Hot Lemon Tea Recipe: A Healthy and Comforting Drink

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Hot Lemon Tea is your answer to a soothing and healing drink. Made with few drops of lemon juice, honey and just a hint of tea leaves. It is refreshing as well. It’s a sure shot solution to sniffles and cold for me.

I never imagined I’d write more than one tea recipe on Lemon in Ginger. I’ve always been more of a coffee person – strong, a little bold, and comforting in its own way. But life has a funny way of surprising you, doesn’t it?

Whenever I feel under the weather – whether it’s a mild cold, a sore throat, or just one of those gloomy days – I find myself reaching for my kettle. Not for coffee, but for this tea. It’s simple, it’s healing, and it honestly feels like a warm hug in a cup.

I occasionally enjoy coffee. Rather, that occasion has been turning to frequent lately.

Two glasses filled with hot lemon tea with a teapot

I gotta watch that!

Then how come I am posting a tea recipe. This is not my first tea recipe here, few months ago I posted Iced Orange Tea. I too have aberrations.

A steaming cup of hot lemon tea with a slice of lemon on the rim, ready to enjoy

This tea is my go-to drink when ill specifically with cold & cough. It immediately gives relief. And when I am visiting people and they insist on serving me tea, I ask for lemon tea. So this comes as a perfect relief in those situations too. :)

It is the healthiest tea with hardly any tea leaves, little sugar, boiled water & some drops of lemon juice. To amp up the health factor and in line with our old age traditions, you can enhance the goodness of the lemon tea with desi khand or bura in place of sugar.

A setup with a cup of hot lemon tea, a teapot, and a diary

With oncoming winter do take time to have a sip of this and trust me, you will be a convert.

In other news, I have been begging, borrowing and buying lot of props. So trip to in-laws place during summer, made me ask my MIL for an old knife she was using, she was so thrilled that she happily took out some other old utensils from her repertoire and offered them to me.

Healthy and comforting hot lemon tea served in a glass

This vintage silver tea set is one such. She was intending to donate it to the local temple trust as it was of no use to her, I begged her to give it to me and she did.

So if you’re looking for Mother’s homemade lemon tea for sore throat, a natural remedy, or just a cozy drink to wind down with, this one’s for you.

Why I Swear by This Hot Lemon Tea (And You Might Too)

This recipe isn’t fancy. There’s no frothing, steeping rituals, or rare ingredients. It’s just water, lemon, a little bit of honey, and a pinch of tea leaves. Yet, it’s one of the most powerful little drinks in my kitchen.

💡 Did you know? This tea is said to aid digestion, support immunity, and even help clear the sinuses. That’s why many people search for “is hot lemon tea good for sore throat” or “benefits of lemon tea in winter” – and end up discovering this gem.

Ingredients Needed for Hot Lemon Tea

  • 1 cup of water
  • ½ tsp of tea leaves (or green tea)
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey (or jaggery/desi khand for a healthier twist)

Optional: a slice of ginger or a pinch of black pepper for extra warmth

Health Benefits of Hot Lemon Tea That I Personally Vouch For

Now, I’m not a doctor – just a home cook who believes in age-old nuskhas and kitchen wisdom passed down through generations. And trust me, this humble tea is like that comforting daadi-ka-gharelu-nuskha that just works.

Here’s what I’ve experienced over the years – and I know many of you have asked the same in searches like “what are the benefits of hot lemon tea?” or “is lemon tea good for cold and cough?” – so here goes:

1. It Soothes a Sore Throat and Clears Nasal Congestion

Whenever that scratchy throat creeps in or my nose starts feeling stuffy, this tea becomes my first line of defense. The warm water loosens mucus, lemon gives a vitamin C kick, and honey coats the throat – total relief! You might even say it’s my comfort cough syrup in a teacup.

2. A Natural Detox Drink (Especially After Overeating!)

After a festive meal or too much takeout (we’ve all been there!), a cup of this tea helps me feel lighter and less bloated. It gently nudges the digestive system and gives that “clean start” feeling. Searches like “is lemon tea good for digestion” or “detox drinks with lemon” all point to this same kitchen staple.

