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Uncover the incredible health benefits of herbal teas and discover why they have been cherished in traditional medicine for centuries. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into some of the most popular herbs used in herbal teas, including dandelion root, hops flower, valerian root, maca root and peppermint. Learn about their unique properties that can help improve sleep, support digestion, reduce anxiety, and balance hormones. Whether you're seeking natural remedies for everyday ailments or looking to boost your overall well-being, herbal teas offer a flavorful and enjoyable way to support your health journey. Read on to find out how you can make the most of these beneficial brews.
A brief overview of what you will find in the top 5 herbal teas and their benefits according to our guide:
1. Dandelion Root: Detox and Digestive Support
2. Hops Flower: Sleep Aid and Anxiety Relief
3. Valerian Root: Sleep Support and Emotional Well-being
4. Maca Root: Energy Booster and Hormonal Balance
5. Peppermint Tea: Digestive Relief and Mental Clarity
Dandelion root, a popular herb with a bitter and slightly earthy taste, has been used for centuries as a natural diuretic and to support liver and kidney function. Drinking dandelion root tea regularly can provide numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to your daily routine.
Hops flower, a key ingredient in brewing beer, is also a versatile herb with a distinct earthy scent and slightly bitter taste. For centuries, it has been used to promote restful sleep, reduce anxiety, and support digestive health. Drinking hops flower tea regularly can provide a range of health benefits and contribute to overall well-being.
Valerian root, a powerful herb native to Europe and Asia, has been used for centuries to promote restful sleep and reduce stress. Its distinct, earthy scent and mildly bitter taste make it a popular choice for herbal teas. Drinking valerian root tea regularly can help improve overall health and well-being.
Maca root, a herb native to the Andean mountains, is known for its nutty, slightly sweet taste, and numerous health benefits. For centuries, it has been used as a natural energy booster and hormone balancer, while also providing essential vitamins and minerals. Drinking maca root tea regularly can help improve overall health and well-being.
Peppermint is a widely recognized and versatile herb known for its refreshing flavour and numerous health benefits. Its leaves have been used for centuries in various applications, including herbal teas, to improve digestion, alleviate headaches, and provide a natural energy boost. With its cool, minty taste, peppermint tea is a delightful and invigorating beverage.
When it comes to herbal teas, there are many different herbs and blends to choose from. The traditional herbs mentioned in this article are just a few examples of the many herbs that can be used to improve your health. However, it's important to remember that herbal teas are not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be used as such. Before adding herbal teas to your daily routine, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical conditions.
Herbal teas are also a great way to stay hydrated, as they are a natural source of fluids. Drinking herbal teas regularly can help to keep the body hydrated, which can have a positive impact on overall health. Some herbal teas, such as chamomile and ginger, have also been shown to have a positive effect on the immune system, which can help to prevent infections and illnesses.
One of the benefits of herbal blends is that they can provide multiple benefits in one cup. A blend like our Sleep tea which contains hops flower and valerian root, all known for their sleep-promoting properties can be a great way to wind down after a long day and ensure a peaceful night's sleep. Calm tea is a favourite among our repeat customers offering a lavender and peppermint aroma that helps you relax and unwind. Our Detoxify tea which contains dandelion root can help to alleviate symptoms of digestive issues, such as bloating and cramping. Similarly, blends like our Vitality tea which contains maca root can help to boost your energy and help balance your hormonal system in both men and women.
However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of herbal teas can vary from person to person, so it's important to pay attention to your body and adjust the usage accordingly. It's also important to note that when buying herbal teas, it is important to buy from a reputable source, as some products on the market may not be pure, or may contain added ingredients that could be harmful. Our blends at King and Queen use Certified Organic Ingredients ensuring you are getting the highest quality ingredients in your cup of tea.
In conclusion, herbal teas can be a great addition to your daily routine, providing a variety of health benefits. They are a natural, safe and effective way to improve overall health and well-being. By consulting with a healthcare professional, and choosing high-quality products, you can ensure that you are getting the most out of your herbal teas.
You can see our view our entire herbal tea range online and get free Australia-wide delivery when you spend over $50.
Let's say it's a typical weekday, and you wake up feeling exhausted with a throbbing headache. Your eyes are sunken, and your deep circles are showing. You find yourself getting so cranky every morning, and coffee is your best friend. Without coffee, you can't stay awake.
Does this sound like you?
If yes, then you could be suffering from sleep deprivation or a chronic sleep disorder.
Anxiety, stress, and overthinking are three of the most leading causes of insomnia. A study in 2019 reveals that more than 50 per cent of Australian men and women suffer from at least one chronic sleep symptom. This number may have significantly increased over this year with the pandemic going on.
Sleep experts advise us to develop good sleep hygiene to combat insomnia. But what is sleep hygiene? In essence, it refers to the healthy sleep habits of a person. These are strategies that can be implemented to improve a person's sleep significantly. Although many other medications can treat insomnia, these drugs can only improve your sleep for a shorter period. Healthy sleeping habits are proven to be far more effective and long-lasting.
Both men and women are creatures of habit. We may not realize how these habits govern our everyday lives.
Here are some nifty tricks to improve your sleep habits and escape yet another long, sleepless night:
Avoid using your bed for daytime activities like work, school requirements, and other unrelated stuff to relaxation and sleep. Don't go to bed unless you're feeling drowsy. This way, you're helping your mind and body to associate your bed with sleep alone.
Try to go to bed simultaneously every night instead of spending countless hours of tossing and turning on your side. Having a regular sleeping schedule can help reset your body clock and can improve your sleep-wake cycle.
