Hey all!
I've been drinking hot lemon tea for years to help with singing. I think I've been hooked on the stuff since I was about 12, LOL! For the same reason, I've never been fond of the British tradition of cream in tea - because it tends to clog the throat.
But my husband introduced me to Twinings Earl Grey - and I'm an addict! I actually like Lady Grey a little better, because I love the extra citrus flavor. And a local tea shop (Teavanna) sells a brand called Earl Grey Creme that is just heavenly.
Chamomile is very soothing for a scratchy throat, although it doesn't necessarily help "heal" from a cold. I believe the mint teas have the best healing properties (if I remember correctly). And then honey also has healing benefits, so sweetening with honey instead of sugar is beneficial.