Should I avoid tea during a fever?

January 8, 2026 •

3 min read

According to health experts, drinking plenty of fluids is crucial for managing a fever and preventing dehydration. This often leads to the question: 'Should I avoid tea during a fever?' The answer depends on the type of tea and its caffeine content, as herbal options can be soothing while caffeinated varieties might hinder hydration.

Quick Summary

The suitability of drinking tea during a fever depends on the type. Caffeinated teas can be dehydrating and are best avoided, but herbal teas are hydrating and can help soothe symptoms like sore throats and congestion. Prioritize caffeine-free options like peppermint or chamomile for safe relief during illness.

Key Points

Avoid Caffeinated Teas: Black and green teas contain caffeine, a diuretic that can lead to dehydration, which is counterproductive when fighting a fever.
Choose Herbal Teas: Caffeine-free herbal teas like peppermint, ginger, and chamomile are excellent alternatives for staying hydrated and providing symptomatic relief.
Soothe Symptoms: The warmth of herbal tea can help ease a sore throat and loosen mucus, while ingredients like peppermint can act as a natural decongestant.
Boost Immunity: Many herbal teas, including ginger and elderberry, contain beneficial antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support the immune system.
Prioritize Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, including water and herbal tea, is essential to replace fluids lost through sweating during a fever.
Listen to Your Body: While tea can be soothing, it is not a cure. Rest is crucial, and you should always consult a doctor if your symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Why Hydration is Critical During a Fever

When you have a fever, your body's temperature rises, which can lead to increased sweating. This fluid loss increases the risk of dehydration, making it essential to maintain adequate fluid intake. Hydration is key for recovery, as it supports the body's natural defense mechanisms and helps flush out toxins. While water is always the best choice, certain caffeine-free teas can also contribute positively to your fluid intake and provide additional benefits.

The Problem with Caffeinated Teas

Black and green teas contain caffeine, a natural diuretic that can increase urine production. This can counteract your efforts to stay hydrated, a particular concern when your body is already losing fluids through sweating. A study also suggested that caffeine might cause a higher fever in some cases, although more research is needed. For these reasons, it's generally recommended to avoid high-caffeine beverages like black and green tea while sick with a fever.

The Healing Power of Herbal Teas

Herbal teas, or tisanes, are an excellent alternative to traditional teas during a fever because they are naturally caffeine-free and offer soothing properties. The warmth from a hot cup can provide immediate comfort and help clear congestion by loosening mucus. Additionally, many herbs have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties that can aid your recovery.

Here are some of the best herbal tea options:

Ginger Tea: Contains anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. It can help soothe a sore throat, ease congestion, and relieve nausea.
Peppermint Tea: The menthol in peppermint acts as a natural decongestant and can help clear nasal passages. It also has cooling effects that can help manage fever.
Chamomile Tea: Well-known for its calming and soothing properties, chamomile can help you rest and sleep better, which is crucial for recovery. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits.
Lemon and Honey Tea: A classic remedy, this simple concoction combines vitamin C from lemon to support the immune system with honey, which has antimicrobial properties and soothes a sore throat.
Elderberry Tea: Rich in antioxidants and with potent antiviral qualities, elderberry tea can help support the immune system's fight against viruses.

Herbal Tea vs. Caffeinated Tea for Fever


Feature	Herbal Tea (e.g., Peppermint, Chamomile)	Caffeinated Tea (e.g., Black, Green)
Caffeine Content	None (naturally caffeine-free)	Contains caffeine, a diuretic
Hydration Effect	Hydrating, encourages fluid intake	Can cause slight dehydration
Symptom Relief	Soothes sore throat, eases congestion	Limited direct symptomatic relief for fever
Immune Support	Often contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds	Also contains antioxidants, but diuretic effect is a drawback
Sleep Impact	Promotes relaxation and rest	Can cause sleep disturbances
Best for Fever?	Yes, for hydration and symptom relief	No, due to risk of dehydration

Other Considerations and Best Practices

When preparing any tea, especially for a fever, a few best practices can enhance its benefits. Ensure the tea is warm, not scalding hot, to avoid irritating a sore throat further. Adding a spoonful of honey can help soothe the throat, but avoid giving honey to infants under one year old due to the risk of botulism. Listening to your body is most important; if you feel discomfort or your symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional. While tea can provide comfort, it is not a substitute for medical treatment if your fever is severe or persistent. Remember to rest, which is essential for recovery. A variety of light, nutritious foods and broths can also aid healing. The warmth of a cup of herbal tea combined with rest can be a powerful tool for self-care during illness.

Conclusion

In summary, while you should avoid caffeinated teas during a fever to prevent potential dehydration, many herbal teas are a safe and comforting choice. Opt for hydrating, symptom-relieving options like peppermint, chamomile, or ginger tea, which can aid in your recovery. Combining these teas with plenty of fluids and rest is a simple yet effective strategy for managing fever symptoms and supporting your immune system. Always listen to your body and seek professional medical advice if your symptoms are severe or persistent.

Herbal Teas for Flu Symptoms - Herbs and Kettles

Frequently Asked Questions

It is best to avoid green tea when you have a fever because it contains caffeine, which is a diuretic and can cause slight dehydration. Sticking to herbal, caffeine-free options is a safer choice.

Herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, and chamomile are excellent choices for a fever. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, peppermint acts as a decongestant, and chamomile can promote relaxation and sleep, all of which are beneficial during illness.

Yes, drinking warm herbal tea is fine and can be very soothing. The warmth can help alleviate a sore throat and clear congestion by loosening mucus. Just be sure it's not too hot, which could further irritate your throat.

Adding honey to your tea can help soothe a sore throat and has antimicrobial properties. It is important to remember that honey should not be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of infant botulism.

If you're avoiding caffeinated teas, excellent alternatives include water, clear broths, and decaffeinated herbal teas. Electrolyte drinks can also be beneficial if you are experiencing significant fluid loss.

Black tea can be harmful because its caffeine content may cause dehydration, which is already a risk during a fever due to sweating. It is advisable to avoid it and choose a caffeine-free alternative.

While certain herbal teas like ginger and peppermint have properties that might help manage symptoms associated with fever, no tea is a proven fever reducer. Staying hydrated is the main benefit, but you should not rely on tea alone to lower your temperature.