Herbal Teas and Their Health Benefits
Herbal teas as opposed to the popular green, black and oolong teas which come from the tea bush Carmellia sinensis are derived from different types of herbs. They are made by boiling various parts of different types of herbs such as the leaves, flowers, seeds and roots.
Herbal teas are popular for many centuries now not just for their taste and aroma but also for their medicinal benefits. They are generally low in calories and have no caffeine content which makes them an ideal beverage anytime of the day.
The following are some of the most popular herbal teas and their health benefits:
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is an herb popularly used in teas around the world. Drinking chamomile tea can help relieve indigestion as well as bloating. It is also good for people who become stressed as it can help calm their mind. And it is good for fighting insomnia too. So if you have a problem sleeping at night, just drink a cup of chamomile tea and see the result.
Hibiscus Flower Tea
Herbal tea from dried Hibiscus flowers makes an excellent beverage with many health benefits. It is known to help lower blood pressure and reduce the high cholesterol level in the body. Hibiscus is rich in Vitamin C which helps boost the immune system. It is also rich in antioxidant properties which protect the body from free radicals that can damage the cells.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is prepared by boiling the underground stem or root of a ginger plant. Ginger tea is known to have anti-inflammatory properties which can help people suffering from arthritis, muscle and joint pains. It can also relieve people experiencing nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Apart from its anti-inflammatory properties, it also has antioxidant properties which can fight free radicals. However, if you are taking warfarin or a similar medication, it is best to consult your doctor first before including ginger tea in your diet.
Lavender Tea
Lavender tea is made by boiling the dried flowers of a lavender shrub. A cup of lavender tea has a soothing effect to your body and mind. So if you are depressed or stressed out, drinking lavender tea will greatly help you to have clear mind. Lavender tea can also help people with sleeping disorders, bowel infections, colic, flatulence and upset stomach. Additionally, it can help reduce the body temperature of both children and adults suffering from fever.
Oregano Tea
Drinking Oregano tea which is prepared by boiling dried oregano leaves and flowers proves to have a number of health benefits. It can help relieve toothache, headache, slow digestion, menstrual cramps, nasal inflammation and symptoms of asthma. The strong aroma of oregano tea is also powerful in calming and relaxing the body and mind. It is good for people who are suffering from anxiety, tension and stress, not to mention that it can promote better sleep.
Moreover, the most popular health benefit of drinking oregano tea is in boosting the respiratory system. It can help in alleviating the symptoms of sinus, cold, fever, nasal congestion and cough.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint is an herb which makes a very fragrant tea. Apart from its sweet-smelling aroma, peppermint tea offers numerous health benefits. It is known to help relieve digestive issues such as upset stomach and indigestion. It can also aid motion sickness such as vomiting. It is also popularly used to alleviate muscle pain, nasal congestion, mild asthma and mild coughs. And most importantly, it can help make your breath fresh.
Rosemary Tea
Apart from its culinary uses, rosemary also makes a healthy and great-smelling tea. Rosemary contains antispasmodic properties which are beneficial to your muscles. It also aids in digestion, and helps relieve the symptoms of cough and asthma.
All the teas mentioned above are made from herbs that can be easily grown in your backyard or in a pot at home. Having any of these herbs at home allows you to make inexpensive teas that offer a lot of health benefits.