What are herbal teas?

Herbal teas are mostly single or blends of purely plant based infusions and decoctions inspired by a great need for natural remedies to a lot of ailments. Herbal teas have been around for thousands of years and have become popular in recent times as people search for alternative medicine to prevent and treat their illnesses in a more natural way. Traditions and cultures are also driving forces in the search for answers to their health issues hence an upward trend in health and wellness awareness.

There are so many different herbs and spices found in different parts of the world. With the current transport infrastructure and global business evolution, it is possible to get any type of herb from around the world either in its natural form or dried and ground into powder and packed in certain weights to accommodate all consumers.

What are the main components of herbal tea?

Herbal teas are made from 3 basic ingredients namely:

• Herbs
• Spices
• Fruits

Herbal teas are loved for their tropical aroma, taste and their believed medicinal properties.

Unlike the name, the herbal tea does not contain any “tea” which popularly is known as true tea or “Camellia Sinensis”. They are caffeine-free and so serve as a great refreshing alternative to the black, green, white and oolong teas.

Sources of herbal teas

The best herbal teas are made from various sources namely:

• Dry leaves
• Seeds
• Barks
• Grasses
• Flowers
• Nuts
• Roots

According to all other beverages, people’s tastes are diverse. The same case applies to the reasons why people take the drinks. However, general and crucial benefits draw people to use herbal teas. These include their distinct flavor, healing properties and refreshing aroma.

Uses of herbs and spices

Since creation, herbs and spices have been used for various amazing and interesting purposes. Such are:

1. In preparation of various delicious dishes (culinary arts) like cakes, curries, smoothies, etc.
2. As an ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and body lotions
3. As disinfectants
4. As antiseptics
5. As medicine
6. As hypnotizers
7. As spells used by witch doctors and herbalists.

Characteristics of herbal tea

More importantly is their characteristic properties listed as follows:

1. Anti-oxidants
2. Anti-inflammatory
3. Anti-diabetic
4. Anti-cancer
5. Anti-microbial
6. Anti-proliferate
7. Anti-glycation
8. Anti-malarial
9. Metabolic efficacy
10. Immunological efficacy

Each herb, spice and fruit has its medicinal properties so it’s advisable to take specific herbal drinks depending on the specific intended purpose. Let’s delve into various common herbs and the ailments they alleviate.

It’s also good to keep in mind that the efficacy of the beverage depends on the constituent of the plant, the preparation method and storage conditions.

Generally, all the herbal teas are made by soaking or brewing in hot water and then draining the residue.

Here is a short video about 20 beneficial herbal teas for the best health and well-being. https://www.youtube.com/@healthylivingtipsyt

 Properties of common herbs

1.  CHAMOMILE

This herb is well known for its strong flavor and aroma. It can be taken as a herbal tea, processed into skin lotions for beauty and in perfumes and toilet soaps for its antibacterial property.

In medicines, it is known to alleviate stomach upsets or flatulence, control blood sugar levels, treat lack of sleep or insomnia, reduce the feeling of anxiety

2. CINNAMON

This plant is very aromatic and tastes sweet. It is largely used for culinary purposes mostly in baked foods.It is also ground into powder and packed in teabags and used to brew delicious beverages.

Benefits:

• Cures skin problems like acne.
• Helps treat stomach problems like heartburn, indigestion, and nausea.
• Enhances metabolic processes and hence can manage Diabetes type 2.
• Has anti-bacterial properties and fights microbial elements in food.
• Has anti-carcinogenic and ani- inflammatory properties and so can kill pain.
• Used together with eucalyptus, it becomes a strong insect-repellant.
• Can treat eye problems like conjunctivitis.

3. HIBISCUS

Hibiscus is a strong-scented plant with beautiful red flowers found in many areas with tropical climates. It can be used as freshly made or dried or ground into powder to make a refreshing cup of tea.

Benefits

• Boosts the immune system thereby preventing symptoms of the common cold.
• Helps lower bad blood fats and blood pressure.
• Contains huge amounts of vit C and Iron.
• Fights inflammation.
• Enhances liver health
• Strong anti-oxidant.
• Acts as a natural detox in the body.

cons of hibiscus

4. GINGER

Ginger is more of a spice than a herb. Its plant is about 1m tall whose leaves are narrow and sharp. Ginger root can be used in various forms either fresh, dried or powdered. It is very high in Potassium.

It is used to prepare certain dishes like curries,  beverages including alcoholic drinks as a flavoring, smoothies and many more.

Benefits:

• Fights oral bacteria .
• Is anti-viral
• Can control hypertension symptoms.
• Anti-inflammatory and so reduces menstrual and joint pain.
• Reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Checks sinuses and throat congestion.
• Improves skin health.

5. PEPPERMINT

Peppermint is an aromatic plant common in the wild. It was indigenous in Europe and the Middle East but it is now found in most parts of the world.

It is a crossbreed or hybrid between a water mint and a spearmint and can be taken as fresh tea or dried. Peppermint can be processed into tinctures, chest rubs, creams, lotions and consequently used in sweets as breath fresheners and candies.

