Teas & Their Benefits
Tea-drinking culture has been influenced by both socioeconomic and political habits and has gained massive popularity in the West over the past centuries. In fact, tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world and it’s enjoyed in almost every country on the globe!
It should come as no surprise that this hot (or cold!) beverage is so loved; there are tons of benefits that we can reap from drinking tea. Read on below to find out why teas make such a great ally to your health––and to your skincare.
LESS CAFFEINE
Some teas, like green and black, contain caffeine—so they can technically replace your morning cup of java. However, they generally have less of it, and their energy spike (and subsequent crash) aren’t as flagrant.
For example, green tea also contains L-theanine, which slows the absorption of caffeine by the brain. This allows you to still enjoy the benefits of caffeine, without the jitters and other caffeine-related annoyances.
FLAVONOIDS
It has been studied that the compounds in tea, called flavonoids, are great for the heart and may even reduce the probability of cancer.
Flavonoids possess a number of medicinal benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. They also have neuroprotective and cardio-protective effects. Of course, these biological activities depend upon the type of flavonoid, its (possible) mode of action, and its bioavailability––but we’ll take these benefits nonetheless!
COUNTLESS PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Various teas tackle different ailments or discomforts. Since there are so many to choose from, here are some of the most popular herbal teas and their uses:
- Chamomile tea: Helps to reduce menstrual pain and muscle spasms, improves sleep and relaxation, and reduces stress.
- Rooibos: Improves blood pressure and circulation, boosts good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol, keeps hair strong and skin healthy, and provides relief from allergies.
- Peppermint: Contains menthol, which can soothe an upset stomach and serve as a cure for constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and motion sickness. This tea variety also offers pain relief from tension headaches and migraines.
- Ginger: Helps to fight against morning sickness, can be used to treat chronic indigestion and helps to relieve joint pain caused by osteoarthritis.
- Hibiscus: Lowers blood pressure and fat levels, improves overall liver health, can help starve off cravings for unhealthy sweets, and may prevent the formation of kidney stones.
TEA FOR THE BODY
Tea is packed with antioxidants that patrol free radicals in the body. This means that regular consumption will greatly help support all facets of skin health, and especially aging skin or irritation-based skin conditions.
Teas have great topical benefits as well. Many products utilize this natural remedy and incorporate specific florals into their formulations, aiming to tackle specific concerns like irritation or dryness.
Here are a few we carry:
DRUIDE TEA TREE OIL CARE SHAMPOO
R+CO TEA CUP PEACHOLINE + KOMBUCHA DETOX RINSE
EMINENCE ORGANICS TEA TREE & MINT HAND CLEANSER
OPTIONS TO AVOID
Nutritionists agree most tea is good tea. Still, they prefer brewed teas over bottled ones in order to avoid the extra calories and sweeteners. Other non-recommendations are:
- Detox teas made for fad diets that suggest you will quickly lose weight. These teas often come laced with laxatives, and that’s a no from us.
- Fancy tea lattes and drinks, loaded with sugar.
- Trendy bubble teas that are also loaded with sugar, calories, and carbs, and have little to no nutritional value.
Until next time, brew yourself a cup of tea and take a quiet moment of stillness for yourself. You won’t regret it, we promise!
The BSE Team