Don't stay in bed, awake for more than 10-20 minutes. Get out of bed if you're finding it difficult to sleep and get back once the drowsiness starts to kick in.
Melatonin is a natural substance in the body produced in high amounts by our brain during nighttime. It's known as the 'sleep hormone' because it is responsible for your circadian rhythm. This so-called circadian rhythm, or body-clock in layman's term, regulates our sleep patterns.
Although melatonin can be taken as a supplement, there are ways on how to induce them naturally. Turning off the lights and reducing your screen time at night can certainly improve your sleep. Exposure to blue light during bedtime can stunt melatonin hormones, thus making you less sleepy and more awake. The logic behind this is that whenever your brain senses light, it's tricked into thinking that it's still daytime.
Make sure to keep your bedroom cool and dark for a calming bedtime experience.
Other natural ways to boost your melatonin production:
These thoughts sitting at the back of your head, usually arise whenever you're laying in bed with nothing to do. It sucks to have them circling inside your head again and again. This is where journaling comes in handy. It can help you achieve mindfulness. A sleep diary or a gratitude journal has been proven to reduce anxiety and stress.
Write your worries down on paper instead of letting them consume you. Take some "me time" to reflect on your thoughts after jotting them down. As you keep track of your current and previous entries, this allows you to become more self-aware of your thoughts and ideas. Journaling is a simple yet effective way to stay grounded or present at the moment.
You don't have to be a writer to start journaling. You can start by allocating 15 minutes of your bedtime to this. A gratitude journal is said to be more rewarding, but you can also write down what is bothering you if you wish.
Other benefits of journaling include:
A powerful bedtime ritual should get you in the mood to sleep, but it's even more powerful when you do them with consistency. As mentioned earlier, humans are creatures of habit.
You can meditate. Do breathing exercises. Pray. Take a hot shower. Apply an overnight facemask. Read a good book, or listen to a podcast! Do whatever you want to help you destress after a long day.
Remember that your bedtime is a time that's dedicated to relaxation and peace. You owe this to yourself. The day has finally come to an end, and tomorrow is another day. Now is the time for you to take your beauty rest. Relax and nourish your soul. You deserve this!
Going to bed at the same time every day also does the trick. Consistency is key in building new habits. Your internal clock will eventually pick up on your sleeping pattern, and you'll be falling asleep faster than before.
Let your body unwind after a long, gruelling day. Take sips of tea for insomnia while reading a book, journaling, or listening to music.
Our relaxing herbal tea blends will help you slip away into oblivion. The best tea for sleep is infused with healthy and organic ingredients, just like our collection. You won't be able to resist the intense aroma of rose petals and lavender wafting through the air and into your nostrils.
These are some of the benefits of our herbal tea for sleep:
Take a warm cup of tea by your bedside and enjoy the soothing sensation with each sip. Drink our organic tea concoctions a few hours before going to bed to fall asleep in no time.
We have tea blends specifically for sleep and also for calmness. They contain rose petals, chamomile, lavender, hops, ashwagandha, passionflower, and peppermint, to name a few.
It's very tempting to take a nap during the afternoon, and that's fine! But do you know how long it should be? Studies show that an ideal nap should be around 20 minutes and should not exceed 30 minutes. Power naps work best for most adults, and they've been proven to boost brain functions.
If you take extended nap hours, your brain will become more active at night. This is a bad habit that ruins the sleep cycle so try to avoid it as much as you can.
Napping for more extended periods increases your chances of falling into a deep sleep and waking up feeling groggy instead of refreshed.
So you might ask, "how does regular exercise affect my sleep?"
Morning or afternoon exercise, in particular, can result in increased body temperature. Our body temperature drops post-exercise, which promotes drowsiness and a calming sensation to the body.
Exercise can also improve your mood by releasing endorphins in the body. These endorphins are the so-called "feel-good" hormones, and they're said to reduce anxiety and stress.
Although regular exercise is excellent, try to avoid strenuous activities at least 4 hours before bedtime to prevent getting your sleep interrupted. Exercise increases the heart rate and stimulates the nerves. This can make you feel restless as opposed to feeling relaxed in the evening.
Having a good night's sleep is an essential component of a person's general health. Getting adequate sleep has many benefits. It can boost your immune system, improve your mood, and increase brain function, among many other things.
The habits that we form over time, including our sleeping habits, can affect our day-to-day activities at large. An individual with healthy sleep hygiene or habits can sleep better than a person with poor sleep hygiene.
To recap briefly, we've mentioned some tips on how to improve your sleep hygiene:
And lastly, don't be discouraged if these tips don't work for you right away. All good things take time, so be patient and be consistent. It's a good investment to develop these healthy habits early on.
Health is wealth, and a person can't be healthy without a good night's sleep. Apply these simple tricks during your bedtime so you can finally snooze your worries away and say goodbye to sleepless nights!
Drinking herbal tea ever morning as you ponder life’s blessings, surprises, and challenges, you start to wonder what you will do for the day. Thanks to the tea that you drink every morning, you always feel calm and happy – enough to face life’s interesting battles for you.
Among all tea variants, there are a lot of famous types such as peppermint, chamomile, hibiscus, and ginger tea. But one type of tea is not as famous as the rest. This is called passionflower tea.
Passionflower tea is a special type of tea that comes from passionflower, a long, strong, climbing vine with parts that go above the ground. The portion of the vine above the ground is used to make medicine, teas, and other forms of home remedies.