3. Boosts Immunity in Cold Weather

With winter knocking, this tea becomes a daily ritual. Lemon adds natural antioxidants and vitamin C – a known immunity booster. Add a tiny pinch of turmeric or ginger, and it turns into a powerhouse drink to help you avoid seasonal colds. (Yes, it’s totally customizable!)

4. A Calm Cup for Stress & Anxiety

On chaotic days, I find this tea calming. Something about the warmth, the simplicity, and the lemony aroma brings an instant pause. It’s not just a drink – it’s a moment to breathe.

5. Helps Regulate Morning Routine

Okay, this one’s personal and often searched as “does this tea help with bloating or constipation?” – the answer is yes, in my case. Warm water + lemon = gentle start to the day. Enough said!

All these benefits aren’t just from science – they’re from lived experience. And once you start sipping this golden goodness, I’m pretty sure you’ll be vouching for it too.

How Does Hot Lemon Tea Help in Weight Loss?

If you’re trying to shed a few kilos or just want to start your mornings on a healthier note, you might have asked yourself – “Does this tea really help with weight loss?” The answer is yes, and here’s how I’ve personally found it useful:

1. Boosts Metabolism in the Morning – Drinking this tea on an empty stomach can gently boost your metabolism. The warm water helps your body wake up, and the vitamin C in lemon supports fat breakdown and detoxification.

2. Keeps You Full for Longer – Lemon water can help suppress appetite naturally. Having this tea before or between meals reduces sudden cravings and unnecessary snacking, which can cut down on daily calorie intake.

3. Aids Digestion and Reduces Bloating – One of the key reasons people drink lemon tea is its ability to improve digestion. It flushes out toxins and keeps your digestive system functioning smoothly, helping you feel less bloated.

4. Cuts Down on Sugar and High-Calorie Drinks – Hot lemon tea is low in calories and naturally sugar-free (unless you add a little honey). It’s a great replacement for sugary teas, coffee with cream, or soft drinks.

5. Supports Fat Breakdown (Especially with Add-Ons) – Adding ginger or cinnamon to your hot lemon tea can further support fat metabolism. These ingredients have thermogenic properties, meaning they slightly increase calorie burn during digestion.

👉 Real talk: Lemon tea alone won’t make you lose weight overnight, but when paired with a healthy diet and exercise, it’s a simple and effective addition to your routine.

Variations That Keep Hot Lemon Tea Interesting

Because no one likes the same sip every day!

Let’s be real – even the healthiest drinks can feel a little boring if we don’t spice them up once in a while, right? I love how hot lemon tea is like a blank canvas – it’s simple, subtle, and totally open to customization. Over the years, I’ve tried a few twists that not only add flavor but also offer extra health benefits. So, if you’re searching for “different ways to make lemon tea” or “lemon tea variations for cold and flu”, you’re in the right place!

Here are my favorite versions:

1. Ginger Lemon Tea (for Cold and Digestion)

One of the most popular twists – and for good reason! Just add a few slices of fresh ginger while boiling the water. Ginger adds warmth, aids digestion, and helps with congestion.
Search-friendly tip: People often look for “ginger lemon tea for sore throat” – and this is a natural winner.

2. Mint Lemon Tea (Refreshing & Cooling)

On warmer days, I crush a few mint leaves and steep them into the tea. It gives a fresh, cooling touch and pairs beautifully with lemon. A pinch of black salt and it almost tastes like a digestive drink!
Perfect for those searching: “summer version of hot lemon tea” or “cooling lemon tea recipe.”

3. Turmeric Lemon Tea (Golden Detox)

This one’s like the upgraded version of haldi-doodh. A pinch of turmeric in your lemon tea not only gives it a vibrant hue but also boosts its anti-inflammatory properties.
It’s what people often Google as: “turmeric lemon tea for immunity” or “anti-inflammatory lemon tea recipe.”

4. Green Tea with Lemon (Light and Zingy)

Instead of using regular tea leaves, I often steep green tea and add lemon and honey to it. It’s lighter, has more antioxidants, and is a great mid-morning drink.
Popular search terms include: “green tea vs lemon tea” or “can I add lemon to green tea?”

