Herbs contain natural chemical phyto-substances which produce a wide range of actions on animal and human physiology. Most of these substances help our health by supporting many of the body’s biological functions and its natural healing processes. Many of them also help in improving our mental health and psychological well-being by calming and soothing our nerves, and by easing tension in our muscles so as to give overall relaxation.
Select a suitable tea according to preference, for a particular requirement, or for a health condition. Teas of the flowers and fruits of plants are very pleasant to drink for relaxation. They also contain the plants’ essences which act on our bodies and minds to relieve stresses, calm anxieties and encourage good health. Herbal teas are best drunk singly to appreciate their real flavor.
This is especially so if the tea is drunk for relaxation. You can also mix herbal tea to get the benefits from each of the tea. However, a blend of only 2 or 3 types is recommended in order to achieve the desired effects and still make for a pleasant drink. For treating health problems, you can mix several types of herbal teas together to get a holistic effect. Use about 1 teaspoon of each herb in the mix. Drink the tea mix 3 times a day for at least 1 week and up to 1 month for best results. Certain herb teas should not be consumed during pregnancy, during breastfeeding or in conjunction with certain proprietary medication. Check for cautionary information, warning labels or ask your health care provider for guidance. Stop drinking any herb tea if you experience an adverse reaction to it. Many herbs provide multiple actions, and it should be possible to substitute the reactive herb with another non-reactive herb.
In preparing a cup of fresh herb tea, there are simple tips to remember in order to brew the best cup for you. First of, remember to always make fresh tea to drink, and drink it at one sitting. And use only china or glass cups and teapots. Allow one cup or 200 ml of water per single serving of herb, and bring the water to the boil. Measure 1 rounded teaspoon of the herb or tea leaves per cup.
Then, put the herb or tea leaves into the clean, warmed cup or teapot and pour the correct amount of freshly boiled water over it. Also, you may place the herb or tea leaves into a clean unbleached teabag before pouring in the boiled water. Cover the cup or teapot and leave to brew for 5 to 10 minutes.
A little honey may be added to sweeten. Alternatively, add a pinch of salt. Drink and enjoy the tea while it is still hot. And, for a refreshing drink in hot weather, add ice cubes to freshly-made tea.
As with how to drink teas for best results, there are also certain tips to remember. First is, to drink herbal teas between meals, or before bedtime. In doing so, make a fresh lot of herb tea each time it is drunk.
Remember to use only good quality dried herbs which has not gone past its ‘best by’ date. Or use fresh herbs, preferably organic. Herb teas for better health are usually taken 3 times a day. Regular drinking of herb teas improves our bodies’ lymphatic and circulatory systems, and supports the natural detoxifying processes of the body. To get the best effects of herbal tea when taken for health reasons, drink the tea daily for at least 1 week and up to 1 month.