Various scholarly studies and research articles suggest that passionflower tea is a great central nervous system relaxant. It does this by increasing the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inside the human brain.
But… what is GABA? It is an amino acid that occurs naturally in the human brain. It has the power to reduce the activity of the CNS (central nervous system). Because of its capacity to cause relaxation, drinking passionflower tea actually promotes enhanced mood, pain relief, a better sleeping schedule and disposition, and an overall relaxed feeling.
One of its amazing features is that it is capable of modulating the different chemical activities inside the human brain. It can facilitate the modulation of Na+ (sodium), K+ (potassium), and ATPase activities.
So, are you now interested in passionflower tea?
Well, to prepare this tea, you need to steep a dried passionflower, or you may opt to use pre-packed tea bags in a boiling pot of water. It will take about 5-7 minutes for its flavour to diffuse, and it will taste earthy and grassy – but this can be sweetened by honey, sugar, or corn syrup.
Passionflower is a vine that has been nourished and used by native Americans for hundreds of years. Because of this, passionflower is a regularly-staying herb in Western Herbalism.
This enchanting vine originally came from the Southeast area of the United States, South America, and Central America. Approximately 700 different species of the Passifloraceae family and an average of 60 of this species are mainly utilized for food. One of its species is the passionfruit – an exotic and juicy fruit that brings a dash of bright magenta colour.
But the most used species is the Passiflora incarnate, a sun-loving vine that commonly places itself on fields, forests, and roads. This is usually found in places with hot climates and dry soils, similar to those in their native origin.
During the pre-Columbian era, passionflower was used for food and medical purposes. The Native American tribes, Cherokee people, and European settlers used passionflower as a tea by drying them and letting them steep in boiling water.
Missionaries and settlers from Spain and Europe often promoted passionflower as a medicinal herb, and the rise of passionflower tea became rampant in the 18th century. By that time, botanists started to praise the said vine as well, and this resulted in a more widespread hype for passionflower tea.
Drinking passionflower tea has a lot of benefits. Here are some of them:
Many people experience having anxiety attacks randomly, or traumatic events or memories may also induce these. To help in relieving these nasty anxiety attacks, you may opt to drink some passionflower tea.
Passionflower is a known central nervous system relaxant, so it is quite obvious why it is an effective way to get rid of anxiety. It will calm the mind by relaxing it, along with infusing the brain with properties that will make it feel more at ease.
Drinking passionflower tea is also quite popular before having any form of surgical procedures. It reduces the patient’s nervousness when taken at least 30 to 90 minutes before the surgery begins. Studies show that it has similar effects with melatonin and midazolam, two anti-anxiety drugs that are given before surgery to make the patient drowsy and easier to operate on.
It has been shown that the intake of passionflower tea or extract right before bedtime is an effective technique to sleep faster, therefore avoiding the possibility of insomnia. Not only will it make you fall asleep quickly, but it will also help you in getting a longer sleep time.
Because of this, a person with insomnia will have a better quality of sleep.
Research and case studies have been rampant in providing us with actual proof that passionflower tea is one way to reduce the struggles of people who are experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms.
Together with a drug named clonidine, passionflower tea is taken by the patient for two weeks. Based on scholarly data, the symptoms of patients gradually lessened as compared to when clonidine drug is taken alone.
Passionflower tea is an effective drink to reduce the severity of signs and symptoms brought by Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder in children ages 6 to 13 years old. The tea is usually administered for at least 8 weeks, and it works even better when administered together with a drug known as methylphenidate given in low doses.
This tea is composed of passionflower, which offers a great anti-inflammatory, soothing action. With this, various inflammatory illnesses can be managed better just by drinking some passionflower tea from time to time.
Illnesses such as arthritis and gout can be relieved with the use of this tea.
Seizures occur because the neurons in the brain make, give, and get electrical impulses that give the brain’s nerve cells the chance to communicate with each other. But sometimes, there are disruptions in their communication pathways, and it ultimately leads to a seizure.
Because of passionflower tea’s calming effect on the mind, thanks to its ability to increase the production of GABA, the central nervous system starts to calm down, therefore stopping the seizure right on time.
There aren’t many drinks which can claim to reduce the risk of cancer, help with fat loss, and boost your brain function, but there’s one in particular that boasts all three of these things. Naturally containing plenty of antioxidants and nutrients, green tea is one of the healthiest beverages that you could consume. Here are three main health benefits of green tea:
1 - It is packed with antioxidants that will improve your health
Green tea is high in natural compounds which are good for your body. Due to the polyphenols found in the leaves, green tea can be consumed to help reduce inflammation and the risk of cancer.
The leaves also contain Catechins called EGCG. These are antioxidants that can, amongst other things, protect your cells from damage. It is these protective properties that make green tea a fantastic healthy beverage. These protective properties reduce the probability of radical cell mutations, meaning that there is a reduced risk of cancerous cells forming.
Both polyphenols and Catechins also have beneficial ageing properties. Research shows that EGCG has many medicinal uses. It’s clear that green tea is a terrific herbal medicine! You don’t have to be sick to reap the benefits of green tea either - the minerals it contains are also essential to maintaining a healthy body.
2 - It Will Make You Smarter
Like coffee, green tea contains caffeine to help you stay alert. Caffeine affects your brain by inhibiting the neurotransmitter Adenosine. With Adenosine inhibited, the rate of activity of your neurons increases. There will also be a higher concentration of the reward neurotransmitter dopamine, and another called norepinephrine. These reactions caused by caffeine will all lead to better memory, reaction time, and vigilance, helping you learn more effectively. The caffeine in green tea can also inhibit the neurotransmitter GABA. This, in turn, reduces anxiety and stress. This is important for healthy brain function and helps you be more productive.
