Herbal Teas for Healing
The Variety of Herbs Available in Tea Form is a Warm Way to Recover
Jan 30, 2009
There are teas available in many different brands and combinations of herbs to treat a specific cause. Each herb has its own specific properties that lend itself to certain areas of the body. For example, a tea that is created for the purpose of stabilizing blood sugar may combine both Burdock and Ginger since these both calm spiking glucose levels.
Teas That Aid Digestion
Teas that are great for aiding in stimulating digestive juices have bitter properties. Combinations of herbs such as dandelion, chamomile, cardamom, fennel, ginger, and sage all soothe the stomach. Sometimes, peppermint and spearmint are added for a better flavor.
Cardamom and fennel have additional benefits with digestion in that they are both known to ease stomach cramps and reduce gas. Yarrow leaves and flowers in tea have been said to improve appetite and improve digestion.
Teas That Calm the Nerves
Not only is holding a mug filled with hot tea calming in itself; there are many herbal teas that can calm your nervous system. Any tea that contains passionflower, chamomile, kava kava root, damania, lemon balm, motherwort, skullcap, St. John’s Wort, valerian and sage will make you feel more relaxed. While most of these herbs can also be taken in capsule form in higher doses, some prefer to make the tea three times per day.
Kava kava and passionflower are most common to treat anxiety and have mild tranquilizing properties. Either of these herbs would work well combined with any of the herbs mentioned above. Chamomile and kava kava would be especially helpful in aiding with sleep and St. John’s Wort will help to improve your mood.
Even though these herbs are all natural, one should first always consult their physician before starting an herbal regimen. St John's Wort has been known to interact or counteract certain medications like SSRI's, MAOI Inhibitors, and oral contraceptives to name a few. Also, you should not take Kava Kava if you have liver or kidney disease. The herb affects the liver similarly to alcohol.
Teas that Cleanse
A lot of times people who are on a detox or cleansing regimen will use one of these teas in addition to their diet. The herbs in these teas are also a great herbal supplement to everyday eating habits. Teas that contain burdock, dandelion, nettle, green tea, hawthorne berry, and milk thistle all stimulate the liver. They also help to remove toxins from other organs in the body and promote overall wellness.
Teas that Regulate Blood Sugar
A Web MD article states that black tea and green tea are good for people that have Diabetes. Other herbs that are helpful in stabilizing blood sugar are burdock, chamomile, and ginger. Ginger also helps to improve circulation. A tea that contains yarrow is good for those suffering from high blood pressure.
Teas for Colds
Tea that helps ease cold and flu symptoms are those made from chamomile, echinacea, fennel, or ginger. To include with any of these some rosehip pods would be beneficial since it contains a high amount of vitamin C and antioxidants. Teas that are good for coughs and congestion usually contain sage or yarrow.
Whether making your own tea or buying it from a local health food store; medicinal herbs have plenty more health benefits than hindrances. Just be sure that when brewing a cup that you place a saucer or plate on top to keep the steam inside and get the full benefit of the herbs.
