We’ve shared the healing benefits of warm water immersion in a previous blog post; today, let’s take a dive into a different cup of warm water– herbal tea. Tea is more than a British tradition or caffeine alternative. In fact, many dried herbs consumed as tea are associated with wellness qualities and symptom relief – much like hot tubs. After hearing a friend discuss how she relies on peppermint tea to aid in indigestion, I began researching other natural herbal remedies and was surprised to see many common herbs like thyme and rosemary on the list.
Brewing herbal tea is as basic as boiling water. Here are some directions from Prevention.com for preparing and serving:
Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
Crush herb leaves and/or flowers, and place them in a dry teapot; or use tea bags. To assure potency, use only herbs that are fragrant.
Pour boiled water over the crushed herbs or tea bags. Let steep, covered, for the time indicated (The average time is 10 minutes for a medicinal effect).
If using crushed herbs, place a strainer over the tea cup, and pour.
Drink as needed, up to three times a day.
With the basics covered, read on for brews thought to help everything from an upset stomach to anxiety.
Chamomile – Commonly found in “sleepy-time” teas, this herb is associated with stress relief and easing insomnia.
Peppermint – Tummy trouble? The menthol-containing leaves aid in bloating and indigestion relief. As a bonus, the tea can help freshen up your breath!
Licorice Root – As a licorice candy lover, I was pleased to learn that licorice root tea has the same great flavor. It has historically been thought of as a healing herb with antiviral properties, although many of the benefits have yet to be proven scientifically.
Echinacea – There is no definitive answer – and much debate – around whether or not Echinacea prevents or cures the common cold. It is, however, widely accepted that its properties enhance the activity of the immune system and have antioxidant effects.
Rosehips – If you enjoy tea with berry or fruit flavors, chances are that it contains rosehips. This flavorful herb that forms the base of a rose blossom is hailed for its Vitamin C-packed immune-strengthening properties.
Thyme – Reach for the dried thyme when you have a cough or sinus pressure. This tea helps relax the bronchial spasms that cause fits of coughing. Use 2 tablespoons of dried thyme per cup of boiling water, then steep for 10 minutes and drink three times a day.
Rosemary – Laden with stress-induced headaches? Rosemary helps keep blood vessels dilated warding off headaches caused by vasoconstriction.
It is important to note that some of these herbs can interact with certain medications, so it is advised that you speak with a physician before making tea part of your daily routine. Once you get the word of approval, dust off your tea cup and saucer – or your usual coffee mug – and heat up the kettle. Then, relax into the comfort of your Caldera hot tub and experience the workings of warm water.
What’s your favorite kind of tea? Respond with a comment below or on Twitter @CalderaSpas.
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