From ginger to ginseng tea, there are an increasing number of herbal teas hitting the supermarket shelves. With promises of improved health and age-defying properties, it is getting harder to determine which herbal tea can offer the best ingredients for the consumer and separating the truth from fad and fiction.
Healing Herbal Teas
Fennel Tea
Treating ailments such as constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion, urinary disorders and coughs, drinking fennel tea has a number of healing properties. It has even more uses when served cold and can be used as an eye lotion for puffy or itchy eyes. It can also help bruising, problem skin and dental problems, such as gum disease and bad breath.One of the best teas for PMS, fennel tea is also said to reduce cellulite. For new mums, it increases the flow of breast milk and can be used in gripe water to help babies suffering from colic or flatulence.
Ginger Tea
Amongst other benefits, the ingredients of this strongly flavoured tea relieves rheumatic pain by widening blood vessels and boosting circulation. It can also ease stomach pains, help the digestive system, reduce inflammation and reduce the symptoms of cold and flu. It is also noted for healing infections early.
Nettle Tea
The roots and leaves are rich in minerals and make nettle tea a good source of iron, calcium and silica. These ingredients combined can increase energy levels and strengthen bones, teeth and hair.Other health benefits include; healing coughs and asthma, prevention against intestinal disorders, helping problem skin and fighting urinary tract infections.
Chamomile Tea
The tryphophen ingredient contains relaxing properties which can help sufferers of sleep deprivation. It is also understood to boost the immune system, act as a nerve relaxant and help other ailments, such as colds, stomach ache, back discomfort and menstrual pain.
Green Tea
Full of antioxidants, helping reduce the risk of cancer, green tea also contains anti-aging ingredients. Recent research has shown that drinking green tea can also reduce cholesterol, boost metabolism and prevent tooth decay. However, unlike many other herbal teas, it does contain a small amount of caffeine.
Peppermint Tea
A refreshing tea, served both hot and cold, peppermint tea boasts a number of healing properties. The ingredients can treat irritable bowel syndrome, aid digestion and combat bad breath. It can also stimulate bile production in the gall bladder which breaks down fat and helps both nausea and vomiting. Other benefits include easing muscle tension, stress and symptoms of asthma.
Rooibos Tea
Caffeine-free and low in tannin, Rooibos tea so can be enjoyed by pregnant and breastfeeding women. Ingredients can help ease headaches, nerves and insomnia. It can also help colic and stomach pains in babies. Asthma and eczema sufferers may also benefit from the many ingredients. Other nutritional supplements found in this tea include iron, potassium, calcium and alpha-hydroxy.
Drinking Herbal Tea for the First Time?
While some herbal teas have been consumed for centuries, they can only work as part of a healthy diet. Boasting properties which prevent and protect against illness and improve the body, inside and out, tea drinkers should always research the product for any possible side-effects. And, like any beverage, herbal teas should be consumed in moderation.
Sources
Internet Health Library,*"Herbal Teas Reference Guide" (February 2010)
Medical Coding Training Online, *"Why Are Herbal Teas Good For You" (May 2010)
Natural Herbs Guide, *"Natural Herbal Teas for Health and Wellbeing" (April 2010)
Daily Mail, *"The True Benefits of Herbal Tea" (May 2010)
Wikipedia,* "Herbal Tea" (April 2010)
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