Sore throat, coughs, and colds are a hallmark of weather change, and now as winter slowly begins to set in, there is nothing better than a hot cup of tea to soothe your throat irritation. While tea has been used for centuries to promote health and heal illness, it is always recommended to have the caffeine-free version, which is a natural antibiotic for strep infection.

Among the best teas that can soothe a sore throat is the aromatic peppermint tea—naturally sweet in taste and refreshing for your system.

Since peppermint leaves contain several essential oils, including menthol, menthone, and limonene, tea made with these also acts as a muscle relaxant and pain reliever and diminishes the headaches and migraines that come with nasal congestion and sore throats.

According to experts, the menthol in peppermint increases blood flow and provides a cooling sensation, possibly easing pain.

Peppermint is loaded with antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties—all of which alleviate clogged sinuses due to infections, the common cold, and even allergies.

Also, studies say that menthol, one of the active compounds in peppermint, helps improve the perception of airflow in your nasal cavity. And so, the steam in your hot peppermint tea makes your breathing also easy.

Since peppermint is rich in rosmarinic acid, a plant compound found in rosemary and other plants in the mint family, it helps reduce symptoms of allergy like a sore throat and runny nose.

Experts say menthol acts as a natural analgesic that numbs throat pain and has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat tissue. It also provides a much-needed cooling sensation. Both peppermint and menthol have antibacterial properties—plus if your sore throat is a result of a bacterial infection, like strep.

Peppermint tea is delicious and easy to add to your diet. You can either buy it in tea bags as loose-leaf tea or simply grow your own peppermint. To make your own peppermint tea, you must:

• Bring a cup of water to a boil
• Turn off the heat and add a handful of torn peppermint leaves to the water
• Cover and steep for at least 3-4 minutes
• Strain the tea and drink
• Even though it is naturally sweet, you can add a dash of honey if you want

Doctors say since peppermint tea is naturally free of caffeine, you can drink it at any time of day. However, it is best enjoyed as a post-meal treat to aid digestion, in the afternoon to boost your energy levels, or before bed to help you relax.

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