I love tea. Not only for the slough of flavors that are out there for us to try; but for their health benefits too. It does helps that I am a huge believer in herbs and their ability to heal and tea is an extension of that.
So without further ado…here is a list of my favorites.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is one of the most commonly used herbal teas in the world. It’s easy to understand why—chamo-mile tea has a calming, soothing effect that can be felt almost immediately after consuming it. Chamomile tea has many benefits and uses. It was the first tea I was introduced to and the first one I grab whenever I feel sick, down, or just need something warm. The benefit that makes it stand out from other herbal teas is its ability to help you sleep better at night. If you have trouble falling asleep due to stress or anxiety, or if your stomach keeps you up late at night because of indigestion or menstrual cramps, then chamomile tea is your go-to. Additionally, there are many beauty products that include some form of chamomile which helps with acne; this means drinking chamo-mile tea could potentially have a positive effect on your skin as well!
Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is popular for a number of uses, and it can be enjoyed both hot or cold. Some people favor this blend because it has a cooling effect when you drink it. The menthol in the peppermint helps to relax the digestive tract muscles. This makes digestion easier, reduces pain, and relieves stomach issues. In addition to treating indigestion, peppermint tea has been used to treat headaches and migraines because the menthol improves blood flow in the head. Other medicinal benefits of this tea include reducing fever, helping with menstrual cramps, possibly helping with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), possibly helping with cold symptoms (nasal congestion), and potentially helping with nausea.
Green tea
It’s no secret that green tea has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, but now it’s making a splash as a go-to drink for health enthusiasts. While many herbal teas have health benefits, green tea is especially rich in antioxidants like catechins, which can help protect your body from free radicals and fight off diseases. Plus, it’s delicious.
Ginger tea
Ginger is known for its ability to reduce nausea, which can be a great help for those who are prone to motion sickness. It can also help with nausea during pregnancy. Ginger tea is known to add zing and zest to your digestive system and may even provide relief from inflammation issues. If you’re suffering from a cold, ginger tea has been reported to be helpful in relieving congestion and sore throat symptoms. Some even believe that it can help soothe muscle pain due to exercise.
Lavender tea
Lavender tea is a popular herbal tea used for relaxation and sleep. Lavender flowers are combined with chamomile and other ingredients to make calming teas. There are many benefits of lavender tea, including reducing stress, improving sleep quality, fighting depression, boosting circulation, preventing infection, relieving pain, and even increasing cognitive function.
Raspberry leaf tea
When you think of herbal teas, raspberry leaf tea likely isn’t the first one that comes to mind. But it should be! Raspberry leaf tea is caffeine free and can help to relieve menstrual cramps. The best part? There are no side effects of raspberry leaf tea (unlike most medications).
Raspberry leaf tea is also a good source of iron, calcium and magnesium, which are all essential nutrients for maintaining good health. And if you’re pregnant, raspberry leaf tea can help to ease the morning sickness that often accompanies this very special time in your life.
Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus is known as a cooling, soothing, and revitalizing herb. Drink it as a hot tea or cold as a herbal iced tea. Add honey or sugar for sweetness! Served hot or iced, hibiscus tea is high in vitamin C and minerals, making it one of the best herbal teas you can drink.
Plus, hibiscus is full of antioxidants! Antioxidants are believed to help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals–unstable molecules that can cause harm when they build up in the body. The antioxidant content in beverages like hibiscus tea have been linked to lower risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer.
Tea is a gentle way to introduce herbs into your diet.
You can drink herbal teas any time of day, but they’re especially nice as a morning ritual after breakfast. But if you don’t want to give up your liquid courage aka coffee long term, try drinking tea instead of coffee for a week and see how you feel. Herbal teas are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that work wonders on the body and mind. Whether you’re trying to kick caffeine or just want to refresh your routine, these tasty flavors will do the trick.
Until next time, namaste.
x, Dijana
