I've been a devout tea drinker since my teenage years. Both of my parents were coffee drinkers but tea was always the thing for me. Sure, I hopped onto the cappuccino craze in the late 80's but I find that it's hard on my stomach whereas so many teas are so soothing and beneficial to my health. Today I’ve picked my top six favorite teas that have a real, positive benefit to my day-to-day life: Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Lavender, Ginger, Green, Hibiscus, and Anise.
When I feel stressed, sipping on a cup of lion’s mane mushroom helps to calm my nerves. It has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that can help support the immune system. Studies show that lion’s mane can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and irritability, and I find it really works wonders. I enjoy it in the afternoon or in the evening knowing that it's helping me to enhance my focus and relax.
Another tea I love with a similar affect is lavender tea. Lavender tea has been found to produce a calming, mood boosting affect. Drinking a cup before bed also improves my sleep quality and helps me unwind from a long day. This is a good tea to create ritual around by taking a little break to recenter yourself. Gaze out your window, take some deep breaths, make some space in your day for a little mindful sipping and soothing.
Have you ever tried ginger tea? I love its warm spicy flavor and find it is excellent for digestion and easing nausea. This is my favorite tea to enjoy after dinner because it encourages effective digestion and can settle your stomach after eating. Although it can help with indigestion, colds, and inflammation pregnant women and people on blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare provider before enjoying a cup.
Green tea, with its light, refreshing, slightly grassy flavor, is also packed with antioxidants. It's excellent for boosting metabolism, improving brain function, and reducing the risk of heart disease. Ideal for anyone looking to enhance overall health as it improves longevity and counteracts inflammation and oxidative stress. It’s also a great, less caffeinated alternative to coffee and black tea, that promotes both executive and cognitive functions. Drinking green tea is wonderful for mental clarity and an increased level of focus., but those sensitive to caffeine or with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider. I like to sip on this wholesome brew for a daily wellness boost!
Hibiscus tea is also rich in antioxidants and has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol in clinical trials among the adult population. Hibiscus sabdariffa is a tropical flowering plant, the tea derived from it is tangy and sweet with a cranberry-like flavor. It can be enjoyed hot or cold. In the summertime I like to blend this sweet iced tea with seltzer for a little fizz. It's healthy and refreshing! However, if you're pregnant women or taking blood pressure medication you should avoid it.
And last but not least, Anise seed tea. You'll want to visit the spice aisle for this one. I steep about a teaspoon of Anise seed in 8 oz of water for about 10 minutes before drinking. It has a licorice-like flavor and is great for digestion, gas and bloating so it's especially good to have on hand when your meal just doesn't agree with you. If you're a fan of the flavor you can enjoy it in the evening to relax and unwind. It's perfect for those with digestive issues, but if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant, it's best to avoid it. Otherwise, sip on this soothing tea for a cozy, calming experience!
My truest desire is to live a long, healthy, productive life, helping others to create positive change in their lives. If you'd like support with a specific challenge, transition, or if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety, please feel free to schedule a complimentary consultation.
A note of caution: before embarking on any of these tea adventures please talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. Some of these teas may negatively interact with medications you might be taking or they may be inappropriate for you.
As always, I'm here to help,
Lourdes Laifer
@lourdes_laifer
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