Benefits:

• Treats gastro-intestinal problems like flatulence, diarrhea,
• The presence of menthol in peppermint reduces symptoms of the common cold.
• Microbial compounds found in the plant speed up the healing of wounds.
• Used in mouthwash to prevent the formation of biofilm which causes cavities and bad breath.
• Has antiseptic and anti bacterial properties which when used in massage oils, shampoo and body lotion, can kill germs and body lice thereby preventing skin irritations and itchiness.
• Helps to reduce nausea to persons undergoing chemotherapy.
• Has anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce joint pain in people with arthritis.

6. JASMINE

Jasmine is a plant belonging to the olive family. It grows in tropical and warm climates especially. Africa and Eurasia. This plant has over 200 species.

Benefits:

• It helps to boost or strengthen the immune system.
• Lowers high blood pressure and blood cholesterol.
• Boosts metabolism thereby helping in weight loss.
• Strengthens the immune system, promotes quick healing of wounds, and fights bacterial infections.
• It treats insomnia and helps with cognitive functions.
• It is anti-inflammatory and so relieves joint pain especially related to arthritis.

7. TUMERIC

Tumeric is a bright yellow-orange plant belonging to the ginger family whose botanical name is Curcuma longa. Its herbaceous rhizome is used as a remedy for various ailments and thrives in climates of between 20-30ºC.

In native India, this plant is AKA “the spice of life”

Benefits:

• Used in curries and soups as a flavoring and coloring agent.
• Relieves metabolic disorders and therefore relieves flatulence.
• Plays a crucial role in as a detox or blood purifier.
• Boosts speedy healing of wounds and sores.
• It is anti-inflammatory, so it reduces pain like menstrual pain, peptic ulcers, arthritis as well as prevent cancer.
• Prevents and controls growth of ringworms.

Here is a good read about tumeric and 7 of its benefits from herbs natural:

https://www.herbsnatura.com/

8. LEMON GRASS

Lemongrass is a perennial citrusy-tasting lemony-scented versatile plant. Its botanical name is Cymbopogon citratus and is native to Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, it is currently grown in many regions around the world with tropical and subtropical climates.

It is commonly used for various uses such as:

1. Naturally used together with other herbs to prepare a refreshing cup of herbal tea or vegetable smoothies.
2. Used in marinades for pork, chicken and fish for extra flavour.
3. Used in curries soups and sauces.
4.  Used as an essential oil, ointment and lotion.

Benefits:

• Controls high blood pressure.
• Crucial in fighting oral bacteria.
• Treats symptoms of fever and common colds.
• Are antifungal and so treats skin infections.
• Are very good hydrants due to their high level of water content.
• Aids in food metabolism.
• Are anti-inflammatory of which helps to reduce pain related to arthritis or rheumatism.

To read more about lemon grass, you can check out very helpful information including the results of taking too much of it.

https://www.health.com/

9. SAGE

Sage is a fragrant aromatic evergreen plant with blue purplish flowers whose botanical name is Salvia Officinalis. there are over 1000 species of sage plants but generally have the same properties. Sage also belongs to the mint family together with Oregano, Basil, Thyme and Rosemary( a very popular spice extensively used in culinary arts)

Sage is Indigenous to the Mediterranean region. it can be used fresh or dried or as an essential oil.

Benefits:

• It controls and promotes bowel movement hence preventing diarrhea.
• Due to its high level of mineral content, it helps build strong bones.
• Helps to lower bad cholesterol and controls blood sugar levels.
• Its a powerful anti-oxidant and so enhances immunity.
• It boosts memory and brain health.
• Due to its microbial property, it helps to maintain good oral health.
• It acts as a natural insect repellant and killer
• Used by ritualists in smudging.

Read more about the nutritive value of sage to the Daily Recommended Intake here:

https://www.healthline.com/

10. POMEGRANATE

In the whole wide world, this fruit is unmatched in its nutritious and medicinal properties. It is also known as Punica granatum and thrives both indoors and outdoors. It is greatly acknowledged and valued as mentioned by the Quran as the Fruit of Paradise. In the ancient history of the Iranian people, they believed it was the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden and not the apple as popularly believed.

Pomegranate is eaten raw either alone or mixed with other fruits to form a sweet and juicy salad.

Here are the healthy benefits according to http://www.irishfilmnyc.com/2021/03/benefits-of-pomegranate-peel-juice.html

OUR RECOMMENDATION

To brew an excellent cup of herbal tea to fit your intended purpose, purchase your preferred herb or spice, boil water in a deep saucepan, infuse the herb/spice in whichever form(dried, Powdered, or fresh), cover with a tight lid and let it stand for 10-15 minutes. Drain the flavored drink and enjoy hot or cold. Add your sweetener or honey to taste.

For more detailed information about herbs and spices for health and cosmetic benefits, visit https://www.webmd.com/

For healthy herbal recipes, check out these 50 DIY easy to prepare herbal teas from healthy living:

https://nofussnatural.com/category/healthy-living/