"My day always starts with coffee!"

I am sure that we have heard this saying too many times to actually count. Most likely, as college students, we have all resorted to the caffeinated sweetness that coffee brings us in order to trudge through our morning lectures, despite the lacking of appetite and jitters that are frequently associated with it. Though coffee gives us the convenience of availability, this does not mean that it is the most beneficial thing to fuel ourselves with. Those jitters are not solely caused by the caffeine that coffee contains, but, rather, the sugar that is always thrown into the mix in order to avoid the bitterness of the purely-ground beverage.

I am a tea addict. Those close to me are well-aware of this, as I am hardly ever seen without a steaming mug in my hands. I have never been a heavy coffee-drinker, however, I have given into the sugary temptation of a $2.00 Frappuccino while bracing against the snow on my way to morning lab sessions. Haven't we all?

However, it has been found that, given the variety of teas that are available to us, each one seems to grant us with healthful benefits that could definitely make our busy lives easier. If you are looking to replace those AM shudders with something more sustainable, I have created a small list of the three tea leaves found most commonly, as well as their varying benefits.

1. Green Tea

Green tea, which is likely the most recognized type of tea leaf, contains only a quarter of the caffeine that coffee carries. Though this may not seem like too much to help you with your morning routine, the caffeine that green tea contains is completely natural.

This tea has been studied on countless occasions. In fact, many of these studies have concluded that tea improves our blood flow, as well as provides us a boost of immunity against diseases such as the common cold (WebMD). In a particular Swiss study, green tea had been shown to improve our memories, as well as to prevent the buildup of plaque in our brains that could lead to the formation of Alzheimer's disease (WebMD). The benefits to green tea are virtually endless; however, not only is it a beneficial beverage, but it is also great tasting with just a hint of honey mixed with it! It can be bitter, but do not let this push you away.

2. Black Tea

Black tea, which is also known for its bitter taste that is just a tad stronger than that of green tea, does not retain its antioxidants while being brewed. However, due its lower amount of caffeine, the beverage assists our circulatory system (Times of India). The plant in which black tea is picked from is also the same plant as green tea, but both teas are very different.

This tea contains traces of natural fluoride, which benefits our oral and bone healths. Black tea is a great drink to pair with meals, as its anti-inflammatory properties aid in digestion and even our overall immunity health (Times of India). Remember to sprinkle some sugar into the tea if needed, and enjoy after a meal on our campus's cafeteria!

3. Chamomile Tea

This tea, at least for me, has helped me on countless occasions during the final weeks of my past semesters. I know from my own experience (not like I have not experienced the aforementioned teas as well) that chamomile is a soothing beverage that aids in relaxation. Chamomile tea has also been noted to relieve menstrual cramps, as well as the typical stomach pains associated with acid reflux (WebMD).

While this tea (as well as the others) are able to be used externally as well, such as in the forms of eye-compressors or oils to be lathered over the skin or through hair, drinking chamomile tea eases the mind and promotes restful sleep (WebMD). I have found it wonderful personally, and there was hardly an evening where I slept without it.

When in doubt, drink tea!