Pantry Staples: Tea Favorites
Photo by Igor Miske on Unsplash
Though I am an occasional drink coffee, I’m a true tea drinker at heart. Here are my few of my favorite teas and a few of their health benefits.
1 // Green Tea is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body. These include improved brain function, fat loss, a lower risk of cancer and many other impressive benefits (source). When I Typically Drink It: During the work day (typically prior to the late afternoon).
2 //Matcha is very high in antioxidants, amino acids, and chlorophyll, which is responsible for its beautiful bright green color. Of the amino acids contained in matcha tea, L-theanine is the most prevalent and is known to have a relaxing effect on the mind and body, hence why traditionally monks would sip matcha tea to help ease their mind for meditation. Plus the subtle caffeine content helps with focus, which could be because theanine increases serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and glycine levels in the brain (source). When I Typically Drink It: Matcha has been a part of my daily morning routine for years (before it became so trendy).
3 //Stinging Nettle is used to help a number of ailments. Studies have shown stinging nettle has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-ulcer, astringent and analgesic capabilities. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the plant has been used most commonly throughout history as a diuretic and for treating painful muscles and joints, eczema, arthritis, gout, and anemia. Today, it’s used primarily to treat urinary issues, as well as allergies and joint pain (source). When I Typically Drink It: Any time of day.
4 //Raspberry Leaf is naturally high in magnesium, potassium, iron and b-vitamins which make it helpful for nausea, leg cramps, and improving sleep during pregnancy. The specific combination of nutrients in Raspberry Leaf makes it extremely beneficial for the female reproductive system. It strengthens the uterus and pelvic muscles which some midwives say leads to shorter and easier labors (source). When I Typically Drink It: Any time of day.
5 //Hibiscus Health benefits of hibiscus tea include its ability to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, disturbed digestive and immune system, and inflammatory problems as well. It helps cure liver diseases and reduces the risk of cancer. It can also speed up the metabolism and help in healthy, gradual weight loss. It is rich in vitamin C, minerals, and antioxidants and helps in the treatment of hypertension and anxiety (source). When I Typically Drink It: Any time of day.
7 //Ginger tea made from ginger has high levels of vitamin C and amino acids, as well as various trace elements such as calcium, zinc, sodium, phosphorus, and many others (source). When I Typically Drink It:Mornings.
8 //Mint soothes digestion and relaxes the esophageal sphincter that can help improve digestion (source). When I Typically Drink It: Any time of day.
9 // Dandelion Root is used for many conditions, but there isn’t enough scientific evidence to determine whether or not it is effective for any of them. Dandelion is used for loss of appetite, upset stomach, intestinal gas, gallstones, joint pain, muscle aches, eczema, and bruises. Dandelion is also used to increase urine production and as a laxative to increase bowel movements. It is also used as skin toner, blood tonic, and digestive tonic (source). When I Typically Drink It: Any time of day.