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In many cultures and traditional ancient medicinal systems, including traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic Doctrine, heavily practised in India and Nepal European, Cloister Medicine and African and South American tribal wisdom, herbs have long been used for various medical purposes. The medicinal use of herbs in Western cultures has its roots in the Hippocratic (Greek) elemental healing system.
Herbal teas are very similar to the tea we drink every day, but they contain a blend of herbs, spices, fruits or other plants in addition to tea leaves. Lots of herbal teas don’t contain caffeine, which is why they’re known for their calming properties.
While some teas claim more health advantages than others, there’s plenty of evidence that regularly drinking tea can have a lasting impact on your wellness. So, what are the benefits?
Rejuvenating
Herbal tea can be super refreshing, not just on the palate but when for the body too. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious, simply sitting down with a gentle cup of tea could be just the remedy you need. For example, Camomile, an infusion to enjoy in its own right and also an ingredient in other teas, is known for encouraging relaxation and helping you get the sleep you need, which helps the body to stay strong and fresh.
Cleansing
Certain herbal tea infusions are best enjoyed after a meal. For example, Peppermint and other minty fresh teas can be naturally soothing with an aroma that awakens the senses. Peppermint tea fans also describe it as naturally uplifting even though it is free from caffeine. On a side note, peppermint oil has been studied for its effects on digestive issues with truly positive results.
Healing
Herbal preparations and infusions have a long tradition as household remedies and bear the power to relieve and ease several discomforts. Common examples of associated benefits and functional properties of herbs include: fennel as a digestive aid, sage as an anti-convulsive, Valeria can promote and support sleep, lavender can be calming and relaxing and nettle acts a natural diuretic, cleansing leaf.
Green tea deserves a heading in and of itself as people have been hailing its powers for centuries. Unlike other herbal teas in that it contains caffeine, a daily cuppa has been known to help restore both the body and the mind. Many green tea fans reportedly see it as a drink for moments of mindfulness, for a feel-good ‘me’ moment with some suggesting that it feels like they have chosen a healthier option.
Fruit and herbal infusions can be consumed as a refreshing and tasty drink, hot or cold and they say there is a herb for every single ache. So, the next time you’re offered a cup of tea, head for the herbs!
Recently launching two new members to their natural infusions family, Barry’s TEa Infusions Range Master Blender, Denis Daly, said that it was in direct response to people wanting more calming options for their daily elevenses break. “Our new infusion, Focus, contains natural botanicals of apple, hibiscus, spearmint & ginseng with the added benefit of Vitamin B6 which contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Protect is the second addition to our range. It’s a blend containing all the delicious ingredients we like to take over the winter months with a mixture of echinacea, ginger, cinnamon, lemon peel and the added benefit of Vitamin C.”
Barry’s Tea Focus and Protect infusions are now available in Dunnes Stores or online. Focus and Protect are priced at €3.95 RRP.