Submitted by Morgana on
Herbal teas have been used for centuries to relieve common health issues and are still used today by herbalists all over the world. Herbal teas are different from regular teas (black, green, white or oolong) because they are made from the leaves, seeds, roots, bark and flowers of herbal plants and do not come from the true tea plant, camellia sinensis. Because herbal teas are not a true tea, the proper terms for them are infusions or tisanes.
Many herbal teas are packed with antioxidants, minerals and nutrients which help to make them powerful for medicinal purposes. And, compared to regular teas which contain high amounts of caffeine, herbal teas are generally caffeine free.
Herbal Teas for Common Health Issues
Herbal teas are used for everything from relieving a common headache to relieving inflammation and helping to boost memory. Here are some common ailments and the herbal teas which can help to relieve them:
Digestion Problems
Dandelion tea can help to alleviate digestion troubles. Use 1 teaspoon of dried leaves for every cup of water. Add honey, lemon or mint to enhance flavor.
Ginger root tea is another effective tea for digestion. Peel and cut 1 inch of ginger root for every 2 cups of water. Boil for 15 to 20 minutes, strain and serve. Add lemon or honey for added flavor.
Enhance Immune System
Echinacea, which is known for enhancing the immune system, can be made into a tea. Boil 1 teaspoon dried Echinacea herb in one cup of water for 12 to 15 minutes. Add a small slice of ginger root for flavor. Strain before drinking. You may also add a little lemon juice and honey to enhance flavor.
Rose hips is another immune strengthener and is packed full of vitamin C. Boil 4 to 6 dried rose hips in 2 cups of water for 30 minutes and then strain before drinking. You may wish to add sweetener.
Headaches
Peppermint tea helps to soothe and relieve a headache. Use 1 tablespoon leaves for each cup of tea.
Rosemary tea contains antiseptic properties that can relieve a headache. Use 1 to 4 grams of dried leaf per cup of water. This tea can be bitter, so try adding honey to smooth out the taste.
Improve Memory
Blessed thistle has been used since the Middle Ages for many ailments including improving memory. You can use all parts of the blessed thistle plant, the root, flower and leaves, in preparing tea. Boil 1 to 3 dried blessed thistle plants in a cup of water for 15 minutes and strain before drinking. This tea can be bitter, so add some lemon or honey for flavoring.
Ginkgo biloba is a popular herb used to improve memory and is even effective for dementia and Alzheimer's patients. Boil 1 teaspoon of dried ginkgo leaf in one cup of water for 15 minutes and then strain before drinking. It is recommended to drink 3 cups a day.
Insomnia
Valerian tea helps to calm muscles, tension and restlessness in order to help you sleep. Use 1 teaspoon of dried herb for every cup of tea.
Chamomile tea is also effective in curing insomnia. Add 1 tablespoon of flower head to 1 cup of water and boil for 10 minutes.
Relieve Inflammation
Pau d'arco is one of the most effective herbs for inflammation whether you are suffering from arthritis pain or a simple sore throat. Pau d'arco comes from the inner bark of the tree of the same name and can easily be made into a tea. Boil 15 to 20 grams of bark in 2 cups of water for 10 minutes, then strain before drinking.
Skullcap is also an effective treatment for inflammation. Boil 1 tablespoon of dried skullcap in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes, then strain before drinking. You can also add 1 tablespoon of chamomile when boiling if desired.
Preparing Herbal Tea
There are many prepared herbal teas available for purchase or you can choose to make your own. Generally, herbal teas are prepared by pouring hot or boiling water over the leaves or flowers of an herbal plant and allowing it to brew for several minutes before straining the tea to drink. For roots or seeds, it is best to boil them for several minutes before using them to make tea. Some teas are bitter and it may be necessary to add spices, mix in other herbs or add honey to make them palatable. Herbal teas can also be served cold, prepared just as you would prepare regular iced tea.
Herbal teas can be a healthy alternative to taking medication for everyday health concerns. However, if you are already taking prescription medications or have any type of serious health condition, it is important to consult your doctor before using any type of herbal tea. Also, never give young children herbal teas unless directed by a doctor. Using herbal teas in a responsible way can be effective in helping relieve common health issues.
Sources:
The Complete Guide to Herbal Medicines
Springhouse Corporation 2000