You may have noticed we’re a little obsessed with drinking tea at IQS. Our communal tea drawer is stuffed full of fragrant blends and we love nothing better than a nice strong cuppa.
It should be no surprise then that we recently attended a tea blending workshop with naturopath and founder of OVVIO Organic Tea, Anthia Koullouros. We imbibed copious amounts of tea and knowledge about how a brew can help improve our health.
“Herbal teas offer a delicious form of therapy,” says Anthia. “They can calm, energise or offer specific therapeutic effects, such as antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory properties.”
So put the kettle on and sit back – we’re looking at seven health benefits of herbal tea (including increasing libido…).
1. Chamomile.
Chamomile is known for its sedative effects. However, there is also evidence that chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, as well as helping heal mild wounds and rashes. But note, chamomile is not recommended in pregnancy, as it has been linked to miscarriages.
As for the taste, well, inferior chamomile can taste of dust or weeds (delicious). “But good quality, whole chamomile tastes like an apple-y meadow and looks like little daisies,” says Anthia.
2. Liquorice.
The active compound in liquorice, glycyrrhizin, is another anti-inflammatory, known for improving liver function. But watch out if you have high blood pressure, because glycyrrhizin can induce hypertension.
Glycyrrhizin is up to 50 times sweeter than sugar, so pure liquorice makes a great substitute. But if you can’t have liquorice, try star anise or fennel for a similar aniseed flavour.
3. Dandelion.
There are two types of dandelion tea – one is made from the leaves, the other from the root. Dandelion root tea is healthier, as it contains bitter compounds shown to fight cancer, artery disease and bacterial infection.
“Bitter tastes stimulate saliva, enzymes and bile, enhancing our digestion, the breakdown of foods and assimilation of nutrients,” says Anthia.
Dandelion root tea can be an acquired taste (as we discovered) so make sure you balance it with sweet spices, like liquorice or vanilla.
4. Rosehip.
Rose tea has shown potential in reducing painful period cramps. But it’s really the fruit of the plant, the rosehip, that has the health benefits. It’s one of the richest sources of vitamin C, and the antioxidant-rich fruit has reduced symptoms in people with inflammation and arthritis.
Rosehip tea is often blended with hibiscus, for a tart, sweet and extremely pink brew.
5. Ginger.
Ginger is known for its antinausea properties (it is often recommended for morning sickness or motion sickness). It’s also a warming spice, which Anthia says can help those with ‘cold constitutions’.
“Thin, wiry individuals (especially those with a low metabolism) can benefit from warming teas,” Anthia says.
Maybe that’s why we always reach for ginger tea when we have a cold – with a squeeze of lemon, of course!
6. Peppermint.
Peppermint, on the other hand, is a cooling herb. It is often used to treat inflamed, angry conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and migraine headaches.
“People with ‘hot constitutions’, such as those with overactive thyroids or night sweats, may benefit from cooling teas like peppermint,” says Anthia.
7. Vanilla.
Finally, the sweet spice that gets us through all our sugar cravings! While vanilla is the most expensive spice after saffron, it’s worth it for its soothing anti-inflammatory activities and mellowing aroma.
Plus, vanilla beans are prized for their potent aphrodisiac properties. Who knew?!
(Editor’s note: Like any form of alternative therapy, we like to use herbal tea to boost our health along with a healthy diet, exercise and additional advice from our healthcare practitioner!)
What’s your favourite herbal tea? Does it help with your health?
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