Herbal teas have been used by humans for thousands of years for medicinal purposes, blending herbs and spices with fruits and flowers in differing variations, depending on what ailment needs treatment. Classically, tea is made using Camellia Sinensis leaves. This plant provides the basis of all black and green teas including oolong, and while being one of the most popular drinks in the world, actual health benefits beyond relaxation and refreshment are little. Let’s take a look at some of the teas with the most reviving, antioxidant properties!
Rooibos Tea
A product originating in South Africa, Rooibos tea is made from the leaves of the red bush plant Aspalathus Fabaceae, and is slowly becoming more popular in other countries as news of its health benefits spread. Many studies have been done regarding what the South Africans say about this drink and two of these show very interesting evidence. Rooibos tea may help bone health and assist the prevention of heart disease. Preliminary results suggest a stimulation of the cells involved in bone density and growth, while inhibiting enzymes that cause constriction in blood vessels very similar to blood pressure medication.
Kratom Tea
Native to Indonesia and the surrounding areas of Southeast Asia, Kratom Tea is made from the leafy plant Mitragyna Speciosa and you’ll find workers across Thailand and Malaysia chewing on these leaves as they toil in the Asian heat. Kratom is still quite unknown outside of the area, but its benefits are creating word of mouth reviews that are carrying news of this tea further afield. Broken down into origin and color of leaf categories, different compounds of Kratom offer myriad benefits depending on your needs. Drinking Kratom tea regularly is shown to reduce anxiety and improve sociability as well as boost productivity.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is perhaps the most ancient, natural medicine known to man. Used for millennia, the Asteraceae plant has two common varieties, Recutita and Nobilis coming from Germany and Italy respectively. The benefits of Chamomile are numerous, from aiding sleep to lowering symptoms of depression it’s easy to see why humans have held onto this tradition while medicine advances around us. Studies in rodents found evidence that Chamomile helps fight ulcers and diarrhea with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and liver protecting effects. Women in general also benefit immensely, with research finding reductions in the symptoms of PMS, diabetes and insomnia.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus is another plant well ingrained in the traditions of humanity. Found throughout the world in warm climates, the bright flowers of Hibisceae Malvaceae make a lovely pinky red tea blend that is served hot or cold. It has antiviral properties that prove highly effective when dealing with sick birds as well as people. Studies show positive effects on high blood pressure and that it can decrease stress in males in particular. With its strong ruby shades and unique tart flavor, hibiscus tea is a more palatable herbal blend but if you are already on prescribed medication, especially diuretics or aspirin, it’s best to consult your doctor before drinking regularly.
Herbals teas are a natural alternative to the sugary, calorie heavy beverages available on the market today. With so much research being done to improve our overall diets and lifestyle, more and more benefits are being discovered at a regular pace. Consider ginger or peppermint tea for tummy ache or indigestion. Rosehip is high in vitamin C and can reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis. As modern science begins to validate the powerful properties of tea, sit back and enjoy any of the above while reaping the benefits!
