Our favorite teas to add to your wellness routine in 2020!
Notes from the LHTC Team:
It's the beginning of the year and one of our goals is wellness and self care. Taking moments for ourselves throughout the week to read a book or watch a show we love, light a candle, do some yoga or sip a cup of tea are some ways to recharge our bodies and minds. Check out our Herbal Fab 5 for the perfect cuppa's to help us recharge in 2020!
For a Great Night's Sleep
Try this: Chamomile
Why does it work? Chamomile contains an antioxidant called Apigenin, which works to bind with receptors in the brain that decrease anxiety and initiate sleep.
How to prepare it: For a classic cup of tea, try brewing 2 teaspoons chamomile tea (or 1 tea bag) in 8 oz hot water for about 5 minutes. Add honey and lemon to taste (my favorite ratio is 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to 2 teaspoons honey). Or try this creamy Chamomile Latte...
For Beautiful Skin
Try this: Hibiscus Tea
Why does it work? Hibiscus flowers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants - including vitamin A, B1, B2, C, Zinc, and Iron. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids and alpha hydroxy acids that all contribute to beautiful, glow-y skin.
How to prepare it: There are so many ways! My favorite is as a Hibiscus Iced Tea for the summer - simply steep 1 tablespoon dried hibiscus flowers in 8 oz hot water for about 5 minutes. Remove flowers, chill the brewed tea and sweeten with a little stevia and lime juice. OR you could cut it 50/50 with your favorite fruit juice - such as watermelon, apple, pomegranate, pineapple, lemon-aid or a combination of all of the above!
To Get More Energy
Try this: Licorice Root Tea
Why does it work? Licorice root has adaptogens that help modulate the production of hormones which ultimately work to stimulate adrenal glands that can boost energy and increase blood flow.
How to prepare it: Licorice root is often combined with other teas to mellow out its flavor. Some of our favorite combinations are Licorice Spice from Stasher and Egyptian Licorice by Yogi. Prepare this drink by steeping it with 8 oz of hot water and finishing it off with a little cream/milk/soy milk and honey.
To Reduce Stress & Anxiety
Try this: Lemon Balm Tea
Why does it work? Lemon balm contains GABA, a neurotransmitter that appears to soothe stress and is often used to treat anxiety, stress, and insomnia.
How to prepare it: Steep 2 teaspoons Lemon Balm Tea (or 1 tea bag) in 8 oz hot water for about 5 minutes. Sweet with a little honey and lemon (my favorite ratio is 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to 2 teaspoons honey) and enjoy warm. You can also prepare your own blend using fresh lemon balm leaves steeped with hot water and sweetened with stevia.
To Fight Off a Cold
Try this: Ginger Tea
Why does it work? Ginger is believed to counteract nausea that can accompany colds, the flu and even pregnancy. In combination with a little lemon juice (naturally anti-bacterial), you've got an infection fighting/symptom-easing drink.
How to prepare it: Brew 2 teaspoons ginger tea (or 1 tea bag) OR slices of fresh ginger in 8 oz hot water for about 5 minutes. Sweeten with a little honey and lemon (my favorite ratio is 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice to 2 teaspoons honey) and enjoy warm.