5. Spiced Lemon Tea (Indian Masala Style)

Feeling adventurous? Add a tiny pinch of black pepper, cinnamon, or even a clove while boiling the water. It gives that masala chai-like kick without being too heavy.

6. Fruity Lemon Tea (With a Hint of Berries or Orange)

Once, on a whim, I added crushed strawberries to my hot lemon tea – and wow, the result was surprisingly lovely. You can also add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy punch.
Great for those who search: “lemon tea with fruit” or “how to make fruity hot lemon tea.

So go ahead, experiment with what you already have at home. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a warm hug in a mug, these lemon tea variations are here to keep things exciting, flavorful, and beneficial.

How to Make Hot Lemon Tea at Home?

Hot Lemon Tea

A healthy take on tea. It is very effective for common cold and cough.
Prep Time2 minutes
Cook Time3 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Bevarage, Quick & Easy
Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

  • 4 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp tea
  • 3 tsp lemon juice
  • cup water

Instructions

  • Boil water and sugar together in a small pan.
  • Add tea leaves and switch off the flame. Cover the pan and allow the leaves to steep for a minute.
  • In the meanwhile, divide the lemon juice in 2 cups.
  • Now strain half the tea-water in 1 cup and the remaining in 2nd cup. Stir and serve warm

Notes

  1. You can add some Indian Basil (Tulsi) leaves on top while serving.
  2. Adjust the sugar as per your taste.
  3. You can also replace sugar with honey if you like.
  4. You can enhance the goodness of the lemon tea with desi khand or bura in place of sugar.

Little Backstory – The Vintage Tea Set I Treasure

Let’s take a tiny detour from lemon tea and talk about something that’s very close to my heart – my vintage silver tea set.

I know we all have those special items in the kitchen that carry more than just utility – they hold stories, memories, and a sense of comfort. This tea set is exactly that for me. During one of our summer trips to my in-laws’ home, I found myself admiring a rustic, old silver tea set tucked away in a cupboard. I casually asked my MIL (mother-in-law) about it, and with a nostalgic smile, she told me it hadn’t been used in years.

To my surprise and absolute delight, she happily offered it to me! In fact, she said she was considering donating it to the local temple trust but would be happier knowing it was being used and cherished by someone in the family. Isn’t that just the sweetest gesture?

This tea set, with its dull yet elegant sheen and perfectly imperfect details, now adds so much charm to my kitchen photos – especially for warm, cozy drinks like Hot Lemon Tea. It brings a sense of vintage warmth to my everyday recipes and feels like I’m continuing a legacy, one comforting sip at a time.

Whenever someone asks me about “where to find vintage kitchen props for food photography” or “how to make food styling more authentic”, I always say – look around your own family first. The most treasured pieces often come from the past, wrapped in stories, and passed on with love.

Conclusion – This Cup’s for You

If you’re reading this wrapped in a blanket, sniffling, or just craving something light and warm, I hope this tea brings you the same comfort it brings me. No frills, just care in a cup.

Next time someone asks for a natural tea recipe for cold and cough, you’ll know exactly where to send them. :)

नींबू चाय रेसिपी – सेहत और सुकून का घूंट

गरम नींबू चाय एक सरल लेकिन बेहद लाभकारी पेय है, जिसे नींबू रस, शहद, उबला पानी और थोड़ी सी चाय की पत्तियों से तैयार किया जाता है। यह खासतौर पर सर्दी-खांसी और थकावट में तुरंत राहत देती है। यह रेसिपी बिना दूध की होती है, और इसमें शक्कर की जगह बूरा या देशी खांड मिलाकर इसे और सेहतमंद बनाया जा सकता है। ब्लॉग में लेखक ने अपनी चाय से जुड़ी व्यक्तिगत कहानी, इस पेय के फायदे, इसके स्वादिष्ट वेरिएशन्स (जैसे अदरक नींबू चाय, तुलसी नींबू चाय), और एक पुरानी विरासतवाली सिल्वर टी सेट से जुड़ी प्यारी यादें साझा की हैं। यह रेसिपी न केवल शरीर को राहत देती है बल्कि दिल को भी सुकून देती है।

