Lifestyle
ADITI BISWAS @InWords Mar 02, 2023, 14:15 IST
Herbal teas are herbal infusions made from the decoction of herbs, spices, or plant parts in hot water. It is a very popular beverage among the health-conscious. Herbal teas provide an array of colors and variety. You can expect anything from a refreshing Peppermint flavor to a zingy Lemongrass, a sweet-scented Chamomile to a sweet-sour Hibiscus. They can either be homemade or bought from the market. They are sometimes used for medicinal purposes as well, like as a remedy to heal a sore throat. But are herbal teas safe to drink?
- Tea vs Herbal Tea
Even though it is commonly referred to as herbal tea but an all-true tea is made from the leaves and buds of Camellia sinensis. Camellia sinensis leaves are used to produce the all-time popular Green Tea and black breakfast teas like Earl Grey. Even though these teas are known for their health benefits they come with the potential risk of going overboard with caffeine. An average cup of black tea packs 47 mg of caffeine but can contain as much as 90 mg. When used for a long time or in doses exceeding 400 mg daily it can cause insomnia, restlessness, nausea, increased heart rate, and other side effects. This is where Herbal Tea comes to the rescue. Herbal Tea is a 100% caffeine-free blend of various leaves, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers belonging to almost any edible, non-tea plant in hot water. It is less commonly called tisane, any plant-derived drink other than true tea. Herbal teas can be served either hot or cold. - Does Herbal Tea hydrate the body?
Most herbal teas are generally considered hydrating and can be counted as a cup of water when it comes to hydration. But are herbal teas safe to drink as a better replacement for water? Though it helps your hair, skin, mood, level of alertness, and just about every bodily function, other types of fluids like juice, milk, and tea can contribute to your overall hydration, but water shouldn’t be replaced with tea or other liquids. Drinking both will keep your body balanced. Herbal tea can be a relaxing and refreshing alternative drink to help you hit your daily water quota and can be just as hydrating as water— with the added herbal power benefits as well! - Are there any negative effects of herbal tea?
It should be consumed in moderation, not exceeding 3-4 cups per day. Excess consumption may have some adverse side effects. Are herbal teas safe to drink according to Dieticians? They recommend medical approval as it may pose some risks to individuals with certain health conditions. Negative effects include stomach problems, sleep issues, and headaches, among other problems. Overdose of certain teas can lead to toxicity in the body which can make you seriously ill. - Healthiest herbal teas
Chamomile Tea: It is popularly used as a sleep aid, to calm anxiety and depression.
Peppermint Tea: It is one of the most popularly used teas. It is commonly used for digestive tract health, it is also beneficial for weight loss, cold, and as a refreshing pick-me-up drink.
Ginger Tea: It is a concoction of powerful antioxidants. It helps in reducing inflammation and stimulates the immune system. Ginger tea also helps in relieving period pain.
Hibiscus Tea: It helps in reducing high blood pressure and fights oxidative stress.
Sage Tea: It nourishes the brain cells and is beneficial for the heart and colon health. - Herbal teas to avoid
Most experts strongly suggest avoiding herbal teas containing lobelia, sassafras, comfrey, tonka bean, wormwood, shave grass, burdock, pennyroyal, and poke root plant parts. People should also avoid teas with added flavors, sugar, or other artificial additives and filler materials. You can only reap the benefits of this herbal concoction if it’s 100% pure and organic. - Easy Homemade Herbal Tea recipes
Tulsi and Ginger Tea: Add some tulsi leaves and freshly grated ginger to boiling water in a saucepan and simmer on low flame for 5 to 7 minutes with the lid covered. Strain the liquid and pour it into a cup and enjoy your immunity-boosting, cold-relieving healthy concoction.
Peppermint Tea: Add some fresh peppermint leaves to boiling water, simmer it for 8 to 10 minutes or until desired strength is achieved and your refreshing tisane will be ready.
Lemon and Black Pepper Tea: Zest the sides of a fresh lemon and add it to hot water and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, strain and pour into a cup. Add black pepper and honey according to your taste. This is a superstar drink for cold winter mornings and also keeps a check on your weight.
FAQ
Are herbal teas safe to drink first thing in the morning?
Healthcare experts suggest not having herbal tea first thing in the morning. Even though they are decaffeinated most of them are diuretic in nature and may lead to frequent urination. After a full night’s sleep, the body is already dehydrated and frequent urination may lead to dehydration if hydration is not replenished properly. Some herbal teas are also acidic in nature and when had on an empty stomach they may disrupt the acid-base balance of the body.
Are herbal teas safe to drink with food?
It is advisable not to have herbal tea with food as it may inhibit the absorption of food in the digestive system.
Can you drink herbal tea before or after a meal?
Having herbal tea before or after a meal will interfere with the absorption of food in the same way as having it along with food. Absorption of iron and protein-rich foods is greatly affected when tea is consumed along with food. Herbal tea should ideally be had an hour before or an hour after a meal.
Can you drink herbal tea before bed?
Herbal teas have been used for a long time as a holistic way to improve sleep quality and induce a calming effect. So you can have a nice warm cup of chamomile tea an hour before bedtime for a sound sleep.
