HERBAL TEA
Benefits of herbal tea
Instead of a cup of coffee or tea first thing in the morning, why not try an alternative? Warm water with lemon juice is a great way to start your day. This helps to stimulate the liver’s natural detoxification phase.
Infusion: this is the most common way to drink tea. This method is used for dried and fresh herbs or flowers. Pour boiling water over the herb; let it stand for 1-2 minutes.
Decoction: This method is used more when the herbal parts are hard, such as barks, seeds or roots. The herb is cut into small pieces or powdered covered with cold fresh water, brought to the boil and simmered for at least 20-30 minutes.
Common types of teas
Chamomile (German): assists with digestion and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the gastrointestinal tract, has a very good calming effect on the nerves and is useful as a night-time cup of tea. Also helpful for teething babies - make an infusion, allow to cool, and then soak a clean handkerchief for them to suck on, this is very soothing for their inflamed gums.
Caution: may cause allergic reaction in some individuals - Ragweed allergies.
Peppermint: is another herb that assists with digestion. It assists with bloating, especially after large or rich meals, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastrointestinal spasm, and acute management of fever. For a summer treat - make a peppermint infusion, cool and add mint and ice for a refreshing drink.
Caution: can worsen reflux as it has a relaxing effect on gastroesophageal sphincter.
Dandelion: can be used as a substitute for coffee with fewer side effects, as dandelion does not contain caffeine. It is a beneficial herb for the liver as it helps to stimulate bile and clear liver congestion, especially in cases of fatty food or alcohol intolerance.
Green Tea: has a powerful antioxidant effect which is useful in treating oxidative stress caused from free radicals as a result of lifestyle factors e.g. smoking.
Rooibos Tea: is rich in antioxidants, caffeine free, low in tannins, a nice tea for everyone to enjoy.
Lemon Balm: is indicated for nervous tension, especially with digestive discomfort and especially in children.
Ginger: is useful for colds and flu as it helps induce sweating. It also assists with improving poor circulation and poor digestion function and has an anti-nausea effect – this is especially useful for pregnant women. Ginger tea taken first thing in morning can help prevent morning sickness.
Sage: infused in water and allowed to cool, is a useful mouthwash and throat gargle, to alleviate sore throats. May also be useful in reducing the incidence of hot flushes and night sweats.
Thyme: Infuse equal parts of thyme and sage to use as a tea or gargle as a remedy for colds and sore throats.
This is an example of uses of some herbs.
If you would like further information
on the medicinal uses of herbs speak to us.
