As we approach the winter season, colds and coughs can start to feel inevitable. But fighting minor illnesses or ailments can actually be done more holistically with things like herbal tea. From the sniffles and sore throats to poor digestion and cramps, tea can be an effective, natural remedy for reducing symptoms of many different ailments. Let’s spill the tea on which teas have the benefits you’re looking for!
A Brief History
Although herbal teas are gaining popularity as a natural, trendy way to find healing, the use of tea for its restorative properties actually dates back to Ancient China. The Chinese emperor, Shennong, is believed to be one of the first discoverers of the restorative properties of tea leaves as well as the founder of Chinese medicine.
Teas and Their Benefits
Chamomile
Whether you’re a tea drinker or not, most people have at least heard of chamomile tea. It’s most commonly known for its calming effect which is associated with improvement in sleep quality. But some believe that chamomile tea can also reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome as well as inflammation.
Struggling to fall asleep after a stressful day of classes, work, meetings or a combination of all three? Chamomile tea could be just what you need!
Peppermint
Popular across the globe, peppermint tea is best known for its benefits to digestion. It’s believed that peppermint can help soothe nausea, indigestion and stomach pain caused by cramping or general indigestion.
Stomach pain after a big (and delicious) dinner out with friends? Peppermint tea is here to save the night!
Ginger
Similar to peppermint tea, ginger tea contains antioxidants that help soothe nausea as well as combat inflammation. Ginger specifically can help with nausea caused by motion sickness. Some believe that it can even help relieve indigestion and prevent stomach ulcers.
Bumpy car rides left you feeling green with your stomach in knots? Ginger, even in the form of herbal tea could be your cure!
Echinacea
Echinacea could come in handy this cold season, as it’s known for preventing and shortening common colds. The tea can supposedly give your immune system the boost it needs to fight off minor viruses which lessens the symptoms and length of the common cold. A warm mug of echinacea tea may also help soothe a sore throat.
Feeling the start of a cold? Echinacea tea can help you knock out the symptoms before they get to you!
Lemon Balm
One tea you may not be as familiar with — lemon balm — packs a powerful punch of lemony flavor and numerous health benefits. While some believe that the tea can increase antioxidant levels and skin elasticity, it’s most known for its ability to reduce or relieve anxiety.
Stressing over school or personal life? A warm mug of lemon balm tea —and maybe some meditation —could be just what you need!
Rose Hip
Made from the fruit of the rose plant, rose hip tea is commonly used for its anti-inflammatory properties. Many use it to reduce joint pain which is often associated with arthritis. The tea is also high in vitamin C and antioxidants — two things that can be immune system boosters.
Feeling like you could use an immunity boost to push through the last few weeks of the semester? Rose hip tea can help you out!
Natural remedies aren’t everyone’s cup of tea — pun intended — but at the very least, any of these teas can be a delicious addition to your day. Who knows, you may even see some of the benefits for yourself!
Have you tried any new herbal teas? Tweet us, @VALLEYmag, and let us know!
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