Black, green, red and white teas are made from tea leaves, and the difference lies in the way the leaves are processed. On the other hand, herbal teas are made from different parts of herbs, which are also common culinary ingredients. Examples of some herbs that make healthy teas are peppermint, rosemary, thyme, sage, jasmine, chamomile, Indian basil, lavender and stevia.
Tea is made from the berries, leaves, roots and seeds of these herbs. The tea is made by steeping a sprig or few leaves, or a teaspoon of dried herbs per cup of boiling water. Some herbs, like nettle can be boiled for a couple of minutes. Herbal tea is best consumed without milk and with a natural sweetener like honey, rather than sugar.
General Health Benefits of Herbal Teas
A major benefit of all herbal teas is that they are caffeine free. Apart from that, each herb has its unique benefits, and preventive and curative properties. Herbal teas are refreshing and energizing, boost immunity, prevent certain health problems and help to alleviate others. Moreover, they are beneficial as home remedies for common ailments.
Health Benefits of Rosemary, Thyme and Sage Tea
Rosemary is a popular ingredient in the kitchen, especially while cooking dishes like meat. As a tea, its flavor and aroma are soothing---it specially soothes the stomach, relaxes the muscles and calms the nerves. Rosemary increases the production of an enzyme that prevents cellular DNA from being damaged. It also has anti-cancer properties due to the presence of carnosol.
Another herb with culinary uses is thyme, but it is also popular as a tea. Thyme has a number of health benefits: it stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract, retards the growth of germs, removes dead skin and deep cleanses and reduces spots.
Thymol oil present in thyme is the ingredient used in commercial remedies for colds and coughs. Therefore, it is useful as a home remedy to alleviate colds and coughs, especially when they are symptoms of flu. In such a condition, two spoons of dried thyme can be used for a cup of water.
If there is a nagging cough, some sage can be added to the brew. Sage tea is beneficial in treating a sore throat and cough; it can be cooled and used as an effective gargle.
Health Benefits of Other Herbal Teas
Another tea which soothes a sore throat is peppermint. Moreover, it is an effective digestive. Teas made from anise and fennel prevent colds, boost the metabolism of the body and reduce stress.
Herbal teas that are soothing and reduce stress are made from jasmine, lavender and chamomile. Jasmine tea has a fragrant aroma, calms the nerves and soothes the stomach. Chamomile and lavender act as mild sedatives and encourage sleep. Saffron tea, on the other hand, induces a feeling of warmth and well being, especially in the winter cold.
The Holy Basil (called “tulsi” in India) has a number of uses and health benefits. Tulsi tea is a popular home remedy, as it is attributed with preventive and curative properties. It contains antioxidants, and therefore eliminates toxins, reduces stress and boosts stamina. It also improves digestion and lowers cholesterol. Tulsi tea with ginger and honey is a common remedy for colds and coughs.
Stevia tea is popular with diabetics, as it is a natural sweetener. It stimulates the appetite, keeps hunger pangs at bay, and yet, is calorie free!
All herbal teas have positive effects on the body, and encourage holistic well being, apart from being beneficial in certain conditions.Different teas like lavender and chamomile soothe and reduce stress, while those like thyme and sage are beneficial for colds and coughs. Replacing the usual tea with a cup of herbal tea reaps many health benefits.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Sources:
- Bakhru, H.K, “Herbs that Heal”, Orient Paperbacks, 2008.
- Foods that heal: Dr.Bernard Jensen, Health and Harmony publishers, 2004.
- http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/h/herb.htm
- http://www.aayurmed.co.in/herbal-teas.html
Nita Mukherjee - I have 25+ years of experience in education and tutoring in English, and 12+ years in writing. With a post graduate degree (B.Ed) in ...
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