Herbal teas have been around for centuries and for good reason. For years teas made from the Camellia sinensis plant and teas made from dried fruits, flowers, spices, and herbs have been used as natural remedies to cure a number of ailments. Modern science can confirm that these people were onto something. Not only are there a number of health benefits when it comes to herbal teas, but they are a great substitute for sugary drinks. Whether you’re looking to calm an upset stomach, soothe a sore throat, or just kick the afternoon soda, we’ve got a beginner’s guide to tea that will help you find the perfect brew for you.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is super common and most people opt to drink it to support a healthy digestive tract, but the benefits of peppermint tea don’t stop there. Peppermint tea also has antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. In regards to a healthy digestive tract, studies have found that peppermint tea can relieve indigestion, nausea, and stomach pain, as well as relax spasms in the intestines, esophagus, and colon, and help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. So if you suffer from frequent tummy issues or find yourself down with the stomach ick, make sure to have some peppermint tea on hand.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is vibrant pink-red in color and the taste is refreshing but tart this tea can be enjoyed hot or cold. Hibiscus tea has been shown to have a positive effect on high blood pressure and researchers have found that hibiscus tea can also lower stress levels. There is also a good chance you’ve heard this tea called beauty tea, and this is because the high mucilage content of hibiscus enhances the body’s ability to retain moisture, which in turn gives us that youthful glow.
Echinacea Tea
It’s always a good idea to have some echinacea tea on hand because it is said that this tea prevents and shortens the common cold. Evidence has also found that echinacea may also boost the immune system, giving your body what it needs to fight off other diseases that may come your way. If the common cold has already gotten the best of you, echinacea tea will at least keep the sniffles under control and soothe your sore throat.
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm tea is not only light and delicious, but it has several healing properties about it. A study found that those who regularly drank lemon balm tea actually improved the elasticity of their arteries. Another study found that radiology workers who drank lemon balm tea on the regular increased their body’s natural antioxidant enzymes. Lemon balm tea has also been shown to improve mood and mental performance, reduce stress and improve processing skills.