3 - It Can Help You Lose Weight and Physically Perform Better
Green tea increases your body’s metabolism, helping you burn fat faster. In fact, the ingredients contained in green tea can also be found in fat burning supplements. The difference here is that green tea is a natural product with no harmful side effects. Scientists have researched the fat-burning properties of green tea and reported it can increase your energy expenditure by 4%.
Hence, drinking green tea daily can help you lose weight in a healthy manner, and you didn’t even have to spend a minute on a treadmill for it! Furthermore, the caffeine in green tea can increase your physical performance as it makes the fat in your body readily available to be converted into energy. This increase in physical performance has been claimed to be up to 12% better. If you’re a sports enthusiast, consider incorporating green tea into your diet to help boost your performance; since it’s a natural product, there’s no harm in trying it.
Now that you’re aware of the magical powers of green tea, go ahead and give it a try! You will soon see the benefits of this low-calorie drink. Just remember when buying your green tea, you must choose high-quality brands to ensure it contains the highest concentration of antioxidants and minerals. Where better to purchase high-quality green tea than at King and Queen? Get in touch today to see how we can help!
What makes loose leaf tea a more excellent option than tea bags?
Tea connoisseurs frequently talk about the deluxe flavour of loose tea leaves. Indeed, you might be wondering if there is a massive difference if you compare it with tea bags.
For one thing, such organic leaves require some space to expand for the water to bring out the distinct and aromatic flavour notes that make tea so relaxing to drink. This is precisely why even chock-full and larger pieces of tea were put in tea bags; they still could not match the one-of-a-kind flavours of loose leaf.
This is why even when fuller and larger pieces of tea are used in tea bags, they still could not be compared to the flavours of loose leaf.
How did you get into tea drinking?
We all have different stories to tell in terms of how we started getting into tea drinking. But, one thing is sure, we are not only addicted to the unique and calming flavour and taste of organic tea, but we are also motivated to drink more of it due to its many health benefits.
More and more people these days prefer tea leaves because they are healthier options than conveniently-packed and mass-produced tea bags. Sometimes, we are not even sure of what these commercialized teabags contain.
Sometimes, we ask if the ingredients inside those tea bags are beneficial to our wellness. We are not trying to say that the tea bags we can buy in various stores aren’t safe; our main goal here is to encourage tea lovers to consider the benefits of making their own tea using organic and premium quality leaves.
Sure thing, creating our own tea recipes is healthier, and we can pick the ingredients we like. Best of all, it’s a low cost, and at the same time, a very stress-relieving activity to do. And, we need not wonder whether it is safe to drink or not!
When we make our own tea drink, we can use as little or as much tea, depending on our preference. In short, we can do experiments according to our unique sense of taste.
Loose tea leaves allow us to control the strength of our tea. So, this is beneficial because it considers our unique preference for how we decide our cup of tea to be. Isn’t it nice to have the freedom to create our own taste?
Experts asserted that there is a remarkable distinction in quality between tea bags purchased at supermarkets and loose leaf tea.
To understand this, even more, we can compare this to a bag of cookies. The cookies at the top of the bag which are whole and not torn into pieces are like loose tea leaves, while the crumbs found at the bottom of the bag are like the tea bags we commonly buy at local grocery stores.
Experts reveal that when farmers sort through the leaves, the dust instantly flies in the air, and then this falls onto the ground and cleared away- this is exactly what goes into the pre-packed tea bags.
Simply put, the tea used in tea bags is generally filled with dust or fannings- so this is inferior quality. Hence, picking premium quality leaves can significantly help formulate a better cup of tea and overall experience.
Interestingly, something is fascinating and mysterious when partaking in the ritual of creating or blending your own tea- this is particularly true when this is carried out in an old-fashioned approach.
You cannot deny how magical it is to watch the tea leaves move in the water as the tea infuses to create a rich flavour and enchanting aroma.
To some, this might sound an insignificant detail; even so, the details certainly add up to a bigger picture.
If the reason why you decide to purchase tea bags at local grocery stores is that you are too busy and think you do not have the time to blend your own tea recipe, then you better think twice.
Using tea leaves to make your own tea drink is not time-consuming and expensive at all. So long as you have your preferred ingredients, you can accomplish the task in no time without spending lavishly.
Before we explore the appropriate method of brewing our own tea recipe, let us first determine the necessary tools or materials needed when making our favourite tea blends:
A tea mug or kettle is where you put the tea infuser in to brew your tea drink properly. The good news is that there are available tumblers made of glass and tea mugs these days that already equipped with infusers.
The tea infuser is responsible for keeping any leaves from hovering liberally in your mug while you drink. Plus, it allows you to stop infusing tea after your stated time. This is a valuable investment because it helps keep the loose tea leaves from tasting pungent or tart.
In addition to this, a paper filter can be used if you prefer something that you can dispose of right away. A basket infuser is also a great choice. You can put this in your kettle or tea mug. With proper care, basket infusers last a long time.
This is a must-have when boiling water. Conventional stovetop versions are quite practical to use. On the other hand, electric kettles are ideal for boiling water in a quicker and more efficient approach.
