Seven types of tea and their health benefits
Tea is a much-loved beverage consumed globally. Different cultures and countries have their own adaptations of tea preparation. Some people prefer milk in their tea, whilst others prefer simply water. So in the vast variety of options available to us, what types of tea are great for your health?
Green tea
One of the most advocated types of tea by health experts, green tea has a wealth of health benefits that can be reaped from regular consumption. One of the main benefits of green tea is that it speeds up our basal metabolic rate, which aids weight loss. The tea contains polyphenols and antioxidants, which have a protective effect for some types of cancer including bowel, bladder, and stomach cancer. Green tea has potent anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce the risk of age-related arthritis, diabetes and high cholesterol.
Link to how to make green tea.
Ginger tea
Ginger tea has been widely consumed for its medicinal properties in various cultures. In addition to being a calming beverage, it helps aid sweating and loss of body heat which can be helpful in conditions which raise body temperature (such as the common cold). It helps alleviate symptoms of nausea and sickness and can be a beneficial remedy in managing nausea during early pregnancy. It has an anti-inflammatory effect on the digestive system and can be beneficial in reducing cramps in bowel conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Link to how to make ginger tea.
Lavender tea
Lavender is valued for its calming and soothing effects. A cup of lavender tea before bedtime can improve quality of sleep, reduce insomnia and create a calm state of mind. This is especially useful for individuals who suffer from excessive worrying or anxiety type symptoms – lavender tea has a potent anxiolytic effect. It is involved in hormonal modulation that generates feelings of calm and peace.
Link to how to make lavender tea.
Black tea
Black tea is a delicious beverage that is consumed in copious amounts, especially in countries in South-East Asia. Best consumed with milk, black tea has a host of antioxidants that may protect individuals from heart disease. Black tea has also been shown to have positive effects on blood pressure. Some of its properties also contribute to lowering overall cancer risk.
Link to how to make black tea.
Lemon tea
Lemon, a citrus fruit rich in Vitamin C, is particularly beneficial for immunity and our body’s response to infection. Consuming a glass of warm lemon tea in the morning can help regulate our body’s metabolism and provide a healthy start to our day. It also has a powerful detoxification effect, so it is a perfect cleansing beverage after holidays or periods of eating heavy food (e.g. festivals or family gatherings).
Link to how to make lemon tea.
Peppermint tea
Peppermint tea is a form of tea with a wide variety of health benefits. It reduces stomach cramps and the sensation of bloating. This makes it particularly useful in conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. It has the effect of clearing our sinuses (air-filled spaces in our face) that can reduce discomfort and symptoms associated with sinusitis such as facial tenderness, sore throat and a blocked nose. Peppermint tea increases our baseline energy levels, which is perfect for individuals experiencing symptoms of lethargy or fatigue.
Link to how to make peppermint tea.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is a one-stop cure for several health problems including anxiety, period pains, insomnia and troublesome skin. It is rich in antioxidants that can boost skin glow. The antiseptic properties also contribute to reducing the severity of acne, helping you obtain a more even complexion. The most well-known benefits of chamomile tea is that it alleviates stress, helping you relax and rewind after a long day of work.
Link to how to make chamomile tea.
Sources:
“13 Benefits Of Chamomile Tea For Skin, Hair And Overall Health: Drink Up!” NDTV Food, 22 Aug. 2018, food.ndtv.com/food-drinks/13-incredible-chamomile-tea-benefits-drink-up-1629069.
Fletcher, Jenna. “Peppermint Tea: Health Benefits, How Much to Drink, and Side Effects.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 22 May 2019, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325242#how-much-to-drink.
Elumeze, Justina. “Benefits of Lemon Tea.” HuffPost, HuffPost, 7 Dec. 2017, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/benefits-of-lemon-tea_b_10125970.
Megan Ware, RDN. “Green Tea: Health Benefits, Side Effects, and Research.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 28 Mar. 2017, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269538#side_effects_and_risks.
Breus, Michael. “The Relaxing, Sleep-Promoting, Health-Boosting Powers Of Lavender.” Your Guide to Better Sleep, 7 Aug. 2018, thesleepdoctor.com/2018/08/07/the-relaxing-sleep-promoting-health-boosting-powers-of-lavender/.
Cover photo: Photo by Alice Pasqual on Unsplash