Sarah and I are big fans of herbal teas both for their delicious taste and endless, natural health benefits. Very rarely would we get together without a hot pot of tea brewing :). As we often recommend trying herbal teas to our clients, I thought I would share our top 4 herbal teas and why they are our favourites.
But, before I do, it’s interesting to know that, despite their name, herbal teas are not actually true teas. True teas, including Green tea (one of our favourites) and black tea are brewed from the leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant. On the other hand, herbal teas are made from dried fruits, flowers, spices or herbs. This is why herbal teas can come in a wide range of tastes and flavours.
So back to our favourites ‘teas’…
1. Green Tea
As we now know a ‘true’ tea, Green tea is a fantastic alternative for the black tea and coffee lovers out there, as it does have caffeine in it, a little less than coffee but enough to produce an effect, so a perfect morning beverage.
Not only does it taste great (although maybe not for everyone!), Green tea made our favourites list because it is loaded with antioxidants that have many health benefits, which may include improved brain function, protection against cancer (due it’s high level of antioxidants) and a reduced risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
So if you are looking to make the switch but worried about not having a little caffeine fix in the morning, then Green tea could be the one to go for.
2. Chamomile Tea
A tea that is most commonly known for its calming effects and is frequently used to promote a better night’s sleep. Studies have also shown that Chamomile may not only be useful as a sleep aid. It is also believed to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting effects.
Aiming for the ‘ideal’ 7-9 hours of sleep each night, which can vary from person to person, isn’t always easy for a number of reasons. So if you feel you are struggling to wind down in the evening and settle into a peaceful night’s sleep, a cup of Chamomile tea might be worth a go!
3. Peppermint Tea
One of the most commonly used herbal teas in the world, most popularly used to support the digestive tract health. Several studies have shown that Peppermint tea can help relieve indigestion, IBS, nausea and stomach pain. Peppermint oil in particular is believed to be effective at relaxing spasms in the intestines, oesophagus and colon.
So if you ever experience digestive discomfort, whether it be from cramping, nausea or indigestion, Peppermint tea is a great natural remedy to reach for.
4. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea, best known as a remedy for nausea, has lots of health benefits that may benefit women in particular.
Studies consistently find that Ginger is effective at relieving nausea in early pregnancy and it may also help relieve period pain. Two studies found Ginger to be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen at relieving period pain.
So if you find you reach for a warm comforting beverage when menstruating, why not try adding in a few slices of fresh Ginger to help ease discomfort.
There you have it, our 4 favourite comforting beverages, we hope you have found this helpful. Feel free to get in touch if you have any specific questions at all, we’d be happy to help.
Until next time,
To your health and happiness
Áine & Sarah x
