FIVE HERBAL TEAS TO STAY HEALTHY THIS MONSOON
The monsoon is here, and what could be better than watching the rains from a cozy corner, sipping a cup of hot tea? But then, tea doesn’t need to be the same old beverage always. Why not experiment with some herbal teas so you can get some health benefits alongside? And if you thought herbal teas were bitter to taste, think again. If brewed well, they can be as refreshing as regular tea. Here are some herbal teas you can easily prepare for this monsoon. Keep in mind that all these should be consumed black, without adding milk.
Tulsi tea
Tulsi or Indian basil is a ubiquitous herb found in the country and has various therapeutic benefits. Tulsi can strengthen the immune system, control blood pressure, and alleviate stress symptoms. It is also said to aid heart health by bringing down cholesterol levels and can improve bowel movements when consumed daily.
Preparing tulsi tea is easy, and it can be made with fresh leaves, dried leaves, or powder. Add a handful of fresh leaves into boiling water and let it sit for ten minutes. Alternately, add half a teaspoon of tulsi powder to water and bring it to a boil, stirring all the while. You can also try variations by adding ginger, lemon, honey, etc.
Ginger tea
Since time immemorial, ginger tea has been a staple in India for its manifold benefits for digestion and immunity. If you have a headache or migraine, think no more. Sip warm ginger lemon tea, and you will find your headache disappearing gradually.
You can make ginger tea easily by adding fresh or dried ginger to hot water. Let it sit for a while, add a few drops of honey or lemon just before consumption.
Lemongrass tea
Are you constantly stressed? Lemongrass tea is the right choice for you. The herb native to India is said to have a calming effect on the nerves and can be taken before going to bed. Lemongrass is also believed to stimulate menstruation in women and improve skin and hair texture due to its antioxidants.
You can use both the stalk and the leaves for making the tea by adding them to boiling water. Let it sit and steep for 10 minutes. If the aroma of lemongrass is too strong for you, add a few regular tea leaves and sugar or honey.
Cardamom tea
The tastiest of all, cardamom tea is nothing short of a treat. Drinking cardamom tea after a heavy meal can aid digestion and prevent bloating. Cardamom’s antibacterial properties prevent bad breath and also ease a sore throat.
You can prepare cardamom tea by adding a few pods to boiling water and simmering. Add a pinch of brown sugar or honey.
Hibiscus tea
Hibiscus is a plant abundant in the tropics, yet its health benefits have never been utilized properly. Hibiscus is a storehouse of antioxidants and is believed to regulate blood sugar levels and control hypertension. Drinking its tea can slow down aging and improve skin complexion, says studies. Hibiscus tea can be prepared by boiling hibiscus flowers in water. Once the water turns red, switch off the flame and cover the vessel. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Add tulsi or mint leaves for extra flavors.
