Why You Should Drink Tea to Boost Your Immunity
Some people swear by the benefits of a hot cup of tea to help fight colds. Others swear by it for its immune-boosting and even mood-lifting qualities. So, what is the truth about this fabled beverage? And how does it work?
Trying to find concrete answers about the popular drink can be difficult, as scientists are still unsure about all the ways that tea can affect your health. But like with anything in life, moderation is key — so try not to overdo it with your morning cuppa!
These days, we often rely on chemicals and additives to make our food and beverages more palatable and/or efficient to maximize our time, so it’s not that surprising that the same applies to tea! The main ingredient actually has nothing to do with the tea itself — it is the process of fermentation that makes teas healthier over time.
What health benefits can you find in tea?
Since tea contains many good ingredients, the list of health benefits can be quite long, and is as wide-ranging as the different types of teas. Tea has been used for centuries as a remedy for colds, indigestion, infections and stomach problems. The most well-known (and more scientific) health claims about tea are based on studies claiming that it helps fight various ailments.
You might already have some idea about the supposed effects of drinking it because you’ve heard people talking about how the beverage can help combat coughs, sore throats and even sore muscles. But there are several other ways tea has been proven to promote healthy living.
Tea is high in polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants of the sort that help protect cells from damage by free radicals and other chemicals that can cause health problems. This offers extra benefits because antioxidants limit the amount of damage to healthy cells in your body. Tea also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with certain types of pain (similar to aspirin and ibuprofen). A recent study has also shown that green tea may lessen the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) in your body.
Some studies have even found that drinking tea can not only help prevent colds and flu, but can actually reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. Read on to learn about key tea ingredients and their cold-fighting and immune-boosting properties!
GINGER is well-known for treating colds, because it is believed to help alleviate symptoms such as sore throats and coughs. Ginger is a warming herb that helps relieve pain. This root also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help muscle pain caused by exercise or a cold. Have an upset stomach from medicine? You should definitely add some ginger into your diet, and ginger teas are perfect for just that!
LEMON is good for you because it contains vitamin C, which helps the body fight off infections. This is especially true if the body is deficient in vitamin C, which can happen during cold and flu season when your immune system is already weakened. It is also good for your heart and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease sore muscles and joints. Can’t clear your throat? Squeeze some fresh lemon juice into your tea to help break up the mucus.
PEPPERMINT has been used for a long time to help ease multiple cold and flu symptoms. The menthol in the leaves helps as a cough suppressant (ever wonder why most cough drops contain menthol?). It also helps clear your sinuses, which can also help reduce a fever. And the best part? Peppermint is tasty!
HIBISCUS contains many antioxidants which help fight off cold and flu while also providing a wide range of other health benefits. In addition to these immune-boosting properties, it also helps treat indigestion and also boosts energy.
CHAMOMILE is an herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to help calm the body and mind. Having difficulties getting to sleep? Brew a cup of chamomile tea an hour before bed to help soothe both your mind and body for a good night’s rest.
There are so many different types of wholesome healthy ingredients in tea! If you’re not sure where to start, try a blend that has one or two of the ingredients above (try our Immunity Boost loose leaf tea blend for a lemony winter brew!). We recommend brewing for a little longer to increase potency and maximize benefits for days when you’re really not feeling your best. Adding honey helps soothe the throat (and gives that irresistible flavor we all know and love when we are feeling under the weather).
What are some of your favorite go-to teas for cold and flu season? (tell us in the comments below!)
“Immunity Boost”
Tea: Herbal
Product Link: https://steeprootstea.com/product/immunity-boost/
Body: Medium to High
Caffeine Strength: Caffeine-free!
