user To say that I’m a tea hoarder would be harsh, but I’ll admit that I might have a problem. Some people buy purses or shoes; I buy tea. At any given time I have at least 20 boxes or tins of different tea varieties and yet I can’t stop myself from buying more. As corny as this may sound, tea relaxes me on a spiritual level. There’s nothing better than sitting down with a cup of tea and a book in the middle of the afternoon. C.S. Lewis is quoted “You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.” I’ll agree with him on the tea front but maybe not about the book. I love to read but 1000 plus pages will usually keep me away.
You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me.
C.S. Lewis
The benefit of tea has been understood for thousands of years! Before modern-day medicines, there were teas. In cultures around the world known for longevity and health, you’ll find tea as a staple in their diets. There are oodles of studies out there showing that drinking certain varieties of teas can help with cancer, cholesterol, sleep, mental brain function, and more.
Drinking a daily cup of tea will surely starve the apothecary.
Chinese Proverb
Types of Teas and Their Benefits
Technically tea is classified as being either black, yellow, green, oolong, white, or pu-erh. I’m going to mainly focus on green and herbal teas because I find that is where I do most of my tea drinking. Most herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free and allow me to drink tea all day. Below are some of my favorite teas and their potential health benefits. I’ve also included a handy infographic you can use to find a tea to suit your specific needs. Of course, you don’t need to drink tea just for its health benefits. I am confident you’ll find varieties that are delicious and satisfying.
Green Tea
Green tea does have caffeine so I limit my consumption to morning or very early afternoon. Studies show that green tea can help with type II diabetes, coronary diseases, and many types of cancers.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea is a red herbal tea from South Africa. It has an earthy, smoky flavor. It reminds me of a sweet pipe. It’s high in antioxidants (cardiovascular benefits) and low in tannins. Tannins, found in many teas, could possibly interfere with the absorption of iron. Black tea tends to be highest in tannins while green tea on the lower end. Tannins have many health benefits but if you are concerned about your iron levels, choose herbal teas that are lower in tannins.
Sleepy Time Teas
I’m lumping several teas in this category because they are widely known for aiding in sleep. You’ll find that many tea brands will blend several of these teas together to create a calming blend that not only works but also has a pleasant taste. The blends will typically include chamomile, lavender, valerian, rose, lemon balm, and passionflower. Many companies will add mint or some other flavor to compliment the taste. Feel free to try out different brands to find a blend you enjoy.
Ginger & Other Gut Health Teas
When it comes to gut health, tea can be a major player. Remember when your mom gave you ginger ale when you had an upset stomach? She was onto something back then but most likely wasn’t giving you real ginger. Actual ginger really can soothe an achy tummy. Other teas that aid in digestion and gut health are peppermint, dandelion, senna, and fennel.
Turmeric & Other Teas for Inflammation
Turmeric has been on the radar lately for its anti-inflammatory properties. It just happens to make a great tea so it’s a natural addition to your collection. I am currently enjoying a tea blend from Trader Joe’s that is both ginger and turmeric. Other teas that are good for inflammation are chamomile, rosehip, rooibos, and Tulsi. Tulsi, or holy basil, has a fantastic licorice flavor. I’m not a fan of black licorice but I do love this tea.
I hope I have piqued your interest in tea drinking. I would love to hear some of your favorite teas and how you enjoy them throughout the day.
