Herbal teas are beverages made from boiling various leaves, flowers, fruits, barks and roots of an edible non-tea plant (meaning not derived from Camellia sinensis plant which is used to create black, oolong, green, and white teas).
Some of the most common herbal teas are turmeric tea, chamomile tea, ginger tea, neem tea, hibiscus tea, yerba mate tea, spearmint tea, and peppermint tea. These teas, which have existed for a very long time, often carry a sweet flavor and soothing scent. They can be consumed hot or chilled and served over ice.
Consumption of herbal tea will allow us to enjoy the various health benefits of different herbs, plants, and spices in a way that is easy to consume and digest.
One of the most important healing functions of herbal tea may simply be that it can keep us hydrated.
GH Nutrition Director Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, author of Dressing on the Side (and Other Diet Myths Debunked) says that:
“When you’re sick, eat high-water fruits and veggies and drink a ton of fluids — at least 10 cups per day from unsweetened sources, including tea.”
Herbal teas may also provide a calming effect, relieve stress, aid in digestion, and give our body a high concentration of antioxidants that are needed to fight off illnesses.
When talking about cold symptoms, a smart choice is a cup of hot tea that can help soothe a sore throat and break up congestion. For this, chamomile and peppermint tea have long been a favorite of people. These teas taste especially good with a natural sweetener, like honey.
Studies revealed that honey possesses antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties that can help us fight the common cold and its symptoms. It can naturally relax a sore and itchy throat, boost the immune system for faster recovery, and lower our risk for the common cold in the future.
Sipping an herbal tea with a bit of honey can help loosen phlegm, soothe pain and soreness, and suppress a cough.