Now that we already have the ideas for the necessary tea making tools, let us explore the proper way of brewing our preferred tea blends:
Keep in mind that when trying to re-infuse your tea, it is essential to extend the process longer than the infusing time (add one more minute); this is for the flavour to be unleashed.
What about brewing iced tea? What is the proper way of doing this?
You can use a premium quality iced tea pitcher when brewing iced tea. Alternatively, you can adhere to the methods of making hot tea; however, this time, you’ll need to add more amount of loose leaf tea in your blend.
It is essential to consider that increasing the quantity of tea per mug allows for ice without minimizing the flavour.
Here are a few cues on how to brew your tea correctly:
When it comes to the water temperature, white and green teas, do best in hot water, while black teas in boiling water.
What matters the most is how oxidized the leaves are. Among the types of teas, black teas are more oxidized and could handle hot heat.
Is it vital what you infuse the tea in? Your cup of tea would work fine, but take in mind that the steeping would be affected by the room temperature and type of teacup you use.
So, if you are really into tea drinking, it would not cost you much if you invest in an unglazed earthenware teapot. After all, you deserve to reward yourself. This is an ideal investment since it does a great job of brewing the tea faster and consistently.
Lastly, allow the tea to stay in the water for approximately one to five minutes- or depending on your personal preference. When preparing black teas, two up to three minutes is the highly recommended time for steeping.
Bear in mind that excessive steeping could produce a very bitter brew. But, then again, this is up to you. Some of us prefer a pungent taste. We have different preferences, anyway!
There you have it. Hopefully, this post has provided you with some valuable information about preparing your own loose leaf tea. You have learned why they are healthier and better options than tea bags out there.
Don’t forget to consider the brewing guides shared in this post, so you can fully enjoy your relaxing tea! Happy brewing!
Most people know lavender as a solution to relieve stress. However, it has many other benefits outside of dealing with stress. It is related to improved moods, sleep patterns, reducing skin issues, preventing infections, reducing dandruff, and easing stomach bloating. You may have some fond memories of the scent from your grandma’s house, but that could be all you have in your mind. There are many benefits you may never have appreciated.
There are up to forty plants within in the mint family, which are considered lavender. The famous and easily accessible one is called Lavandula Angustifolia. This version is found around the world (Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean, and Europe). Thanks to its wide range of features, it is widely used for several important reasons. Some of the main reasons are food, fragrance, herbal solutions, and other powerful effects on humans. It remains one of the most unique natural scents around the globe.
The plant grows and spreads perhaps too quickly to be managed. For this reason, it is considered a nuisance weed in some parts of the world. It seems to be cherished only where it is rare. In North America, for example, it is used in salad dressings and several teas in the eastern countries. It can also be a spice in some cultural dishes but also used with honey and sauces. It is widely used, and thankfully, it is widely available around the world.
You may love the scent and flavour, but there is more to it than meets the eye. There are bonus benefits, which you may never have known before.
Perhaps the most popular use of the lavender scent is warding off anxiety and stress from users. Many studies have agreed that lavender can soothe stress in many different ways. It contains naturally occurring compounds, which is found in both leaves and flowers. Grinding these surfaces between your fingers before rubbing on the temples. Relieving anxious thoughts using this solution has been a historic act carried on for a long time in history. Many people have historically balanced their mood using this technique. Lately, many people have chosen to brew lavender tea and achieve the same effect. They contain antioxidant properties to ensure a balanced endocrine system with reduced levels of stress hormones in the body.
Treatment of insomnia and restlessness is on-demand around the world. Many people suffer from apnea and sleeplessness or disrupted patterns. The effect of such issues on the overall lifestyle is immensely adverse. Brewing lavender flowers in hot water have proven helpful in boosting sleep in people who struggle to sleep. For many centuries, people have done this to induce rest and relaxation. There is a close link to the nervous system, which is seen by how it clears the mind of negative thoughts. For this reason, the scent is vital in meditation sessions as well as aromatherapy as essential oils.
Patients are always looking for new ways of treating inflammations. Lavender is a solution to both mind and body. Using them in bath water for a long soak, the anti-inflammatory components help reduce inflammations. Thanks to the antioxidant characteristics too, it is one of the most trusted solutions for detoxification.
Taking good care of your skin can be improved with a bottle of lavender flowers. Dry and irritated skin requires some spray of lavender to restore suppleness. You can enjoy the quick relief it provides. With continuous use, you can treat chronic problems such as psoriasis, acne, or eczema with this spray.
Lavender has proven a great solution to hair loss over the years. It not only nourishes the scalp to restore healthy hair but also sustains the quality of the strands. Lavender-shampoo may be costly to be worth the price because it is devoid of any harsh chemicals. Instead, you can still steep lavender flowers like tea and apply the mixture to your scalp. Hair follicles respond quickly to this treatment.
Lavender can be used for its powerful antiseptic properties. Treating infections is one of the least considered yet powerful features of lavender.
With its relaxing qualities, lavender can help reduce blood pressure and free a user from its risks. Powerful organic antioxidants ensure blood vessels are free from tension.
Many of the health benefits of lavender come from ingesting it. However, eating lavender is not very practical and can be an unpleasant experience. Brewing a tea containing lavender is by far the easiest and most effective way of getting the most from this powerful natural plant. We here at King and Queen add lavender to our Calm Tea as we believe its soothing effect on the entire body was a perfect fit for this blend. Check it out and let us know what you think.
Tea is an aromatic beverage that’s consumed by many people for thousands of years. Legend has it, the Chinese Emperor Shen Nong, who accidentally discovered tea in 2,737 B.C. He was boiling a pot of water in his garden when a leaf of a wild tea tree drifted into the pot.