लिंबूपाणी चहा – आरोग्यदायक आणि मनाला दिलासा देणारा पेय

गरम लिंबूपाणी चहा हा एक सोपा आणि आरोग्यदायक पेय आहे जो लिंबाचा रस, मध, गरम पाणी आणि थोड्या चहा पानांपासून बनवला जातो. सर्दी-खोकल्यात आणि थकव्याच्या वेळी ही चहा झटपट आराम देते. यामध्ये साखरेऐवजी देशी खांड घालून ते अधिक आरोग्यदायक बनवता येते. या ब्लॉगमध्ये लेखकाने स्वतःचे अनुभव, गरम लिंबूपाणी चहा पिण्याचे फायदे, विविध चविष्ट पर्याय (जसे की आले लिंबू चहा, तुळस लिंबू चहा), आणि एक जुना वारसाहक्काचा सिल्वर टी सेट याबद्दल एक खास आठवण शेअर केली आहे. ही रेसिपी केवळ शरीरासाठीच नाही, तर मनासाठीही आरामदायक ठरते.

1. Is hot lemon tea good for cold and sore throat?

Oh, absolutely yes! Hot lemon tea is like that warm hug your throat needs when you’re sneezing or coughing your way through the day. The lemon juice cuts through congestion with its vitamin C power, while the warm water and honey soothe an irritated throat. I personally swear by it whenever I feel the first signs of a cold coming on. It helps in loosening mucus, easing soreness, and providing instant relief without any side effects.

2. Can I drink hot lemon tea every day on an empty stomach?

Yes, you totally can — and many people do! In fact, drinking hot lemon tea on an empty stomach in the morning is a popular wellness ritual. It helps kickstart digestion, boosts metabolism, and flushes out toxins. If you’re looking to add a healthy habit to your daily routine, this is a great one. Just ensure the tea isn’t too acidic for your body type—some people may experience acidity due to lemon.

3. What are the benefits of drinking hot lemon tea for skin and weight loss?

Oh, where do I begin! This one’s a hidden gem. Hot lemon tea is rich in antioxidants which help fight free radicals – yes, the ones responsible for dull skin and premature aging. Plus, it improves digestion, reduces bloating, and revs up metabolism – all of which support healthy weight loss. The best part? It keeps you hydrated and feeling light. So if glowing skin and a flatter tummy are on your vision board, this tea’s a keeper!

4. Can I make lemon tea without caffeine or regular tea leaves?

Definitely. In fact, in my version, I often use very little or no tea leaves. You can simply boil water, add lemon juice, honey (or jaggery/desi khand), and a pinch of ginger or tulsi for flavor. That’s it – no caffeine involved. It becomes a super herbal, calming drink, perfect even before bedtime.

5. Is it okay to drink lemon tea during pregnancy?

It’s mostly safe in moderation, but it’s always best to consult with your doctor first. Lemon juice is a great source of vitamin C and hot lemon tea without caffeine can help with digestion and nausea, especially in the first trimester. But make sure it’s mild and not too acidic. Skip the strong black tea or green tea versions unless your doctor gives the green light.

6. What is the best time to drink hot lemon tea?

The best time is either early morning on an empty stomach or in the evening when you need to unwind. I love sipping it after a long day when I need something warm, soothing, but not too heavy. If you’re drinking it for digestion or detox, mornings are ideal. If it’s for relaxation or cold relief, post-dinner or bedtime works beautifully too.

7. Can kids drink hot lemon tea?

Yes, but in a gentler version. Skip the tea leaves completely, and just go with warm water, a few drops of lemon juice, and a teaspoon of honey (only for kids above 1 year). It works wonders for cough and colds. Always serve it lukewarm, not hot, for kids.

Join the Conversation

  1. Hi..
    Nice.I am going to prepare lemon tea..i hope it will come out well.

    1. Go for it and do let me know how it turns out Jaya

  2. How gorgeous is your tea set!

  3. Lovely recipes and even more lovely pictures Deepali. You have a great sense of frame and light.
    May I ask which camera you are using? and which lens..for the close up food shots?

    I’m a beginner at food blogging..

    1. Thanks Mansi. I have recently upgraded to a dSLR – Canon 600D with 50mm (f/1.8) prime lens. http://lemoninginger.com/2014/04/15/food-photography-gear-camera-lens-image-processing-pc/

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