I made an antiviral tea blend meant to help boost the immune system, and it turned out lovely. The taste and the effects were absolutely spot-on, and I had to share! I made some for my brother when he was sick, and he enjoyed the taste enough to ask for more! It’s relatively simple, and can be made with a coffee press or with a couple of tea bags. I ended up making about a liter at a time to keep in the fridge for use throughout the day. Next time, I may try freezing it into popsicles to work through, especially for sore throats!
The Herbs and Their Effects
- Mullein Leaf – saponins hydrate the lungs, and help loosen and expectorate mucus. A great addition to antiviral tea, especially if a cough is involved.
- Oregon Grape Root – berberine in Oregon grape root has been noted to help fight off influenza, rhinovirus (aka, the common cold), and HPV, among a few others.
- Stinging Nettle – stinging nettle is full of minerals and vitamins that support the body’s important functions, making it easier for the immune system to do its job… It also makes a tasty base for the rest of the ingredients to play along with.
- Fresh ginger root – acts in the lungs to fight off viral infections including RSV, influenza A, and rhinovirus. Is also a wonderful anti-inflammatory and stomach-ache soother
- Honey – antimicrobial, reduces bitter taste of Oregon grape root, soothes sore throats
We consumed this tea after a long infusion (about 30 minutes), drinking about 4-8 oz every 4-6 hours.
Do not use this blend if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and be sure to ask a doctor before giving this tea to anyone under the age of 18. This is not medical advice, this has been written for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before ingesting an herbal remedy or supplement.
The Best Antiviral Tea Blend
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp. Mullein Leaf
- 3 tbsp. Stinging Nettle Leaf
- 1/2 tbsp. Fresh Ginger, sliced (dime sized)
- 2 tbsp. Dried or Fresh Oregon Grape Root
- Honey, to taste
- 1 liter of boiled water
Directions
- Boil 1 liter of water and set aside to cool slightly.
- Place mullein into two tea bags to prevent their tiny hairs from irritating and tickling the throat. Add to pot of water.
- Add your other ingredients to tea bags if desired, and put them into the pot of water. Alternatively, add all ingredients to a coffee press without tea bags (excepting mullein). Allow to brew 15-30 mins. Decant into a jug or pitcher and store in the fridge. Enjoy your tea!
I have used and enjoyed the herbs from the shops below, and highly recommend them. For fresh ginger, check your local farmer’s markets and grocery stores! Ginger stores well for weeks, sometimes months, at a time, and is a wonderful plant ally to have on hand.
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