Tea-riffic!

November 15, 2011

It's that most wonderful time of the year!

Well, maybe it is if you don't get sick with a cold, flu, or have seasonal allergies going haywire! For those having the icky, sickness blues, I've found one magic cure-all in my kitchen that seems to alleviate or outright cure a lot of my health woes.

Tea! Yep, that's right. Good ole tea is the fix-all I'm talking about. Each type of tea has its own health-helping properties that you might keep in mind for overall health, but they also have some special uses for the woes of winter.

Here are some of the types of tea and their health uses:

White Teas: fights viral infections with high levels of antioxidants. There have been studies to show that white teas kill 80 percent of viruses in ten minutes. And while they're at it, white teas help your skin and complexion look its best.

Black Teas: reduces heart problems and stroke, improves blood circulation, and also helps fight cavities! They also help maintain cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range.

Green Teas: lowers your risk of cancer and can aid in weight-loss by upping your metabolic rate and helping you burn calories. Green teas also help your body maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Oolong Teas: aids in weight loss.

Herbal Teas: rich in Vitamin C

Rooibos teas: helps promote digestion, support your immune system, and promote healthy skin, teeth and bones.

Mate Tea: gives the same energy as coffee without the jitters. They also may curb your appetite and contain 21 vitamins and minerals.

Got a headache or migraine? Try a tea with lemon, ginger, honey, lavender or mint. Stomach problems after a big Thanksgiving meal? Peppermint tea will soothe that. Sore throat? Green teas, chamomile and ginger will fix that up. Sinus troubles? Any hot drink is great, but herbal teas will help ease that pressure and green teas will stop that constantly running nose. Need to focus on that upcoming deadline? Black teas give your brain that excess boost while calming your nerves. And if you're just overcome with holiday stress, use some passionflower, chamomile or spice-flavored teas to relax before bed.

As an avid tea drinker myself, I've found that most of my health problems can be solved by one of the teas in my cabinet. So check out some of our books on teas, and stock up so you too can face all the woes of winter!

Jennie V.
South Independence Branch