Herbal Teas
In recent years herbal teas have become a lot more popular than they used to be. People are starting to drink more herbal tea due to the various health benefits that they may have. Although called teas classic herbal teas will not contain any tea in the standard sense so give the added benefit of being caffeine free.
These drinks are infusions - the teas are made from herbs, plants, fruits, spices and flowers and are made in the same way as brewing tea leaves (i.e. you pour boiling water on to the tea bag or tea leaves to make the drink).
Many people drink herbal teas because they simply like the taste or are looking for an alternative to standard teas and to coffee. Others drink them for their specific medicinal effects. Popular types of herbal teas include:
- Camomile Tea - camomile tea is made from camomile flowers. This tea is supposed to have a calming and relaxing effect.
- Fruit Teas - there are all kinds of fruit teas available to suit all tastes. Many fruit teas will offer a couple of fruits in the blend or they may be added to a standard herbal tea (such as camomile and lemon, for example).
- Echinacea tea - echinacea is supposed to give your immune system a boost when you are feeling run down so this tea can be useful if you have a cold or a virus.
- Ginger Tea - ginger can calm the stomach so can be a good tea to drink if you have an upset stomach or are feeling nauseous.
- Peppermint/Spearmint Tea - mint can help sort out digestive problems, indigestion and upset stomachs.
- Rooiboos Tea - this South African tea has the same kinds of antioxidant advantages as standard teas but does not have a caffeine content.
- Valerian Tea - valerian is a natural sedative and this tea can help you de-stress and can help with insomnia problems.