It’s the heart of flu season now, not to mention the other illnesses we are all prone to in the dead of winter. I’m a huge believer in modern medicine, but I also know that it’s not the only way to help yourself to feel better.

For many years, humans have been using plants to help them heal illnesses, and one of the most common ways is by making them into teas and infusions. These days, we call most infusions tea anyway, so here are a few of both that I know from research and from my own life that can be very beneficial.

Both ginger and peppermint teas are naturally anti-inflammatory and hold a myriad of health benefits like helping with fever and some aches and pains. Ginger tea is also a wonderful treatment for nausea, not to mention delicious with some honey and lemon!

Speaking of which, drinking honey in any kind of tea is also quite beneficial, as it is a healthier sweetener than just plain sugar as well as being able to help soothe a sore throat.

Green tea is my personal favorite. It’s full of antioxidants and is associated with lower blood sugar and lower risk of cardiovascular disorders. There’s no scientific proof for it, but I would also argue that it’s been amazing for my skin.

While there’s a small amount of caffeine in green tea, I’ve found it to be just enough to get me going in the morning without giving me the crazy crash that coffee does. Citrus is commonly added to green tea, which also makes it a great immune booster.

Chamomile tea is maybe less of a generally accepted health drink, but it can help to regulate sleep habits and boost your immune system. Chamomile tea, especially with honey, is extremely relaxing; there’s a reason why so many people like to drink it before bed. Teas like chamomile are not caffeinated, so they’re quite beneficial without having the added (and sometimes negative) effect of caffeine.

Drinking any kind of tea is beneficial in many ways. Hot drinks as a whole are healthy for digestion and metabolism. Tea specifically is cheaper and healthier than coffee, and honestly much easier and quicker to make.

I used to habitually drink coffee myself, and in fact, I swore by it. I started drinking tea, though, and even when I’m feeling perfectly fine it makes me feel better. If you’re one of those who swears by coffee, then more power to you. But my advice? Give tea a try!