Herbal tea is such a wholesome and delicious drink packed with nutrients and antioxidants. It is a concoction made from the leaves, fruits, flowers, bark, or roots of any edible, non-tea plant. Some people like to add spices like cinnamon, ginger, and mint into the mix. In some parts of the world, particularly in Europe, herbal teas are commonly referred to as tisanes. 

There are lots of health contributions with drinking herbal teas, with every variety offering different benefits.  The caffeine contents also vary with every kind of plant parts used. But normally, they are caffeine-free, making them a popular choice to drink later in the afternoon, or evening before bedtime. Some people also prefer to drink it in the morning over coffee because it gives them a surge of energy that lasts during the day.

Stellar Herb Teas worth Giving a Try

There are many kinds of herbal teas to choose from, each one with their unique flavors and benefits. Below are five kinds that you should try for their fantastic effect on your health and general well-being.

Chamomile Tea

It is an herbal infusion derived from the dried flowers of the chamomile plant. Early Egyptians used it as a strewing herb for its fragrant, relaxing, and stress-relieving qualities. As an herbal tea, we can say the very same traits about it!

Chamomile tea promotes better sleep quality. Besides, it also helps lower blood sugar due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help soothe your stomach and alleviate menstrual pain. It can prevent damage to your pancreas, allowing it to work better in releasing insulin into your body to keep blood sugar level under control. It is also suitable for your heart fitness and immunity. 

A word of caution: If you are allergic to any plants related to daisy, like chamomile, this drink might not be advisable for you. Anyway, there are many other herbal drinks you can enjoy, read on for more.

Hibiscus Tea

Beautiful as it is beneficial, the hibiscus is one versatile plant. Its flowers are steeped or brewed before enjoying the exotic crimson-tinged tea drink. It has a cranberry-like tart flavor, but it can be sweetened with a bit of honey or sugar. It is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids.

Hibiscus tea is known to normalize blood pressure. It also aids digestion, supports healthy kidney, and helps keep blood sugar in check. It has a laxative effect on your body, and it is said to help with weight management.

A word of caution: Avoid drinking hibiscus tea if you are taking diuretic medication like hydrochlorothiazide, and aspirin as well.

Rose Hip Tea

Rosehip tea comes from steeped fruit of rose plants, which are found just beneath the petals. It has a slightly sweet, tangy, and floral flavor. Its delicate taste and health benefits are being enjoyed by many for centuries.

Moreover, rosehip tea does not only promote beautiful, clear skin due to its high antioxidant and vitamin C contents. Studies actually found that it has anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. It helps improve a healthy immune system and provides arthritic pain relief.

A word of caution: Rosehip tea may not be ideal for individuals taking lithium drug. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to avoid drinking this herbal tea.

Echinacea Tea

In the North American region, this tea is celebrated for its ability to fight off, or shorten the common cold. It is made from purple coneflowers and sometimes including the leaves and stems. It has a refreshing and aromatic floral taste.

As with other herbal teas, Echinacea tea boasts of antioxidants, which helps boost immunity and fight infections. It also helps relieve pain and manage anxiety attacks.

A word of caution: This drink may cause an allergic reaction to some people. Pregnant women and individuals with digestive issues are also advised to consider other herbal teas instead of this.

Sage Tea

Sage tea is a refreshing herbal tea that has a mix of minty and floral flavor with a slightly bitter aftertaste. It is made by steeping the leaves of the common sage plant in the mint family.

Drinking sage tea can soothe nerves and help you relax. It also helps improve concentration. Study shows that this tea can help ease menopause symptoms. It also protects the heart and may help manage diabetes. It is rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body. It soothes the throat too.

A word of caution: Sage tea may cause an allergic reaction to some individuals. Its estrogen-like effect can also affect pregnant and breastfeeding women.

How about you – what’s your cup of tea of your choice?