Similar to my love for (or addiction to) coffee is my obsession for tea. A hot cup of tea, matched with some lemon and honey really hits the spot! Not only is this beverage tasty, it also provides many health benefits. Drinking tea regularly bolsters immune defenses, lowers the risk of heart disease and cancer, increases metabolism, and lowers blood pressure. Many of the vitamins and antioxidants we look for in foods and supplement pills can be found in teas. Tea can also give you that pick-me-up in the morning as a better alternative to coffee and energy drinks. Here are a few teas you can start drinking to sustain a healthier you!
Green Tea: Strengthens the cardiovascular system, aids in weight loss, and lowers blood pressure and cholesterol.
Tazo® Organic Zen Tazo® Gingerly Jasmine
Chamomile Tea: Promotes relaxation, helps maintain a normal sleeping cycle, and curbs the length of colds and fevers.
Jing Tea® Whole Chamomile Flowers Tazo® Calm Chamomile
Mint Tea: Soothes minor stomach discomforts, reduces bloating, and relieves muscle spasms.
Jing Tea® Peppermint Leaf Teavana® Cacao Mint Black Tea
Oolong Tea: Supports healthy skin and teeth, promotes cardiovascular and cellular health, and relieves physical and mental stress.
Teavana® Anjou Pear-adise Jing Tea® Phoenix Honey Orchid
Ginger Tea: Relieves nausea, headaches, sore throats, and congestion.
Mighty Leaf® Ginger Twist Mighty Leaf® Bombay Chai
Adding some honey and lemon to your tea gives your cup an extra wholesome kick. Honey acts as a natural energy booster by giving you the right amount of carbohydrates to start the day. Honey is also used to relieve various ailments, including insomnia, sore throats, burns, and even hangovers. Lemon contains ample Vitamin C, as well as antiviral and antibacterial properties. Combined, they aid in proper immune functions, digestion, detoxification of the body, and prevention of illnesses.
Make sure your cup of tea is getting the most of all of the vitamins, antioxidants, essential oils, and other medicinal properties by steeping the loose tea or tea bags for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Making tea is just as quick and easy as making coffee. It is also fun to experiment and try different flavors and combinations…so drink up, collegiettes!