Hakim Hayat
Herbal teas are said to be steeped in various benefits, from detoxifying the body and reducing stress to aiding digestion and boosting cognitive function.
Drinking tea is often associated with calming, soothing effects. People who are sensitive to coffee’s high caffeine content and feel too jittery or anxious from it often choose tea as their alternative.
In fact, stress-related hormones like cortisol can be counteracted with tea.
Research is still ongoing, but there are some studies supporting tea’s ability to reduce the risk of developing depression or dementia. These powerful anti-oxidants will also help blood pressure and fight off free radicals, keeping you healthy physically and mentally.
Here are nine delicious herbal brews to consider trying:
ROOIBOS TEA
Primarily grown in South Africa, rooibos contains alpha hydroxy acid, anti-oxidants and minerals like potassium, calcium and manganese.
The caffeine-free drink is said to lower blood pressure, alleviate joint pain, burn belly fat and keep blood sugar levels in check. It also has anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties. Brew the red tea in boiling water and let it stand for five to 10 minutes.
One can also add honey and lemon juice.
CHAMOMILE TEA
The medicinal herb is loaded with flavonoids, anti-oxidants, Vitamin A and minerals (calcium, fluoride, etc).
The golden brew fights insomnia, reduces stress, manages blood sugar levels and relieves menstrual cramps. Like many other herbal teas, it also has anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dried chamomile flowers are used to make this soothing brew.
GREEN TEA
Green tea is packed with tonnes of anti-oxidants. You don’t have to be worried about feeling tired either, since they contain a good amount of caffeine.
A favourite with tea drinkers everywhere, green tea has been praised for its medicinal properties for years. Some recent studies have confirmed some of these benefits, suggesting that green tea may protect various aspects of our health.
LEMONGRASS TEA
Lemongrass is an excellent source of Vitamin C, folate, anti-oxidants, potassium and magnesium.
The citrusy brew is said to help alleviate stress, improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol and promote weight loss. Lemongrass tea is also said to help beef up the immune system, treat insomnia and detoxify organs like liver and kidneys.
Both dried or fresh lemongrass can be used to make this tea. One should let it steep in boiling water for 10 minutes, then add a couple of lemon slices once the tea is ready.
DANDELION TEA
Dandelions are packed with antioxidants, vitamins (A, B6, C and K) and minerals such as calcium and iron.
Dandelion tea is said to help regulate blood sugar levels, aid digestion, fight inflammation and stimulate weight loss. It also acts as a natural diuretic and blood purifier. The plant’s roots, stem and flowers can be used prepare this light tisane.
One can add chopped dandelions to water and bring it to boil, and steep for five to 10 minutes before straining it into a cup.
PEPPERMINT TEA
The minty herb is a good source of vitamins A and C, iron, copper, calcium and manganese.
Peppermint tea is said to help reduce stress, fights sinus, relieves menstrual cramps and helps you sleep better. It also improves focus, boosts digestion and strengthens the immune system.
GINGER ROOT TEA
Ginger is full of nutrients such as Vitamin C, potassium, phosphorus and gingerol (a compound with anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties).
Ginger tea is a great stress reliever, and also fights free radicals, treats indigestion and facilitates fat burn.
THYME TEA
The herb boasts nutrients including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, protein, iron, calcium and magnesium.
Thyme tea is known for treating sore throat, bronchitis, colic and arthritis. It also enhances memory and stimulates the production of white blood cells.
LAVENDER TEA
Just the smell of lavender alone can put one’s mind at ease. It’s been used to treat depression and anxiety as an essential oil and extract, and studies from Germany found it to be as effective as other pharmaceuticals for anxiety and depression without the downside of drowsy side effects.
Stabilising the mood and promoting sleep are only some of the benefits of lavender tea. It tastes as amazing as it smells.
Even though they’re nutrient-dense, herbal teas may trigger side effects in some cases. For example, chamomile tea should be avoided if you have severe allergies. Similarly, if you are taking any medicine, drinking dandelion tea might interfere with your medication. It is advisable to consult your physician beforehand to ensure that the herbal preparation is safe for you to consume.
