Fight Pollution With Diet: 8 Herbal Teas You Should Sip To Combat The Side Effects

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The air around us is getting harder to breathe. From burning eyes and recurring headaches to that constant cough that just doesn't seem to go away, pollution is leaving its mark on our bodies in very noticeable ways. And while using air purifiers, masking up, or avoiding peak pollution hours definitely help, supporting your body from the inside is equally important.

There is one surprisingly simple addition you can make: sipping the right teas. Herbal teas are full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help cleanse the body, strengthen the lungs, and boost immunity.

8 Herbal Teas To Fight Air Pollution

Here are eight teas you can include in your daily routine to fight the effects of bad air.

1. Green Tea

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A widely celebrated tea for fitness enthusiasts, this tea can be your saviour during this pollution season. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, it was found that non-oxidised and nonfermented varieties of green tea contain various polyphenols, including green tea catechins, showing protective properties against certain environmental pollutants and toxicants. Additionally, it possesses diuretic properties that can help release toxins from your body.

2. Turmeric Tea

Turmeric is a widely used ingredient in home remedies and has a wide range of health benefits. This yellow spice includes curcumin, which helps to pacify lung irritation and reduce oxidative damage. Having turmeric tea once or twice a day boosts your respiratory system and enhances your immunity. Similarly, a warm turmeric latte-so called haldi doodh-works, but turmeric tea is lighter and easier to sip throughout the day.

3. Tulsi Tea

There is a reason behind tulsi being an integral part of Indian households since time immemorial. It helps relieve symptoms like sore throat, mild fever, congestion, and allergies- all common effects of polluted air. Tulsi also has antimicrobial properties, which help your body fight off infections when your immunity is compromised.

4. Ginger and Lemon Tea

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You can even sip ginger and lemon tea to alleviate the harmful effects of air pollution. It will help clear your airways, improve sore throat, cold, cough, and congestion. Ginger helps reduce the inflammation in the airways, while lemon provides vitamin C that boosts the immune response; together, they help loosen phlegm, clear congestion, and ease coughing.

5. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea tastes refreshing, but its benefits go beyond the cool flavour. This tea contains menthol, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It can help ease breathing by relaxing the muscles around the airways, reduce throat irritation, and congestion.

6. Eucalyptus Tea

Eucalyptus is a powerful decongestant herb with antimicrobial properties. Drinking eucalyptus tea can effectively decongest a blocked nasal pathway and offer relief to congested sinuses. If your chest feels heavy, this tea may bring noticeable relief.

7. Liquorice Root Tea

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Liquorice root is an herbal expectorant that helps loosen the mucus, thereby soothing irritation of the throat. It's particularly effective in chronic, dry coughs caused by pollution.

8. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is usually known for its calming effect; it also has mild anti-inflammatory properties. Since pollution disrupts sleep patterns, it helps your body find better rest and recover more actively, hence strengthening one's immune system.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.