Balance Grow Honey Citron and Ginger Tea contains 65% sliced citron, 5% ginger extract, and 5% sundry honey. It also has 5% sugar, citric acid, vitamin C, and carrageenan. The latter is a red seaweed-based thickening agent that’s added to various products. Even though a 2021 study in Pharmacology Research and Perspectives listed it as a new and potential treatment for the common cold, the science is lacking when it comes to this ingredient.
According to Dr. Jason Singh, the popular Costco tea could work because of the synergistic effect of all of its ingredients. “[This] can enhance overall soothing and healing properties,” per the expert. You’re probably aware of honey’s effect on a sore throat. As explained by Dr. Singh, honey is famous for its antimicrobial properties, which fight bacterial growth. “Honey has a coating effect, which forms a protective layer on the throat’s mucous membranes, thereby reducing irritation and improving throat pain.” In fact, mixing a tablespoon of honey in warm water and consuming it as tea is not an uncommon natural remedy for sore throats.
Ginger extract is another ingredient in the tea blend that can help, mainly because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that combat inflamed tissues. “The citron component provides vitamin C (54 milligrams), which can boost the immune [system]’s response to infections [and] has antioxidant properties. Vitamin C also promotes collagen synthesis, which is important for healing and maintaining integrity of inflamed throat membranes.”