HERBAL TEA
Despite the name, herbal teas are not actually made from the tea plant or tea leaves. Instead, they are made by steeping herbs, flowers, or roots. The origins of herbal tea date back to Ancient Egypt and Ancient China, used for thousands of years for its great taste and medicinal properties. Hence why there are so many health benefits of herbal tea.
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There are hundreds of different herbal teas you can drink, all with varying tastes and benefits. These benefits can range from treating a cold to relieving stress, to anti-aging properties. In addition, unlike other teas, herbal teas do not contain any caffeine. So, they are good to drink at any time of the day.
BENEFITS
Here is a list of common herbs and their benefits:
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Rosemary: An aromatic evergreen shrub, this herb is used in cuisines across the world, as well as cosmetics and body products. Studies have shown its medicinal benefits, including neuroprotective effects, pain relief, and helping with cognition and mood. With anti-inflammatory compounds and a dose of vitamin C, rosemary is great for immunity in cold and flu season.
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Sage: This herb has long been used in traditional medicine to protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage, as well as inflammation and infection. It’s a potent botanical with evidence for treating diseases such as depression, dementia, obesity, diabetes, lupus, heart disease, and cancer. Once again, this anti-inflammatory plant also delivers a great dose of vitamin C for immunity.
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Thyme: In thyme, you’ll find anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties. It, too, is a powerful botanical. Herbalists have relied on thyme especially for relieving respiratory issues, both because of its antibacterial properties and because it’s a great expectorant, clearing out mucus.
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Ginger: Another good source of antioxidants, ginger also helps your body deal with oxidative stress and adds potent anti-inflammatory benefits. Ginger can also help alleviate nausea when sick.
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Lavender: Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils used in aromatherapy. Distilled from the plant Lavandula angustifolia, the oil promotes relaxation and believed to treat anxiety, fungal infections, allergies, depression, insomnia, eczema, nausea, and menstrual cramps. It is also believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to heal minor burns and bug bites.
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Rose: Rose has natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and astringent properties, plus it is full of natural oils and Vitamin C, which hydrate and replenish dull, dry skin. Rose has been used and recommended for various ailments including; wounds, inflammation, skin health, women's health, stomach complaints, headache, dizziness, grief and heartache, and colds & flu.
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Cinnamon: Some studies have suggested that the compounds in cinnamon have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial properties, and that they might offer protection from cancer and cardiovascular disease, among other conditions. Cinnamon oil could play a role in treating this type of infection. Several research studies have suggested that cinnamon may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and cassia cinnamon may reduce blood sugar levels.
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Clove: Whether you eat it whole, ground, or as an oil extract. clove can be beneficial. Clove is good for bone health, temporary treatment for a toothache, helps balance blood sugar, and it's rich in antioxidants,
(Resources; hormonesbalance.com, motherearthliving.com, everydayroots.com, verywellmind.com, gardentherapy.ca, indigo-herbs.co.uk, mindbodygreen.com)