Popular Types of Herbal Tea and Their Benefits

Tea is one of the oldest and most popular hot beverages among people. They have been drinking it for thousands of centuries not only for its tastiness and pleasant aroma but also for its numerous health benefits. Generally speaking, drinking tea is good for the immune system, excellent in fighting inflammation and great in preventing heart diseases and even cancer. 

While some have more health benefits than others, regularly drinking tea can certainly improve your lifestyle and well-being. Green, white and black varieties certainly are popular among people, but such a list cannot be complete without mentioning the different types of herbal tea.

What Is Herbal Tea?

An interesting fact about this beverage is that it isn’t made from leaves or leaf buds, but from tisanes which are blends of dried fruits, spices, herbs or flowers. The things that make herbal tea so popular are its health-promoting properties and medical effects that have been used as natural remedies for centuries.

The main benefit of this hot beverage is that it doesn’t contain any caffeine. Instead of causing anxiety, upset stomach or diarrhoea (which can happen from consuming teas with higher caffeine content), herb teas are known for their calming effects. 

Popular Types and Their Benefits

Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the most popular and favoured types of tea. This tea is known for its calming properties which is why it’s perfect for being consumed before bedtime. It’s even used in facial mists for reducing inflammation. 

This tea is made from the Chamomile herb taken from the flowers of the Asteraceae plant family containing a variety of bioactive phytochemicals like flavonids. The flavonoids, on the other hand, act as antioxidants which is beneficial for the body. It also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium, folate, carotene and more, so it isn’t strange that people have been using it since ancient times for treating several health conditions.

Some studies show that this tea may lower the risks of heart disease. They also show that chamomile is great in supporting the immune system and can protect the body against some forms of cancer. Given the fact that this tea has calming, anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety effects, it makes it the perfect choice for those suffering from stress and anxiety, and can also soothe premenstrual symptoms.

Hibiscus

This drink is made from dried calyx – the part of the hibiscus plant that protects the bloom, offering a range of benefits thanks to its antioxidants and small amounts of potassium, magnesium, calcium and traces of minerals. Given the fact that this amazing tea contains anthocyanins which is a powerful antioxidant, it is said that it offers antiviral and cardiovascular benefits. 

Hibiscus tea is also great in reducing bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as lowering blood pressure. Just keep in mind that it may negatively react with some medications like diuretics and aspirin. With that in mind, it’s best to consult with your doctor before taking it.

Ginger

The first thing that comes to mind when mentioning ginger is its anti-nausea properties. With a spicy and full-bodied flavour, this remedy contains antioxidant gingerol which is the main bioactive-fighting compound. It also has some vitamins like B3, B6, vitamin C, iron and potassium.

Ginger tea is great for boosting the immune system and combating inflammation, as well as treating any nausea, pain, inflammation and metabolic syndromes. It is said that this warm beverage may also help slow blood clotting, so it is of vital importance for you to be cautious if you’re taking anticoagulant drugs.

Rooibos

Rooibos tea is a herbal caffeine-free beverage that is associated with numerous health benefits obtained thanks to the huge range of antioxidants in its core. In other words, it is packed with health-promoting antioxidants that can improve blood pressure and blood circulation. It also helps in boosting good cholesterol while lowering the bad one. Studies show that this tea can even improve the skin’s texture, keep the hair strong and provide relief from some allergies.

Is It Okay to Drink Herbal Tea Daily?

Generally speaking, drinking it daily is considered safe, only if done moderately. However, you should avoid drinking specific teas of this kind if you take anti-coagulants for instance, have an upset stomach or if you’re allergic to its ingredients. Other than that, you are free to drink it daily.