Herbal Tea - Healthy or Hype?
Herbal teas have become ‘de rigueuer’ for all of the medicinal qualities they are said to possess and many users of herbal teas swear by them. There are claims that they can help with everything from fighting colds and indigestion to fixing nausea and infection. But whether you drink it as a hot beverage to ward off Old Man Winter or iced to cool off on a hot summer day, tea is an invigorating drink that people around the world consume in copious amounts, and herbal teas are the piece de resistance .
Each Herbal tea has a different health benefit and we have selected a few to share with you:
Elderflower: - Excellent detox aid
The white blossom from the Elder tree is an effective decongestant because it helps clean the nasal passages. As the use of it encourages the body to sweat., elderflower is an excellent diaphoretic And Naturopaths believe that viruses are unable to breed in a raised body temperature. This sweating out of liquids may enhance liver function by eliminating metabolic waste. It may also help relieve allergies and asthma, along with treating fungal infections, rheumatism, toothaches and urinary tract disorders. . The herb is also an effective diuretic, laxative, and insect-repellent. Antioxidants, like those contained in elderflower, are essential to protecting the body from free radical damage
Lemon Verbena: Digestion and Weight Loss
Traditionally used as a digestive aid. This is because the citrus content helps to break down fats in the digestive tract. In some countries Lemon Verbena tea is sold as a weight-losing or slimming tea, and is effective in fighting cellulite. A cup of lemon verbena tea after a hard day is also relaxing and soothing on the nerves and refreshes a tired body. It also reduces muscle tension that often accompanies psychological stress. Sweeten with honey.
Ginger: Fights infection
Ginger is an excellent remedy in the early stages of an infection because, as a warming spice, it can promote a fever and hasten healing. Ginger's warming effects are also said to relieve rheumatic aches and pains by widening the blood vessels and stimulating circulation. It also helps relieve morning sickness. Women who suffer from painful menstrual cramps can find relief by drinking a few cups of ginger tea during their cycles because of its natural warming and anti-inflammatory properties in it. The tea has a golden color and warm spicy aroma and flavor
Chamomile: Relieves insomnia and stress
The small golden buds of chamomile give many people relief from mild insomnia. Chamomile is the principal ingredient in many 'sleepytime' tea blends. This is because chamomile contains tryptophan, an amino acid known for its tranquilizing effects. These natural sedative properties help calm and relax the body and mind so you can relieve your stress and get to sleep easier. Chamomile tea also helps sooth digestive issues causes by overeating, gas, heartburn, constipation, and diarrhea. People who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome can sometimes relieve their symptoms with a cup or two of chamomile tea a day because it soothes the intestinal walls. The tea is golden yellow with a sweet earthy apple taste and aroma Drink with honey or nectar
Green Tea: Anti-Aging
Japanese green tea leaves strengthen tissue cells found all over the body, and so protects the body from ageing. This is because green tea is high in antioxidants - compounds produced in the body that protect the cells from damage such as pollutants.
Thyme: Great for fighting Colds
Thyme contains volatile oils - constituents in the plant that protect it against virus and infection. When taken as an infusion, these properties act as a good decongestant for the chest in our bodies. Can also be used as mouth wash to treat sores or other infections. It is also an effective soak for treating athlete’s foot and other skin parasites.
Fennel: Colic and Flatulence
A Mediterranean herb that has anti-spasmodic properties. This means it works on relaxing the intestinal muscles and is particularly good for constipation, colic and flatulence. Fennel is also a good detox because it is a diuretic - meaning it creates the urge to urinate. This helps to clean the kidneys and so rid the body of impurities, which then promotes a clearer skin.
Peppermint: Relieves nausea and vomitting
By stimulating bile production in the gall bladder, peppermint breaks down fat in the digestion system, thus relieving nausea. A cup of peppermint tea helps ease the stomach and fight nausea away with its uplifting aroma. Peppermint tea is even excellent for treating and relieving heartburn after you have just had a hot spicy meal. light brownish color and a mint flavor and aroma
Ginseng: Fatigue
The reason ginseng is so good for fighting fatigue, the mind and relieving stress is because it contains substances in it called adaptogens. These help the body heal itself so it can have more energy to do what it is suppose to do. When you have more energy, you tend to be more, alert, active and happy. Ginseng root tea has a light yellowish color and an earth flavor and aroma. It is best to drink with honey and lemon.
Some people do have allergies to some of these herbs and some herbs can interact with a medication that you’re on. Please bear this in mind when drinking these teas or alternatively consult with your health practitioner first.
All Herbal teas should be used in moderation.
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