus headaches and promoting relaxation. It’s perfect for sipping before bed to ensure a good night’s sleep despite sinus problems. One benefit is supporting a healthy heart through the compound flavones which has the potential to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Benefits:
- Increase calmness and relaxation due to the powerhouse compound apigenin that can also relieve nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
- Boost your immune system with antioxidants that protect healthy cells from damaging free radicals.
- Hydrate your throat with its light, earthy, and floral brew that gently goes down your throat.
Side Effects
- Potential drowsiness that may worsen fatigue.
5. Echinacea Tea
Echinacea tea is renowned for its immune system-boosting properties, making it an excellent choice during a sinus infection. This tea can help reduce the duration of sinus symptoms and provide relief from sinus congestion. Drinking echinacea tea regularly can help strengthen your immune system and ward off future sinus infections, making it a fantastic preventative measure.
Benefits:
- May reduce the duration and occurrence of the common cold as suggested by some studies.
- Improve your immune system with the vitamin C and antibacterial properties of echinacea tea.
- Reduce pain thanks to echinacea’s ability to reduce the sensation of pain.
Side Effects:
- May cause nausea due to strong floral aroma.
6. Green Tea
Green tea is packed with antioxidants that can help fight off viral infections and bacterial sinus infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in reducing sinus pressure and nasal congestion. Green tea can also boost your immune system, helping your body combat the cause of your sinus infections. Make green tea a part of your daily routine for its myriad health benefits.
Benefits:
- Protect your cells with the polyphenols and catechins from green tea that reduce free radicals that damage your cells.
- Ease inflammation by inhaling the aroma and loosening nasal congestion for easier breathing.
- Stay hydrated by enjoying multiple delicious cups throughout the day.
Side Effects:
- May cause sleeplessness due to caffeine if large amounts are consumed all at once.
7. Tumeric Tea
Turmeric has long been used in India in various dishes and is known quite well for its distinctive yellow color caused by curcumin. Ongoing research is determining the effects of curcumin in turmeric tea but it may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic properties. Beyond helping heal some of the physical elements of a hangover, turmeric has a soothing effect on nerves which can relieve stress and anxiety. Cucumin has been found to ease inflammation and help reduce the effects of allergies. Peppery with a taste of ginger, this tea is tasty and helpful.
Benefits:
- With its anti-inflammatory properties Tumeric can relieve inflamed tissues throughout the body including in your nasal passages.
- Stimulate blood flow which helps to flush out toxins and irritants.
- No caffeine makes this a great bedtime option.
Side Effects:
- When consumed in high doses turmeric tea can hurt some people’s stomachs.
Additional Tips for Sinus Relief
Alongside these wonderful teas, consider incorporating other home remedies into your routine:
- Use a neti pot with warm water to rinse your nasal passages.
- Take a hot shower to help open nasal passages and reduce sinus pressure.
- Try a warm compress on your face to alleviate facial pain and sinus headaches.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to thin nasal discharge and ease sinus congestion.
- Use essential oils, like eucalyptus or peppermint, in a diffuser to help clear nasal passages.
- Consult a healthcare provider for persistent or severe sinus symptoms and explore prescription medications or other medical treatments as needed.
The Bottom Line
Owing to their amazing healthy-boosting properties, these are some of the best teas for a sinus infection. They can help soothe symptoms of nausea, congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and difficulty breathing.
If you want to get our best tasting tea for a sinus infection, check out our organic, naturally caffeinated CatSpring Yaupon tea here.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. If you have serious health-related issues you should reach out to a medical professional. While we have studied the scientific research available, this is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
