In Ayurveda, herbal teas are not just comforting drinks. They also offer many health benefits.
The herbs and spices used in these teas are specifically chosen for their medicinal properties and their capacity to balance the Doshas.
These natural remedies have been used for centuries for overall wellness, making them an integral part of Ayurvedic practices.
Benefits of Herbal Tea
Herbal teas, in addition to their delightful flavors, offer an array of health benefits. Specifically, they:
- Reduce stress The body can better handle stress because of the adaptogenic qualities of herbs, like Aparajita.
- Improve digestion: Pepper and asafoetida, among other ingredients, not only promote healthy digestion but also reduce gas and discomfort.
- Detoxify: Herbs like neem and turmeric, for instance, help the body rid itself of toxins and, moreover, purify the blood.
- Improve Immunity: The infection-fighting properties of herbs, such as Ajwain, not only help boost immunity but also enhance overall health.
- Promote sleep: Teas made with herbs like chamomile and Blue Pea flower soothe the mind, thus improving your sleep quality.
While herbal teas offer many health benefits, it is important to remember that all of these herbs mentioned here may not be suitable for you. It’s always better to consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor before you consume any herbs.
More Ayurvedic Benefits of Herbal Teas
Hydration with a purpose
Most of us are well aware that we need to drink more water. But some people find drinking plain water boring. If you’re one of them, try herbal teas occasionally for a change. They provide flavour and hydration. As opposed to caffeinated drinks which dehydrate, herbal teas replenish the fluids and nourish your body. Being caffeine-free, they are a healthier alternative to traditional teas and coffee.
Balancing the elements
According to Ayurveda, a Dosha imbalance leads to diseases in the body. Herbal teas can act as gentle healers, bringing back the balance. If your body is feeling too hot because of excess Pitta, cooling herbs such as coriander can help balance that heat. If you are a little sluggish from too much Kapha, choose a warming ginger-cinnamon tea to wake you up in an organic way.
Aiding emotional well-being
Ever noticed how a cup of tea feels like a warm hug? Ayurveda explains this so beautifully. There are some herbs which affect our emotions directly. For instance, Brahmi tea clears the head and relieves brain fog; chamomile tea helps fight anxiety. That’s why having tea isn’t simply about sipping on something warm, it’s a way of caring for yourself from the inside out.
Ayurvedic Herbal Tea Recipes
Here are some recipes of herbal teas that serve different purposes. Furthermore, they can provide various health benefits and enhance your overall well-being.
Anti-Anxiety Herbal Tea
This tea is cooling in nature; moreover, it helps with better sleep, reduces anxiety, calms and relaxes the mind, and improves memory. It also works great for people with hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypothyroidism.
Ingredients:
Fresh blue pea flowers
Ajwain leaves
Water
How to prepare:
- Take fresh blue pea flowers and remove the stalks
- Add them to boiling (hot) water and let them steep
- Add ajwain leaves for flavor and digestion
- Drink after dinner
You can also prepare the tea by adding the flowers and ajwain leaves in water and boiling it.
As an Ayurvedic doctor, this tea is part of my daily nighttime routine. It helps me relax after a hectic day!
Herbal tea for digestion (Bharittha Tea)
Bharittha tea, on the other hand, is perfect to drink after having a heavy meal. It alleviates gas, bloating, and indigestion.
The tea also improves the digestive fire or Agni, scrapes off (Lekhana) the excess fat from food, and subsides Vata and Kapha Doshas.
This Bharittha tea recipe is from the Ayurvedic text – Yogaratnakara. Moreover, it highlights the importance of holistic health.
Ingredients:
- Water
- Lemon
- Pepper
- Himalayan Pink Salt
- Asafoetida
How to Prepare:
- Boil a glass of water
- Add a squeeze of lemon to the water
- Add some pepper, asafoetida, and Himalayan pink salt
- And your tea is ready
Caution: Avoid this tea if you suffer from acidity, acid reflux, or heartburn.
Licorice tea
This tea is my absolute favourite.
It has helped me a lot; moreover, it is a great replacement for morning coffee.
This is the best thing to drink every morning (in all seasons) for your skin, hair, digestion, and overall health.
Licorice acts as a natural coolant for the stomach and helps reduce inflammation in the throat. This tea also boosts your energy levels naturally.
Ingredients:
- Licorice root
- Water
How to Prepare:
- Add 1-inch piece of licorice root to 2 glasses of water and reduce to 1 glass.
Caution: Licorice is not recommended for you if you suffer from hypertension; moreover, if you have a family history of the condition, it is also advised to avoid it. Also, take it for a maximum period of 3 months and stop for a while.
More Ayurvedic Teas for Specific Concerns
- Tea for seasonal allergies: Boil tulsi leaves, black pepper, and a pinch of rock salt in water. It clears nasal congestion and strengthens immunity.
- Tea for weight management: Cumin, coriander, and fennel seeds steeped in hot water can support digestion and help manage weight.
- Tea for glowing skin: A mix of rose petals, fennel, and licorice can promote clear, radiant skin by balancing Pitta.
- Tea for menstrual cramps: A soothing blend of ginger, ajwain, and jaggery helps reduce period pain naturally.
Herbal teas are more than just drinks. They are a way to nourish your body, calm your mind, and connect with ancient Ayurvedic wisdom.
When you ditch your regular tea and coffee for herbal teas, you’re giving your body something better – natural goodness, steady energy and a break from caffeine, all while supporting your overall well-being.
The next time you sip a cup of herbal tea, take a moment to enjoy the process. Let it be a mindful experience rather than just a habit.
So, which herbal tea is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
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