There are two main reasons why you should incorporate herbal tea in your everyday diet. The first one is the great aromas and tastes you get from a lot of these teas. The second is the huge benefit to one’s health. Herbal teas have been used for centuries to help support a variety of different ailments. The teas themselves are different to every day teas. Black, green and white teas tend to use the leaves of the plant, whereas herbal infusions use the dried fruits, spices, herbs and flower heads.
Oh How Civilised offers a number of recipes from Peppermint, Chamomile, Ginger, Rose, Butterfly Pea Flower, Lavender, Chrysanthemum and lots more.
They explain that Herbals teas are not real tea since they don’t come from the camellia sinensis, the tea plant. Real tea, like black tea and green tea, are made from leaves from the camellia sinensis plant, and they all contain caffeine.
Loose herbal tea will always make a better tasting cup than herbals in tea bags. However, for convenience, tea bags are a great way to sample some great herbal teas, without the mess!!
12 ‘Knockout’ Herbal Teas & Their Medicinal Uses
Listed below are 12 of the best ‘knockout’ herbal teas that can be purchased in most stores. The list is by no means exhaustive but will give you an idea of the wide choice available.
On the whole, herbal teas are safe to drink, but if you suffer from certain medical conditions, it may be worth talking to your doctor first.
Please note that the following list contains Amazon affiliate links.
1. Dandilion – Liver support, Anti Inflammatory, Skin Health. Anti Cancer
Dandelion tea can be used as a diuretic which aids bloating. It can also support the prostate and can fight against urinary tract infections. Studies have shown that the dandelion root induces cancer cells.
2. Red Clover – Immune support, Menopause, Vitamin C, Arthritis, Asthma.
This tea has a number of health qualities. It is used for bone health and is great for arthritis. It also supports the menopause and those suffering with asthma.
3. Motherwort – Lucid Dreaming, Regular Insomnia, Anti-Anxiety.
Part of the mint family, motherwort is a great antioxidant. It can help with lowering blood pressure and reducing your heart rate. Has been known to reduce depression and anxiety.
4. Echinacea – Cold Prevention, Cramp Ease, Aids Digestion.
The popular remedy in preventing the common cold. This tea boosts the immune system and helps the body fight infection. Some studies have shown that can echinacea can actually shorten the time one has a cold.
5. Elderflower – Flu Prevention, Antibacterial, Antiseptic.
Elderflower tea is thought to help with bringing down a fever. Aids colds and tackles sinus problems. It is a powerhouse and is used as a antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory treatment.
6. Stinging Nettle – Arthritis Pain Support, Menstrual Support, Astringent Properties.
Nettle tea is great for supporting the urinary tract as it flushes away the harmful bacteria that collects in the bladder. It is especially good for arthritis and can manage blood sugar levels.
7. Hibiscus – High Vitamin C, Immune System, Cold Prevention. Reduces Bad Cholesterol, Lowers Blood Pressure.
Hibiscus tea has a number of healthful properties. Research has shown that not only can it tackle cholesterol but can also lower blood pressure. High in vitamins C which is good for cold prevention.
8. Peppermint – Digestive Tract Ailments. Antioxidant, Anticancer, Antibacterial
There have been plenty of studies on peppermint tea. The main health benefit seems to be the support of the digestion. It helps relieve nausea, stomach pain and flatulence, and has been helpful in easing the problems with irritable bowel syndrome.
9. Ginger – Tummy Pain, Inflammation, Sore Throats
Ginger is full of antioxidants and is great for nausea and relieving tummy problems. Some evidence has shown that the tea is also beneficial for those suffering with stomach ulcers. Has also been used in early pregnancy to avoid nausea.
10. Liquorice – Phlegm, Respiratory, Sore Throat, Digestion.
Liquorice tea can help settle an upset stomach and can combat nausea. Its qualities can also be used to help with asthma.
11. Chamomile – Aids Sleep, Antibacterial, Anti-Inflammatory, Liver-protecting effects
Although this is the penultimate tea on our list, chamomile is probably one of the most popular teas throughout the world. Most people tend to use this herb to aid sleep as well as it having calming effects.
12. Rooibos – Bone Repair, Lower Blood Pressure, Reduce Heart Disease.
Studies have shown that this tea helps the cells that help in repairing and preserving the skeletal bones. It can also help with reducing heart disease, although further studies are needed.