It’s hard to prove the authenticity of this legend, but we know one thing for certain. Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world. It’s consumed for its health benefits, as a calming concoction to soothe frayed nerves, or simply, for its wonderful flavour.
Tea leaves produce their distinctive tastes when it’s brewed in hot water. Hot water permeates into tea leaves best, releasing the beautiful flavour and aroma we’ve come to love. These almost magical leaves are packed with nutrients that many studies have shown are beneficial for us.
However, what do you do with the used tea leaves after you’ve brewed your perfect cup of tea? Throwing them away would be the wrong answer. Used tea leaves can continue to be useful and beneficial to us even after all its flavour is gone.
Here are some uses for tea leaves that you can do right at home. The next time you’ve brewed your tea, don’t be so quick to throw the leaves away. Give one of these uses a try and you’ll love teas even more!
Face or body scrub
After you’ve brewed your tea, strain them in a fine mesh colander to remove as much liquid as you can. Then spread these leaves on a kitchen paper towel to absorb remaining excess moisture. Air dry for at least 24 hours. These dry used tea leaves are called chagra.
Once the leaves are completely dry, you can add them to your face or body wash. The texture of the leaves works as an excellent gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and bacteria. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have wonderful effects on the skin.
Air fresheners
Loose leaf tea is a favourite among many tea drinkers. The loose leaves produce a more robust flavour compared to a teabag. Other than giving you a nice cup of tea, loose tea leaves make great air fresheners for your home or car.
Take about two spoonfuls of dry used tea leaves and mix them with a few drops of your favourite essential oils. Mix well to infuse the oils into the leaves and place these leaves in a small muslin pouch. You can place the pouch in your closet, clothes drawers, or your car.
Deodorizers
Used tea leaves make an effective deodorizing agent. To remove the smell of meat or fish on your kitchen chopping board, sprinkle a good amount of damp used tea leaves on the board. Give your chopping board a good scrub using these leaves and your board will smell fresh and clean.
To remove the odour from carpets or rugs, cover them with damp used tea leaves and leave for at least 20 minutes. Then all you have to do is vacuum them right off, leaving you with a carpet that smells fresh and clean.
Chagra also work wonders as pet or fridge deodorizers. Instead of baking soda, you can sprinkle used tea leaves in your pet’s litter box to freshen it up. For your fridge, you can place dry used teabags in it to absorb any unpleasant smell.
Not only that, many people use tea leaves to get rid of body odour. Take the used tea leaves into the shower and use them to scrub your underarms. Other than removing the bacteria that cause the odour, the properties in the leaves can also help to lighten dark underarms.
Bath sachet
Soaking yourself in a tub of tea may not be your idea of a relaxing evening. But you’d be surprised how a tea bath is highly beneficial to your skin and muscles, not to mention soothing. Tea bath is a common ayurvedic therapy to soothe nerves and calm the mind.
Take a handful of used tea leaves and place them in a muslin sachet. Steep this sachet in your tub for 15-20 minutes. For aromatherapy, you can add a few drops of lavender or rose essential oil. The antioxidant properties of the tea leaves will give you a healthy and glowing skin.
Burns and stings remedy
Tea leaves are full of tannins, an anti-inflammatory property that helps to soothe minor burns and stings. Gently press damp used tea leaves into shape and use it as a salve on the burn or sting spot. You may repeat the process until the pain goes away.
You can also use damp used tea leaves to reduce puffy eyes. For this, cool damp tea leaves work best. If you’re using a tea bag, don’t throw the bags away. Chill them in the fridge for several hours and place them on tired eyes for 10 – 15 minutes. The tannins will give you an instant rejuvenation once you’ve removed the teabags from your eyes.
Fertilizers
Used tea leaves have been used as plant fertilizers for centuries. They are natural, eco-friendly, and they don’t smell as bad as manure. The next time you have used tea leaves, sprinkle them in your potted plant or garden.
They add wonderful nutrient-rich properties to your soil, encouraging your home plants to grow better. You can also plant the used teabags in your potted plant or near the plants in your garden. Every time you water your plants, the water will help the leaves to release its nutrients.
As you can see, there are many marvellous uses for tea leaves. It’s little wonder how these amazing leaves was a high-value commodity in ancient times. Even though in modern times it’s considered more of a social drink, there’s no denying its rich history and wonderful benefits.
The next time you make yourself a nice cup of tea, just remember there’s so much more your tea leaves can do. Make a drink, use it as a scrub for healthier skin, use it as home remedies for minor accidents, or even to help your plant grow. There’s nothing these leaves can’t do!
Hibiscus tea is famous for being a herbal type of tea made by merely infusing parts of the hibiscus plant in hot water. This tea comes with a tart flavour that many claimed to be identical to that of cranberries. As other herbal teas available nowadays, you can enjoy it hot or cold.
Indeed, there are countless hibiscus species. They vary in climate and the location they grow in. However, makers of this tea typically use Hibiscus sabdariffa to make herbal drinks.
Studies have revealed an array of health perks associated with drinking hibiscus tea, showing that it has the potency to reduce high blood pressure, combat bacteria, and significantly shed extra pounds.
Did you know that drinking this hibiscus tea can remarkably bring positive changes to our health?
Let us unveil the five health perks we are probably missing:
Hibiscus tea is famous for its effectiveness in boosting our energy.
