Whether you have a headache, sore throat or are stressed out, there's a tea for that! I am a firm believer in the healing powers of tea and its countless uses. First off, real tea all comes from the same plant, the Camellia sinensis. After that they are categorized into three groups: black tea, green tea and white tea. The difference in these is how they are processed after they are picked, and the placement of the tea leaves. But within these categories are countless different flavors and combinations, all with healing properties. This is one of my favorite things about tea: you will never run out of options!
1. Green tea
Green tea is a timeless favorite of mine. It has tons of antioxidants and keeps your metabolism running like it should. It is hailed as one of the healthiest teas, and even has weight loss properties. Due to its polyphenols, it protects cells in the body from free radicals in the body. It has less caffeine than coffee, but still has the same affect of making you alert without the jitters! Green tea is most popularly served with honey and lemon, but if you don’t mind a bitter taste, it is great straight up too!!
2. Peppermint tea
Although it is an herbal tea, peppermint has amazing healing properties. Peppermint tea is useful when your stomach hurts or you have digestive problems. I didn’t believe this until I was diagnosed as lactose intolerant. Before my doctor knew what was happening to me, I kept a cup of peppermint tea on me at all times. It really is amazing how it keeps the pain away. Since then, I have been an avid believer.
3. Oolong tea
Yes, I spelled that right…I promise. Oolong is a small but mighty type of tea. Many people have never heard of it, despite its health benefits. Green tea has very little fermentation (which contributes to its countless health properties), while black tea is very fermented and processed (which gives it a stronger flavor and caffeine content). Oolong is right in the middle of those, so it has caffeine, but also health benefits due to it not being processed very much. The antioxidants in Oolong tea help protect against osteoporosis, removes free radicals, can help stabilize diabetes, and even lower stress levels!!
4. Chamomile tea
Although chamomile tea is an herbal tea and does not come from the Camellia sinensis plant, it has been used for generations due to its stress-relieving properties. You have probably heard people talking about drinking chamomile tea before bed to help them sleep better. Well, that is because a chemical in the tea acts as a mild sedative. This is also why chamomile is used to help with anxiety, and can calm down babies (when given in small amounts).
