Since antiquity, herbal teas have been enjoyed and applied therapeutically throughout numerous cultures.
Herbal tea is known to have the ability to support specific health conditions and improve overall health.
In this article, we’ll discuss what herbal teas are, their history, and explore the health benefits of drinking herbal teas.
Table of Contents
What is Herbal Tea?
Herbal tea, also called tisane, is similar to green tea, however, instead of green tea leaves, it contains a blend of herbs, spices, and fruit. Many herbal teas are caffeine free, which is why they are typically known for their relaxing properties.
Herbal tea can be made via hot or cold water infusions as well as by long-steep decoctions for heavier plant material like bark and dried berries.
Herbal teas often taste good and are an easy way to receive therapeutic herbal properties. They’re also one of the simplest ways to extract beneficial active constituents from herbs.
Health Benefits of Herbal Tea
Below is a list of various benefits of herbal teas for the body and mind.
1. May Promote Sleep
Lack of sleep can significantly affect energy levels, physical recovery, brain functions, and more. Herbal tea can improve sleep by encouraging relaxation, sedating, soothing anxiety, and reducing pain. Tea can be especially helpful for managing stress and anxiety.
Some popular sleep-promoting herbs include:
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla): Chamomile has a floral and slightly bitter flavor. It is known for its gentle, relaxing effect on the nervous system.
- Passion Flower (Passiflora incarnata): Passionflower is known for its ability to impart deep relaxation and encourage a greater quality of sleep.
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Valerian is a popular herb for sleep as it has been shown to have relaxing, sleep-inducing effects.
- Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora): Skullcap supports sleep by soothing cyclical thoughts and reducing anxious sensations.
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia): Lavender is a popular aromatic herb known for its various calming and relaxing properties.
Click here to read our in-depth article on the best herbs for sleep.
2. May Improve Energy
Low energy levels throughout the day can be frustrating and challenging to manage.
Some herbal teas have energy-boosting properties, like rhodiola, eleuthero, schisandra, and ashwagandha, while others work with the stress response to balance out energy levels.
Some popular herbs that support energy include:
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to regulate the stress response for more balanced energy levels.
- Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea): Rhodiola supports increased energy levels by affecting mental focus and physical performance.
- Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Cordyceps are a species of mushroom that support energy levels through its potential to increase physical endurance by encouraging vasodilation.
- Asian Ginseng (Panax ginseng): Asian ginseng may benefit energy levels by supporting mental endurance and clarity.
- Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Rosemary is a potent herb known for its ability to support energy levels through increased cognitive functioning.
Click here to read our in-depth article on the best herbs for energy.
3. May Support The Gastrointestinal Tract
Numerous health conditions can affect the gastrointestinal tract, including nausea, bloating, gas, Crohn’s disease, and indigestion (heartburn or acid reflux).
Herbal teas, specifically bitter herbal teas, are known for their ability to potentially promote digestion, soothe inflammation, and ease the effects of these conditions.
Herbs that may support the gastrointestinal tract include:
- Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Dandelion is a pervasive herb that contains bitter properties in the leaves and is known for encouraging digestion through increased bile secretion.
- Elecampane (Inula helenium): Elecampane is a root that may help with indigestion due to its bitter properties.
- Ginger (Zingiber officina