Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Black tea has a long history of traditional use in many cultures as a home remedy to help prevent or soothe the symptoms of colds. This is largely due to its comforting warmth, hydrating properties, and the presence of certain bioactive compounds like polyphenols and catechins, which are believed to have mild antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. In traditional medicine, hot black tea is frequently consumed with honey, lemon, or spices to help ease sore throats or congestion and provide a sense of comfort during illness.

However, scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of black tea specifically for cold prevention is limited. Some laboratory studies suggest that the polyphenols in tea may have antiviral activity and can support immune function, but these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical benefits in human studies for the prevention of common colds. Drinking black tea may help keep you hydrated and provide symptomatic relief, but it should not be considered a substitute for evidence-based preventive measures or treatments for viral respiratory infections. In summary, black tea’s use for cold prevention is primarily rooted in tradition, with only modest biological plausibility and little direct clinical evidence.

More about black tea
More about Colds (prevention)

Other ingredients used for Colds (prevention)

Other health conditions supported by black tea

Products containing black tea