Tea drinking can almost be a ritual for some––it can be a way to wind down after a long stressful day, or a way to connect with others. But tea drinking carries many benefits beyond relaxation and friendship! But have you stopped and thought about the health benefits of tea? Choosing your teas wisely depending on what you’re looking for. Let’s learn about the benefits of tea!

Green tea

Green tea is perhaps the most touted type of tea for its health benefits. Green tea contains L-theanine, which studies have shown to improve focus. What’s more is that it contains caffeine as well, which boosts the focus benefits of L-theanine. The caffeine content of green tea depends on the strength of the cup and type of green tea, but generally runs about 35-50 mg per 8 oz. This makes it ideal for those looking for a small caffeine boost but don’t want as much as would be found in coffee or even black tea. It also has been shown in studies to increase thermogenesis (calorie burning in the body) and help curb appetite. 

Black tea

Green tea often gets all the glory, but black tea has many health benefits as well,some which are in common with green tea! Black tea contains antioxidants such as catechins, theaflavins, and thearubigins. These can help reduce inflammation in the body. Black tea may also support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure. And of course, there’s the caffeine boost again! A typical cup of black tea can contain between 50-90 mg of caffeine per cup depending on the strength and other factors. Like green tea, L-theanine combined with caffeine to help with focus.

Herbal teas

There are so many different kinds of herbal teas that we couldn’t possibly begin to cover them all in one blog! But a few favorites:

Ashwagandha tea: Ashwagandha is an herbal superfood with adaptogenic properties. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-stress properties, positive effect on mood and cognition as well as beneficial effects on promotion of sleep. Seeped as a tea is a great way to enjoy these benefits. Keep in mind it has a strong flavor and takes some getting used to, though!

Chamomile tea: A great before-bed tea, chamomile, a smooth, mild-flavored tea, has actually been shown to help induce sleepiness. The active chemical compound believed to have this effect is called apigenin. Try drinking a cup about 45 minutes before bed.

Hibiscus tea: This refreshing, tart tea can be enjoyed hot or cold. It has a beautiful, bright, clear red color that sets it apart from other teas. It has been shown in studies to help reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels. 

Some other good teas to look into: nettle tea, dandelion root tea, peppermint tea, lavender tea, rooibos tea, and all the many tea blends! 

We hope we’ve inspired you to become a tea drinker or to branch out and try the different options and flavors available! Remember, so many foods are healing foods, and almost any tea you can think of carries with it its own unique benefit.