How herbs can convert normal tea into an immunity booster

Last year, over 28 thousand kilograms of green tea were produced in India thereby highlighting the shift in the industry as well as in the consumer’s mindset. Apart from green tea, the unique taste of herb-blended tea products such as Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Peppermint, Ginger, Turmeric, and many more have also begun to gain importance for their higher health quotient and refreshing, energizing, uplifting nature, in the eyes of the customers. (Image: istock)

Procured from processing plant leaves, tea is one of the oldest drinks to exist. It has always been consumed for its aroma, freshness, and taste. However, the changing times demand changes in products. People are now becoming more health-conscious, and are looking for healthier products to consume. This is also true for tea which is visible from the growing inclination of people toward green tea and other herbal products which are gaining appreciation and popularity in the market. (Image: istock)

Indians are usually seen starting their day with a cup of tea which is considered beneficial and effective as it helps consumers to feel more energised, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Through research, it has been found that it contains many antiviral, antimicrobial as well as immune-boosting properties thus making one’s body healthier. It would be interesting to know that tea has also been used as a component in herbal medicine for years and therefore is considered a good catalyst in fighting diseases of various kinds. (Image: istock)

The medicinal benefits of tea have been known for ages. Since ancient times till today, it is blended with herbs like Tulsi and Ginger and is considered a trustworthy way to fight cold and cough. According to the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, tea has components like L-theanine and catechins and this combination is quite beneficial for immunity building. This can also reduce the incidence of cold and flu. Further, the phytonutrients eugenol and cineole which are present in Tulsi work as anti-inflammatory agents against the virus. Going by the popular saying ‘one cup of tea is enough to cure it’, people after spending a stressful day at work find tea relaxing as it helps them to feel stress-free because of its nutrient value along with hydrating the body which often causes headaches.The combination of herbs like Tulsi and Mulethi which is often unknown to people helps you reduce stress, improves your metabolism, and is considered to be a powerful adaptogen. (Image: istock)

With hectic life schedules, one needs something that calms and soothes their nerves and the Chamomile tea is quite famous for that. With its soothing and calming nature, the tea helps an individual feel relaxed and in some cases, even helps in reducing anxiety. It is often also known as the best bedtime tea. Chamomile tea also helps with digestion issues and body cramps. Apart from these a good cup of tea helps one deal with various other problems like aiding digestion, increasing energy, reducing inflammation, and much more.

Keeping in mind the above, it is now crucial for the industry to ensure and focus on closely looking at the products that are being introduced in the market. With the recent shift of consumers’ minds toward a healthier and organic approach the industry should focus on products with higher health benefits and those that are organic in nature. (Image: istock)

Also Read: Are you drinking artificially coloured tea?

Tea has been a part of Indian culture for as long as one can remember and has always worked for the tea lovers. With so many options available, one might feel confused about which one should pick. Well, let’s keep in mind that even though different teas might have different benefits, the underlying benefit for all is the same— to ensure quick recovery and immunity building. (Image: istock)

Contributed by: Amrita Pandey, Nutritionist, Organic India

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