Health benefits of herbal teas

Drinking herbal tea is a great way of getting the therapeutic effects of herbs, increasing your fluid intake and aiding relaxation by taking the time to make and drink a comforting and warming infusion.

This is an overview of some common herbal teas and their health benefits.

Chamomile

Also called the ‘mother of the gut’ this herb can aid digestion and soothe the digestive tract, including colic in children. It can also help reduce anxiety and promote sleep.

Can also be used topically to soothe the skin and as a steam inhalation for a cold with airway congestion.

Dandelion

Dandelion leaf is traditionally used to reduce water retention due to its diuretic effects. The root is a gentle laxative. Dandelion is also a great herb for liver support.

Do not take dandelion leaf if you are on diuretic medication.

Fennel

Fennel helps to soothe the digestive tract and relieves indigestion. Suitable for all ages it is also useful for colic in babies.

Very safe herb for all ages.

Ginger

Ginger can help reduce feelings of nausea and aid digestion. It also stimulates blood circulation and can help to ‘warm you up from the inside’.

Do not drink large amounts during pregnancy although 1-2 cups per day can help to relieve morning sickness.

Ideally use fresh chopped ginger root in the infusion.

Lemon Balm

Refreshing herb which can help to reduce anxiety and lift mood as well as aids digestion.

Dried or fresh leaves can be used. Very nice hot or cold with a slice of lemon.

Nettle

Nettle helps to nourish and detoxify as it is rich in vitamins and minerals. A good all around tonic. Can help allergies due to its anti-histamine properties.

Dried or fresh leaves can be used.

Peppermint

Peppermint supports digestion and can help to relieve nausea, lovely after a big meal. It can also be beneficial for colds and headaches.

Dried or fresh leaves can be used.

Rosehip

Rosehips contain high levels of Vitamin C and can help to support the immune system. Great to take at the beginnings of a cold or when feeling a bit run down.

Sage

Sage is a good anti-microbial and can be useful as a gargle for sore throats. Drunk cold, it can help to relieve menopausal flushes.

Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding as sage may reduce breast milk.

Thyme

Thyme is a useful anti-septic for respiratory infections such as cold and coughs, either as a tea or as a gargle to relieve sore throats.

How to make an infusion

You can use either fresh herbs from the garden or dried loose leaf or teabags.

Fresh herbs:

Use a handful of herbs per pint of water. Rinse the herbs, put them in a teapot and cover with a pint of boiling water. Leave to infuse covered for at least 10 minutes and then strain.

Dried loose leaf herbs:

A general rule is 1 teaspoon of herb per cup of water. Infuse covered for 5-10 minutes before straining.

Teabags:

Use 2 good quality teabags per cup of water. Cover and leave to infuse for 5-10 minutes, then strain off.