The moment you start to have this tea as part of your healthy lifestyle, you will witness its effectiveness in rehydrating the body, which plays a vital role in revitalizing the body. We can be stress-free, and it helps keep the strain away that drains the needed energy in our body.
Drinking this tea every day can efficiently regulate our mood.
Hibiscus is good for regulating the generation of hormones. Most women suffer from many hormonal changes that could make them irritable during the menstrual period. So, you can drink this herbal tea to balance these hormones.
Drinking this tea relaxes the immediate and impulsive emotional breakdowns that most women go through during red days. Hibiscus is an effective remedy for premenstrual syndrome.
Hibiscus tea helps keep our immune system healthy and more resistant to various sorts of ailments.
Drinking this pink tea can help us finally say goodbye to sniffles. Since it is loaded with a robust antioxidant vitamin C, it plays a crucial role in keeping our immune system at its best.
Likewise, hibiscus is rich in iron that keeps the immune system balanced. This tea is also ideal for helping the body sustain red blood cells. And, since vitamin C aids in accelerating iron absorption, drinking this tea can offer more health rewards.
This flavorful herbal tea is excellent as an instant cold reliever.
Are you prone to catching colds? Well, drinking this tea can be the solution to your condition. This tea is effective for relieving nasty viruses instantly. This herbal tea could bring immediate relief from cold and cough.
Since it is rich in vitamin C, it considerably helps resist viruses that cause cold. Hence, this is an excellent remedy for sore throat, cough, mild headache, and colds.
Hibiscus tea naturally helps fend off cravings.
You can drink this flavoursome tea after dinner when you feel like eating something sweet. This herbal tea would certainly help you stave off that craving because it alters the taste in your mouth. If you feel like the herbal tea is too tart, you can add a teaspoon of honey.
For centuries, herbal teas, also sometimes referred to as tisanes or infusions, have been widely used around the whole world. Thanks to the wide range of benefits that herbal teas provide, herbal teas are always drunk by people who need immediate help.
One specific type of tea, called peppermint tea, has always been a popular tea of choice. Because it has some peppermint extract, it immediately calms a person down. It also has significant soothing effects on colds, coughs, and other ailments that might be overwhelming for an individual.
As time passed by, people started to use peppermint tea as one way of treating their ailments. It is also taken by people because it is said to be an overall health tonic, providing various advantages for the mind and body of an individual.
Peppermint tea's main component is peppermint, which is a mixture of mentha and piperita – therefore, it can be considered as a hybrid herb. It is a fragrant aromatic herb that belongs to the family of mint. It is like having aromatherapy at the same time that you are sipping on your hot tea.
Just like other teas, peppermint tea is brewed using one of three methods: crushed fresh mind, dried peppermint leaves, or the most common, which is brewing tea bags. The water has to be extremely hot to brew it but be careful because it should not be boiling.
You can brew your peppermint tea from 5-7 minutes to get its flavour, but you may alter it depending on how you like your tea. Because peppermint has such a distinct sweet eucalyptus taste, adding sugar or honey would be unnecessary.
Peppermint tea is brewed from peppermint leaf, which is a combination of two dissimilar plants, water mint, and spearmint. The first record of peppermint tea usage can be seen from Ancient Egyptians when they found some dried peppermint tea leaves in various pyramids, way back in 1,000 BC.
Since then, a lot of different civilizations have started using fresh mint, mainly due to its healing properties. And now, the use of peppermint leaves became rampant, and it has taken the form of tea for easier usage.
Indigestion is most often characterized by pain or discomfort in a person’s dyspepsia or upper abdomen. A person with indigestion may also feel sharp, burning pain right behind the breastbone, and this is often referred to as heartburn.
Ever since the rise of Ancient Egyptians, peppermint teas became widely popular as a remedy for indigestion. As a matter of fact, the first record of dried peppermint leaves was found in some pyramids in Egypt.
Other than Ancient Egyptians, ancient Greeks and Romans also utilized dried peppermint leaves and used them as stomach soothers. They drank peppermint tea to relieve themselves from nausea and vomiting because the tea has soothing effects on the stomach. This is all thanks to peppermint tea's anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Peppermint tea has a lot of health benefits, and here are some of its most notable uses!
A study suggests that peppermint oil has the ability to alleviate pain and discomfort by relaxing an individual's muscles. It is also quite known that one of the menthol's properties is that it has a cooling effect that eases muscle tension and migraine. Other than applying peppermint oil, drinking peppermint tea and smelling its menthol aroma aids in getting rid of a headache.
Peppermint tea also has the ability to reduce and limit muscle spasms within the gastrointestinal tract (G.I. tract). Because of this, it relieves various symptoms such as gas, indigestion, and bloating. Another benefit of peppermint tea is that it prevents the contraction of smooth muscles. Hence, it actually relaxes the digestive system, which is an effective way to ease discomfort in the GIT.
It's no secret that menthol has been used to promote fresh breath. It is a common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwashes, thanks to its cooling effect. Peppermint tea is an effective way to give the mouth a fresh and clean feeling, and it also contains menthol that effectively wards halitosis, which causes bad breath.
Because peppermint tea has an aromatic fragrance, it is capable of masking the bad smell while its anti-bacterial properties work hard to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath. By drinking one cup of peppermint tea in the morning or after consuming food throughout the day, your breath will remain fresh and free of any nasty odours.
Peppermint tea, just like most herbal teas, contains properties that help the body in getting rid of colds and flu. It helps in building up the body’s immune system, acting as a support while the main guns fight off the virus.
