12 Best Teas for Lung Health

Drinking certain herbal teas may help soothe the respiratory tract, reduce irritation, and provide antioxidant support for overall lung health.

From peppermint and ginger to lesser-known options like mullein and calendula, each tea offers unique compounds that can promote easier breathing and comfort during seasonal changes.

This guide highlights 12 of the best teas for lung health, summarizing their key properties so you can choose the ones that fit your needs.

Best Tea for Lung Health: A Quick Table

12 Herbal Teas for Lung Health: Detailed Overview

Calendula Tea

Calendula flowers are rich in flavonoids and carotenoids, compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and cell-protective properties. When brewed into tea, they may help soothe sensitive tissues in the respiratory tract and ease dryness or irritation.

Studies suggest that calendula extract can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which may support overall lung comfort (Kirichenko et al., 2020) [1].

Dandelion Root Tea

Dandelion root stands out for its high polyphenol content, which can help neutralize free radicals and moderate inflammation in the body. This herbal tea is also linked with liver detoxification support.

When the liver functions efficiently, the process of eliminating toxins becomes smoother, which may reduce the burden on the lungs. Some preclinical findings also indicate that dandelion root extract could help relax airway smooth muscles, contributing to easier breathing [2].

Peppermint Tea

The menthol oil in peppermint leaves brings a cooling sensation and easier breathing, especially useful when the body shows signs of nasal congestion or airway irritation. Enjoying a cup of peppermint tea not only provides refreshment but also helps users feel clearer in their breathing.

Studies on menthol show that this compound may improve the perception of airflow during breathing, contributing to reduced discomfort in the airways [3].

Elderberry Tea

Elderberries contain high levels of anthocyanins and vitamin C, often mentioned in products that support immune health. Some clinical studies suggest that elderberry extract may shorten the duration and reduce the severity of upper respiratory symptoms during flu season (Tiralongo et al., 2016) [4].

On forums such as Reddit, many people share that elderberry syrup is not only pleasant to drink but also helps soothe dry cough, ease nasal congestion, and provide quick comfort, especially when combined with honey *.

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is known for its spicy flavor and warm aroma, containing important compounds such as gingerol and shogaol. These active substances are not only anti-inflammatory and antioxidant but may also relax airway muscles, thereby reducing breathing discomfort and supporting airway flow (Townsend et al., 2013) [5].

Drinking ginger tea regularly may soothe an irritated throat, reduce scratchiness, and support mucus clearance, especially during seasonal changes or cold weather. Beyond benefits for the lungs, ginger tea also supports blood circulation and strengthens natural defenses.

Licorice Root Tea

Licorice, a well-known herb for lung health in traditional medicine, is rich in glycyrrhizin and flavonoids that may help regulate immunity and reduce inflammation.

Drinking licorice tea may soothe the respiratory lining, thereby reducing throat dryness and supporting protection of cells from oxidative stress (Licorice Root: Usefulness and Safety, 2020) [6].

In addition, this tea brings a natural sweet taste, making it easy to enjoy and often used to ease coughing. However, use should be moderate, since too much may cause side effects such as water retention or high blood pressure. It is a suitable choice when short-term respiratory support is needed.

Thyme Tea

Thymol and carvacrol in thyme leaves have antibacterial properties, helping inhibit the growth of respiratory bacteria and supporting natural mucus clearance (Bernd Kemmerich et al., 2011). When consumed as tea, thyme may soothe the throat, reduce coughing, and improve chest heaviness.

Many natural cough remedies also combine thyme with ivy leaves to increase effectiveness. This is a gentle but useful choice for those who want to care for their respiratory system with natural methods.

Mullein Tea

Mullein tea is often used to soothe the throat and support mucus clearance. This plant contains a large amount of mucilage, a natural substance that can coat the mucous membranes, helping reduce throat irritation and ease coughing.

When consumed as tea, mullein supports the expulsion of mucus, clears the airways, and provides more comfort when the throat is irritated. In addition, mullein also has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that help enhance protection of the respiratory system against environmental factors [8].

Green Tea

Green tea is well known for containing catechins, especially EGCG, a powerful antioxidant. These compounds help protect lung tissue from free radical damage and reduce oxidative stress, a factor related to many chronic respiratory conditions.

Some epidemiological studies have also indicated that regular consumption of green tea is associated with a lower risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [9].

Chrysanthemum Tea

Chrysanthemum tea has long been used in traditional medicine as a drink that helps cool the body and reduce burning sensations. Chrysanthemum flowers contain many flavonoids and antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and soothe the respiratory tract [10].

Drinking chrysanthemum tea regularly may help ease an irritated throat, support sleep, and reduce stress. Its light and pleasant flavor makes it popular not only for health support but also for relaxation.

Related article: How to Improve Lung Health After Smoking

Tangerine Puerh Tea

The combination of fermented Puerh tea and dried tangerine peel creates a drink with a distinctive flavor and health benefits. Tangerine peel contains hesperidin, a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects, while Puerh tea is rich in polyphenols that support metabolism and reduce oxidative stress.

When consumed regularly, this tea may not only support better digestion but also indirectly reduce the toxin burden on the liver and lungs [11].

Eucalyptus Tea

Eucalyptus tea contains cineole, a natural compound notable for thinning mucus and reducing inflammation. When consumed as tea or inhaled as steam, many people feel clearer airways and less nasal congestion.

This tea may help ease coughing and provide a soothing, relaxing feeling. In addition, eucalyptus has antibacterial properties that help protect the body from certain respiratory pathogens [12].

Conclusion

Choosing the best teas for lung health can be a simple way to support everyday breathing comfort. Herbal teas for lung health such as ginger, mullein, or peppermint provide soothing effects that may ease throat irritation, reduce oxidative stress, and help keep the airways clear.

While these teas for lung health bring gentle benefits, they should be viewed as complementary rather than primary care. For lasting results, enjoy them in moderation and pair with a balanced lifestyle and professional guidance.