When it’s cold and dreary outside (like it is today), my favorite thing is to curl up with a nice cup of hot tea and a book and just relax. As it turns out, tea is not only relaxing and yummy, but actually really good for you! Many teas have some excellent flu-fighting abilities as well as many other health benefits!
Here are some of my favorite teas, along with a brief explanation of why they are good for you:
Green Tea – This tea has tons of health benefits including aiding weight lost, increasing alertness, lowering cholesterol and protecting skin from sun damage. Some sites claim it can help fight cancer as well, but those studies have not been confirmed.
Rosehip – A great source of vitamin C, this tea is a good immune-booster and can help with skin and tissue health.
Lemon Balm – This tea is excellent for lifting spirits and helping improve concentration. I have also read it can help reduce nightmares in children if drank before bed.
Ginger – Can relieve nausea, vomiting, fever, headache, sinus symptoms and settle an upset stomach.
Yarrow – Good at helping manage fevers and is said to shorten flu and colds by less than 24 hours. This herb is naturally bitter, so include peppermint or other teas to make it taste better.
Chamomile – Calms the nerves and reduces inflammation and fever and reduces cough. Also excellent for helping regulate hormones and help with sleep.
Peppermint – Lowers fevers and helps calm the stomach if you’re sick or bloated. It is also antimicrobial and antiviral and can help with fighting sickness.
Catnip – This traditional cold and flu remedy can induce sleep and settle the stomach. It is good at combating illnesses as well
Milk Thistle or Dandelion – Both of these teas are liver cleansers and can help improve digestive processes.
Honey and Cinnamon tea – when sick, mix 1 T of cinnamon with 1 t of honey and make a sweet and spicy tea to help relieve cough, congestion and lower fever
Elderflower – brewed as tea, the flowers of the Elder plant are anti-inflammatory and can help with respiratory and cold symptoms. CAUTION: The leaves, sticks and roots of the Elder plant are poisonous! Only the flowers and berries, when properly prepared, can be consumed safely.
Warning: This information is for educational and entertainment purposes only! The health benefits of tea have not all been verified. Always consult a medical professional when it comes to health, and do your research!
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