Sometimes we all get tired of drinking the same beverages on a daily basis. It's no surprise that people go crazy over coffee as many Americans consume multiple cups per day.
Tea, on the other hand, is a healthier alternative and depending on what type you choose, you can reap the many health benefits while still getting the alertness that coffee brings about. There is nothing like a warm cup of tea to start or end the day that makes you feel refreshed and detoxified.
What I love about tea is the endless choices. There is pretty much a tea to resolve any problematic situation concerning your health. Here are situations and 10 teas that hold powerful healing effects.
1. Having trouble sleeping? Try lavender tea.
With its calming aroma and myriad of health benefits, lavender tea is perfect for a relaxing night and may help you to achieve that needed restful sleep. In a study, subjects were either exposed to lavender oil or water and it was found that those who smelled the lavender had a longer period of deep sleep and a shorter period of REM sleep. Therefore, drinking lavender as tea should have a similar effect.
2. Feeling stressed or irritated? Chamomile tea can relax you.
Chamomile tea helps to relax the muscles and also improves your sleep. This tea's health benefits stem partly from nutrients called flavonoids which you can read more about here. With flu season upon us, it is incredibly easy to catch a cold, especially if you are surrounded by others constantly. There is evidence that drinking chamomile tea gives your immune system a boost and can help prevent symptoms of a cold.
3. Have an upset stomach? Peppermint tea is your solution.
A chemical known as menthol is present in peppermint tea which puts the stomach at ease especially when one is experiencing digestion issues or other stomach-related discomforts. Also, peppermint tea does not contain any caffeine so you can enjoy yourself a cup at any time of day. Especially for those who experience heartburn, it is best to drink this tea after meals or before going to sleep.
4. Feel like you need to make a change in your life? Green tea has your back.
Green tea can improve many areas of your life. Known as one of the healthiest things you can drink, green tea is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients which helps to keep you at your best. Green tea is similar to coffee as both have caffeine; however, green tea gives you alertness without the jitters and crash that comes along with drinking coffee. Drinking this tea also improves concentration and performance and can also aid in weight loss.
5. Does your metabolism seem slow lately? Oolong tea can help speed it up.
Oolong tea is the perfect metabolism booster. Oolong tea is very popular in China as people drink it daily, but is less well known in many other locations. In fact, according to Medical News Today, of the tea consumed around the world, Oolong tea makes up only 2%. This tea decreases the absorption of fat which may help one lose weight. Because of the stimulant properties of caffeine, which is present in this tea, it may additionally increase alertness.
6. Did your doctor inform you of your high cholesterol, hypertension or other common health issues? Black tea could be your solution.
Studies have shown that those who consume multiple cups of black tea per day are often likely to reduce their risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or even stroke. If you are looking for a tea that is naturally strong and rich in flavor, then black tea is for you. Most drink their black tea as iced tea which can be perfect in the heat of the afternoon.
7. Tired of coffee but still want a boost of energy in the mornings? Matcha tea will do it.
Matcha is rapidly growing in popularity and is blossoming over Instagram. It contains L-theanine which improves concentration and alertness. Not only this but by eliminating dead skin cells and creating more elasticity, Matcha can clear up acne and create a glowing complexion. In addition, many also believe that matcha has a meditative effect, allowing you to improve your mood and be present in the moment. Matcha is strong on its own which is why many opt to add honey or another sweetener to their tea.
8. Wanting to spice up your life in the form of a new drink? Chai tea has you covered.
This popular beverage holds a sweet yet subtly spicy taste to it creating a unique flavor that tastes amazing. Made from wholesome ingredients each with powerful health benefits such as cinnamon and ginger, chai can do wonders for your health. Chai tea lattes are common, especially in the winter months. However, if you are looking for something healthy, beware of the surplus of sugar that you may find in chai tea lattes from Starbucks, for example.
9. Looking for something that undergoes little processing? White tea is your answer.
White tea does not have a strong flavor or bitter taste and is even slightly sweet. A cup of this tea will leave you feeling refreshed as the leaves extracted undergo rarely any processing. White tea is known for being packed with antioxidants which essentially eliminate free radicals which can damage one's DNA.
10. Experiencing nausea or illness? Ginger tea may help relive these symptoms.
Ginger has an immense anti-inflammatory effect helping to reduce any type of pain, whether this is an upset stomach, cramps, or headaches. Ginger tea acts as a pain reliever which can be a lifesaver in such situations. With its long list of health benefits, no wonder ginger is classified as one of the healthiest spices.