Asian traditional medicine has long relied heavily on herbal teas, which are well-known for their ability to eliminate heat and promote detoxification. Teas prepared from plants like gotu kola, Asian plantains, and serpent grass are commonly used in areas like Chaoshan, China, to treat illnesses like diarrhoea, colds, and coughs.
Similar to this, herbal teas prepared from tulsi (holy basil), ginger, and turmeric are commonly used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine to balance the body's doshas and improve general health. Antioxidant-rich teas like matcha and sencha are drink in Japan to increase metabolism and sharpen the mind. In ancient Asian methods, these infusions of herbs are vital for preserving health and treating a range of ailments.
For good reason, people have been drinking tea for thousands of years all across the world. Several studies have demonstrated the potential health benefits of teas, including increased immunity, reduced inflammation, and even protection against cancer and heart disease.
There is a lot of data to suggest that drinking tea on a regular basis might have a long-lasting effect on your heath, even though some varieties offer greater health benefits than others.
Now that you know some of the greatest advantages concealed in the most often consumed teas worldwide.
History of herbal teas
Asian civilizations have a long history of using herbal teas, and traditional medical practices are closely linked to them. For more than two millennia, ginseng and ginger teas have been utilised in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). They strengthen immunity, increase energy, and facilitate better digestion. Ginseng tea lessens weariness and boosts vigour. Ginger tea helps with colds and digestive problems.
Herbal teas are very important in Indian Ayurveda for balancing the three doshas of the body: Pitta, Kapha, and Vata. Holy basil tea, or tulsi, improves respiratory health, lowers stress levels, and lengthens life. Turmeric and ginger teas are anti-inflammatory and beneficial to the digestive system.
Herbal teas are a common part of traditional therapeutic techniques in Southeast Asia. Lemongrass tea is a popular digestive and anti-inflammatory beverage in Thailand. In Indonesia, ginger and turmeric are frequently added to "jamu," a traditional herbal beverage, to enhance general health and vigour.
Benefits of drinking herbal teas
Herbal teas, commonly known as tisanes, are quite similar to white teas; however, in addition to tea leaves, they can contain a mixture of fruits, herbs, spices, and other plants. Since herbal teas don't contain caffeine, their relaxing effects are well-known.
Herbal teas come in a wide variety, each with special advantages. Among the most well-liked herbal teas are:
- Chamomile tea: Enhances sleep and relaxation, lowers tension, and helps to lessen menstruation discomfort and muscular spasms.
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Rooibos: Maintains strong hair and healthy skin, increases good cholesterol while decreasing bad cholesterol, increases blood pressure and circulation, and relieves allergy symptoms.
- Menthol, which is found in peppermint, helps treat motion sickness, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, and upset stomachs. This type of tea also relieves migraine and tension headache discomfort.
- Ginger: helps alleviate osteoarthritis-related joint pain, helps prevent morning sickness, and can be used to treat chronic dyspepsia.
- Hibiscus: May prevent kidney stones from forming, lower blood pressure and lipid levels, enhance liver health generally, and stifle cravings for harmful sweets.
Preparation of Tea in Traditional Practice
Herbal teas are used in traditional Asian medicine, and their therapeutic advantages are increased by careful preparation and drinking. TCM practitioners start by choosing premium herbs. To maintain the herbs' effectiveness, they are subsequently dried and kept in a controlled atmosphere. Usually, they steep the herbs in boiling water for a predetermined amount of time so that the tea's active ingredients can seep in. By using this procedure, the most advantageous properties are extracted.
Herbal teas are traditionally made by boiling the herbs in water, according to Ayurvedic practice. To increase the potency, they might add other spices like cardamom or black pepper. Turmeric tea, for instance, is made by boiling turmeric root in water with black pepper, honey, and occasionally lemon. Turmeric's key ingredient, curcumin, is more bioavailable thanks to this combination, which also strengthens its anti-inflammatory properties.
In Japan, preparing and serving matcha according to exacting standards is part of the traditional tea ritual, or "chanoyu." Using a bamboo whisk, practitioners mix hot water and powdered green tea to create a bright, frothy beverage. Achieving a contemplative state is the goal of this ceremonial practice, which emphasises awareness and reverence for tradition.
Impact of Drinking Herbal Tea
Herbal teas' widespread popularity and consumption demonstrate their adaptability and extensive range of health advantages. Herbal teas provide a natural and comprehensive approach to health, whether they are utilised for their therapeutic qualities or are just enjoyed as a soothing beverage. They offer a way to boost immunity, promote mental and physical health, and naturally treat a variety of illnesses.
With herbal teas becoming more and more popular, it's important to continue using them with knowledge. Optimising advantages and reducing hazards can be achieved by speaking with medical professionals, comprehending any conflicts, and locating premium herbs. Herbal teas can bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and current science by being a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle when used with caution.