Preparing for a big singing performance can be complex with a lot to manage. From warming up and preventing a sore throat, to remembering your routine, to combatting common problems such as congestion, the right tea can help set you up for success. In this guide, we ranked and reviewed the best teas for singers.
If you want to get some for yourself, we have a collection of the best teas for singers right here in tea bags, loose leaf, or iced tea pouches.
What is the Best Tea for Singers?
1. Yaupon Tea
Yaupon is the only naturally caffeinated plant native to North America. This means that unlike other teas that are traditionally made with Camellia sinensis, yaupon has unique properties in addition to caffeine. One of these is the pairing with theobromine (the same compound found in chocolate that boosts your mood). When combined with caffeine, theobromine improves performance while minimizing susceptibility to distractions.
Benefits:
- Enhance blood circulation in your throat with the help of rutin which can help strengthen and improve flexibility of blood vessels, empowering more singing.
- Improved attention and focus thanks to the effects of caffeine and theobromine together.
- Lack of jitteriness in part due to the combination with l-theanine that increases GABA release in the brain and has a relaxing and anxiety-relieving effect.
Side Effects:
- May cause sleeplessness due to caffeine if large amounts of yaupon are consumed all at once.
Try our CatSpring Yaupon tea to excel as a singer. It’s organic, non-gmo, kosher, sustainably grown, and naturally caffeinated.
2. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea has a long history of use throughout Asia and is made by steeping ginger root, one of the most common ingredients globally. As many who fly know, ginger is often used as a remedy for motion sickness (check out all those passengers ordering ginger ale). High levels of antioxidants in ginger are great for combatting irritation in overworked vocal chords and throat to ease pain and inflammation.
Benefits:
- Combat nausea thanks to ginger’s active ingredient, gingerol, that’s been shown to relieve an upset stomach in pregnant women and chemotherapy patients.
- Support a healthy immune system with the powerful antioxidants to protect your throat from infections.
- Soothe an irritated throat and vocal cords by mixing with organic honey to coat your throat and provide lubrication at the same time.
Side Effects
- May cause gas and bloating if you consume too much.
3. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is primarily brewed from one of two daisy-like species of flower and commonly known for its stress-relieving properties. It’s long been believed to have health benefits though many are still under research. One benefit is supporting a healthy heart through the compound flavones which has the potential to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Benefits:
- Increase calmness due to the powerhouse compound apigenin that can also relieve nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
- Boost your immune system with antioxidants that protect healthy cells from damaging free radicals.
- Hydrate your throat with its light, earthy, and floral brew that gently goes down your throat.
Side Effects
- Potential drowsiness that may worsen fatigue.
4. Licorice Root Tea
Licorice root has a long history of usage across Asia and Europe, even dating back to the pharaohs of Ancient Egypt. Made from the root of the licorice plant, it has been used to treat an upset stomach, treat respiratory problems, and decrease inflammation. Contemporarily, people use licorice to remedy acid reflux and other intestinal issues.
Benefits:
- Soothe your throat and vocal cords as licorice root can increase production of new mucous that helps remove congested mucous and provide a throat coat.
- Hydrate your throat by washing away any debris in your throat and clearing your vocal cords.
Side Effects:
- May elevate the stress hormone, cortisol production, due to glycyrrhizin accumulation when consumed over long periods of time.
5. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea has a signature minty flavor due to its easy brewing using mint leaves. This menthol based flavor can help clear out sinuses and make it easier to breathe while also freshening your breath instantly. There is also research that suggests it can also kill germs that cause dental plaque, helping protect your teeth. A refreshing glass that has a cooling effect, this is a yummy option for those trying out tea.
Benefits:
- Ease headaches as peppermint is a natural muscle relaxant while the menthol increases blood flow that creates a cooling sensation.
- Decrease nasal congestion in large part due to the vapors that increase the perception of airflow, easing congestion pain and discomfort.
- Easy to complement the flavor with ginger, honey, or fruits to find a delicious cup for anytime.
Side Effects:
- Can worsen acid reflux by relaxing the muscles around the stomach sphincter.
6. Green Tea
Green tea has not undergone the oxidation process that creates black tea and oolong teas. It tends to have a lighter flavor profile and appearance due to the lack of oxidation. Usually, green tea steeps for a shorter period of time than black teas as steeping too long draws out tannins that can make the brew bitter. It has lots of antioxidants that protect the body and boost the immune system, while also decreasing inflammation and irritation.
Benefits:
- Protect your cells with the polyphenols and catechins from green tea that reduce free radicals that damage your cells.
- Improve focus and attention due to the cooperation between l-theanine and caffeine.
- Have fresher breath as green tea catechins kill bacteria common in the mouth that are responsible for bad breath.
Side Effects:
- May increase sleeplessness if consumed in large amounts.
7. Ginseng Tea
Ginseng has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. There are many varieties of ginseng and depending on when it is harvested, it can be fresh, white, or red ginseng. Through antioxidant compounds, ginseng has anti-inflammatory properties and thus protect the throat and vocal cords while also supporting a stronger immune system.
Benefits:
- Increased energy levels as it improves blood circulation and flow.
- Improve brain function such as focus and memory due to ginsenosides that can protect against free radicals.
- Boost your immune system with antibacterial properties that help ward off bad bacteria.
Side Effects:
- May cause dry mouth and increase nervousness.
The Bottom Line
Owing to their amazing hydrating and soothing properties, these are some of the best types of teas for singers. They can help calm the throat, improve focus and attention, and combat common issues faced by singers.
If you want to get our best tasting tea for singers, check out our organic, naturally caffeinated CatSpring Yaupon tea here.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and shouldn’t be taken as medical advice. If you have serious health-related issues you should reach out to a medical professional. While we have studied the scientific research available, this is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
