Health

5 Herbs To Include In Your Herbal Tea

18th November 2017

By Harriet Mallinson | Published on November 18, 2017


More and more people are trying to steer clear of the caffeine in breakfast tea and coffee these days and turn to healthier alternatives (as well as ones that don’t stain your teeth!)

Herbal teas are an excellent way to make sure you keep your water intake high while ingesting powerful herbs and spices.

MACROS have decided to focus on just five potent ingredients that you should look to have in your next cuppa.

 

Red ginseng

The ginseng root has been a highly-prized herb for thousands of years. Red ginseng is well known for its uplifting properties and for nourishing the adrenal glands, which produce a variety of hormones, including adrenaline.

An adaptogen ginseng can improve the body’s ability to cope with stress by modifying the release of stress hormones. The herb will enhance strength and endurance, support the nervous system and protect against exhaustion.

Research has shown that it can prevent the growth of tumors and even stop the spread of cancer cells as well lessen the severity of heart disease symptoms. In China, it’s used as a treatment for diabetes.

It also supports muscle regeneration, enhances mental and physical performance. It also boosts libido and Korean red ginseng has long been to treat impotence.

 

Tulsi

Deeply rooted in Indian culture, this revered leaf – also known as Holy Basil – has been used for centuries to support the immune system and improve the body’s response to physical and mental challenges.

Tulsi improves circulation to the brain, reducing mental fogginess and improving concentration, memory and mental clarity.  It is also rich in antioxidants, famed for their anti-aging properties by protecting the body’s cells from damage.

Like red ginseng, tulsi has been classified as an adaptogenic herb and helps restore balance to the body. It can also relieve fevers, alleviate respiratory disorders and can protect against diabetes.

 

Turmeric

Turmeric is a herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, native to southern Asia. It is gathered for the rhizomes (subterranean stems that send out roots and shoots).

Recent research suggests that one cup of turmeric tea contains an army of antioxidants – the same antioxidant levels as seven avocados or two handfuls of blueberries – to fight off nasty free radicals which can otherwise damage the skin and age our bodies.

The renowned super-spice is also a powerful anti-inflammatory, targets pain, enhances circulation, protects the brain and rejuvenates the liver.

According to the Handbook of Herbs and Spices, edited by K. V. Peter: “Oral administration of turmeric is said to be effective against flatulence, indigestion, diarrhoea, bilary and hepatic disorders and anorexia.” It also credited with anticancer properties.

 

– RELATED: Ashwagandha: What Is It And Why Should We Take It? –

 

Lemon essential oil

Lemon oil, cold-pressed from the rinds of lemons, is high in Vitamin C which makes it a powerful warrior in strengthening the immune system.

It further stimulates white blood cells which increases our ability to fight off disease. It also protects capillaries, improves circulation and removes toxins from the blood.

It stimulates the digestive and metabolic processes as well as supporting stomach problems such as indigestion, acidity and cramps. Not only that, but adding lemon oil can help reduce the chance of overeating and thus is helpful in aiding weight loss.

The oil is also great for battling sore throats (try with hot water and honey) and clearing congestion.

 

Green tea leaf

Antioxidant-rich green tea leaf provides long-lasting energy and supports physical endurance.  Green tea can help create a barrier against the dangers of free radicals can pose, helping to boost core energy levels and raising inner vitality. Not to mention the benefits it can bring for boosting the functioning of the brain, heart and skin.

Whilst green tea does contain some caffeine it contains a lot less than coffee. But the primary reason that green tea is a better choice is thanks to its content of a natural substance called L-theanine, which is virtually unique to the tea plant. L-theanine has been found to have a relaxing effect on the mind, reduce anxiety, and help with focus and concentration.