Sit back and relax with your favourite brew as we look at the qualities of different teas and herbal infusions.
Matcha tea health benefits
Most of us are aware that green tea carries a long list of health benefits. It is packed with antioxidants and compounds that can improve heart health and have been linked to lowering the risk of cancers. The leaf naturally contains less caffeine than black tea and coffee. This means it can still provide us with an energy boost at work, but in lower doses.
Matcha tea is made from green tea. It carries all the benefits but in a higher concentration. This is because matcha is created by grinding up green tea leaves. This process results in a blend which sees more of the antioxidants absorbed into the water. Where green tea bags infuse the water with some of the antioxidants, the consistency of matcha tea allows more of the leaf to be released into the drink.
Tip: Always choose a quality brand of matcha tea to ensure that you are drinking a pure form of the leaf.
Earl grey health benefits
Earl grey has a rich, sweet taste. This makes it all the more surprising to hear all the amazing health benefits this super tea has. Earl grey is packed with catechins. Catechins increase our metabolism by up to four times, making us burn calories quicker throughout the day. Earl grey leaves also aid digestion and help to improve bowel regularity.
A study conducted in Italy by Catanzaro University found that earl grey extract reduced cholesterol levels by 39% in patients with high levels of fats in their blood. The study found these health benefits occurred after only a month of taking earl grey.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile offers a mild and floral taste. It can be enjoyed alone but is also often blended with other herbs to create delicious infusions. The leaf has been used as a natural remedy for hundreds of years, so it’s no surprise that chamomile tea carries many health benefits.
Drinking chamomile tea can calm skin conditions such as eczema and allergies. Chamomile lotion has long been used as a topical treatment for skin conditions and several studies, including a 2010 study by NCBI have suggested that the tea has the same effect when ingested.
Mint infusions
Many studies have been conducted regarding the health properties of mint. It seems that the tiny leaf carries a lot more than just a beautiful scent. Mint freshens our breath, first and foremost. This isn’t just due to the smell; mint contains anti-bacterial properties that fight plaque. The composition of mint also means it can clear sinuses, alleviate the symptoms of a cold and prevent migraines.
With so many herbal teas to choose from, this list can help to guide you in the right direction when picking your hot drink. Why not try fennel-based teas for a to detox?
