The healing benefits of Tea have been long documented. It has been used for centuries around the world, but it is only within the last few years that Tea has been what they might term, Fashionable. Due to the advance in international produce available and the effects of researching for natural alternatives, Tea has become the go-to for many things now. And I for one, will sing its praises.
Green Tea, in my opinion, is my go-to throughout the day. It can provide the 'pick you up' that you may need from an espresso or a Starbucks Latte, but is gentler and much more healthier ! Whilst Green Tea has caffeine that can provide the surge in energy, it doesn't provide the 'slump' afterwards that you will get from a full fat, sugar loaded coffee.
It is high in Antioxidants, making it healthier than regular teas and can actually help to encourage cell growth. This doesn't mean you can feast on McDonalds but soak in the virtue of "I'm a green Tea drinker". But it does mean that it will help to mop up free radicals in your blood and it can help reduce bad cholesterol to boot. Green Tea can help give you beautiful skin and hair due to its present amount of Epigallocatechin. (Yes, I looked this one up... ). It acts as an anti ageing ingredient, can stimulate hair growth but can actually supress the growth of cancerous cells in the body.
With so many different flavours to try on the market today, it would be rude not to !!
Chamomile is my evening treat ! (See above picture). Out comes the teapot and a book, and away goes all of the stresses of a long tiring day. I use Chamomile essential oil a lot for clients who are stressed or anxious as it promotes relaxation and helps to bring peace and calm to the mind. So with that said, why wouldn't I sit down with a Cham Tea after a long day ?
Chamomile is a fantastic relaxant and can help soothe tense muscles, particular in the cause of migraines and headaches, and also with IBS symptoms. Chamomile can help soothe the gut and the bowel and ease cramps that are particularly nasty (I know as this is a condition which I live with and treat accordingly on a daily basis). Chamomile tea is a great aid for digestion, and I have used very weak blends of it to help soothe the colicky pain that my one year old has suffered in the past. Chamomile tea is also known to help the immune system fight infections and reduce inflammation, so is great if you have a cold rearing its ugly head. Use alongside the advice given in previous post regarding colds, sinuses etc. I have used this tea regularly for years to help with tensions and strains of everyday life, and it is my first port of call should I need to relax and de-stress, particularly before bedtime.
Peppermint tea is another strong contender in the fight against my IBS. Some days are just very uncomfortable, and no 'loose clothes', exercise (although that helps) or suggestion seems to help as well as this tea. Peppermint helps to combat indigestion and ease pain associated with bloating, constipation and gas, but can also help quell the feeling of nausea. It is a natural anti inflammatory so can help with Rheumatism and associated conditions too. It was one of my main products in the fight against morning sickness (along with ginger tea), and helped to keep me hydrated as well as keeping sickness at bay for a while. Peppermint can help to suppress the appetite, but if you are anything like me, a Belgian bun is a Belgian bun, no matter how much tea you drink. But like everything, moderation is key.
It can help with Halitosis (bad breath), which is why chewing gum uses this oil a lot ! Peppermint is cooling, and is a great tea to use in summer if you cannot do without a cuppa. It increases perspiration so helps to have a cooling effect on the body in the summer heat. Cool peppermint tea can be applied with a cotton pad as a natural toner for the skin, as it helps to remove blackheads and eases greasy skin.
There are so many teas to talk about, but these are my main loves in the tea world. Don't get me wrong my cupboard os full of different types and I enjoy tasting them all, but if I need a pick me up, a calming one or one to help with IBS pain these are my main three of choice. Enjoy !! I may update on further posts with benefits of others I use.