Another great effect of peppermint tea in the human body is that it helps in speeding up the healing process of sore throats. The tea relaxes the muscles in the throat so that it becomes less irritated and swollen.
Because of peppermint tea's menthol component, it is able to relax the muscles along the nose, which helps in opening up the airways, therefore relieving any signs of congestion and accumulation of mucus within the nasal cavity.
Do you find it hard to sleep at night? Worry no more because peppermint tea can help you with your sleeping problem. By drinking this tea, you will find it easier to fall into the most peaceful and restful sleep that you will ever experience. You will wake up feeling recharged and refreshed. It also promotes more vivid dreams, which can be an additional factor for better sleep.
This tea is an effective way of decreasing your stress level. It is an amazing way to cool down and relax. Peppermint tea has also been known to be a natural remedy to keep a person focused. It has been studied and proven to have a significant effect on brain function because it increases alertness.
Tea is a warm beverage that soothes us every morning or night. It calms us down and prepares us for what life has prepared for us. One of the best herbal teas that are readily available in the market is chamomile tea.
The beauty of chamomile tea is that you can play around with its potency. If you feel like having a relaxing drink, don't make it too potent. But if you need something that will wake you up, brew it a little longer.
Well, chamomile tea is a famous tea variant that has been around for quite some time now. It is a strong tea that has no caffeine, but it has a chemical component called flavonoids. This type of antioxidant chemical is a nutrient that is commonly found in various types of medicinal plants. Chamomile tea also contains other important chemicals such as sesquiterpenes, as well as coumarins.
Flavonoids are used to help in the regulation of our bodies' cellular activities. These chemicals also aid in fighting free radicals that encourages oxidative stress on our bodies. To make it more simple and easy to understand, flavonoids basically promote a more efficient bodily function. These also guard our bodies against daily stressors and toxins.
Sesquiterpenes are chemical compounds that are quite famous for their ability to release calming properties. Other than that, they are also known for supporting the body's immune system. They contribute to protecting us against harmful pathogens and microbes that might try to penetrate our immune system.
They also resist the entry of antioxidants, and they assist in cellular repair as well.
Coumarin, on the other hand, is an effective anticoagulant substance. It prevents the formation of blood clots that might lead to further complications such as cardiovascular problems, stroke, it may affect body organs, and it might even cause death.
Other than being antithrombotic, coumarins are also anti-inflammatory, and they also affect the body's blood vessels by dilating them. This is called vasodilation.
Chamomile tea's taste profile can be described as subtle, smooth, and pleasing to the palette. Because of this, people really enjoy drinking it. This herbal tea has been used to aid a person's health issues.
Other than for medicinal purposes, chamomile tea is also utilized in the creation of green and black tea. It is added for flavouring them.
From the plant family called Asteraceae, chamomile tea was discovered. It is closely related to marigold and sunflowers; they all belong to the same plant family. To make chamomile tea, chamomile flower is crushed (dried or fresh, it is based on the drinker's preference) combined with hot water.
Chamomile tea consumption started from ancient societies where they utilized dried chamomile flowers as well as fresh ones. Ancient Egypt pioneered in the use of chamomile tea. They used it to treat fever as well as for cosmetics.
The Ancient Romans also used chamomile tea as a flavouring agent for their beverages. They also used chamomile tea for its healing properties to treat and manage a wide variety of different illnesses.
In Medieval times, chamomile tea was used for its scent – it was used as a perfume for public meetings and events. They did this by placing fresh leaves around the area. But other than that, chamomile tea also made it into the liquor production department. It was used to improve the taste of beers, similar to how it is also used in the 21st century.
Teas really are wonderful because they have a lot of health benefits and daily uses for us. Here are some of the benefits that we may get from drinking chamomile tea:
Because of the amazing chemical substances that are found in chamomile tea, the body's immune system is boosted. Flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and coumarins work together to protect the body from invading pathogens.
Flu, common cold, and sore throat can easily be prevented just by drinking chamomile tea regularly.
Chamomile tea is the perfect beverage for getting rid of stress. Together with the sweet aroma of this tea, its calming and soothing blend will promote relaxation for anyone who drinks it. Vegetarian Times published an article that states how chamomile is a powerful substance that can ease stress and tension commonly associated with headaches and migraines.
Chamomile increases the body's production of happy hormones – melatonin and serotonin. These hormones are produced by the body to prevent or stop the feeling of distress, anxiety, or stress.
Thanks to chamomile tea's ability to get rid of anxiety and stress, they help in relaxing the human mind. This tea variant provides the drinker in getting sleepy faster, which means that your good night's rest will be deep and relaxing.
Even if you have a sleeping disorder such as insomnia and sleep apnea, chamomile tea will still provide you with some relief. In 2015, Journal of Advanced Nursing published one study that chamomile tea has significant effects on a person's sleep quality.
Chamomile tea is also quite known for its ability to aid in digestive tract issues in the likes of irritable bowel syndrome. Well, this tea was originally used to help children with their digestive problems, but it is now used by adults as well. Other uses of chamomile tea are to get rid of stomach gas and the prevention of stomach ulcer.
It has anti-inflammatory components and anti-spasmodic properties, so this tea is really effective in alleviating a person's diarrhea problem.
Because of Coumarin, chamomile tea has the ability to prevent the coagulation of blood which can lead to blockages in the blood vessels near the heart. This tea also helps in the regulation of relatively lower blood pressure for those patients who suffer from hypertension.
Flavonoids also participate in the better heart health of individuals who regularly drink chamomile tea.