From Moringa to Guava: These 5 leaf teas can help control blood pressure, diabetes and inflammation

Before The British introduced Milk Tea to Indians, from the get-go Kadhas were the ideal refreshment choice. The anecdote of the herbal brews is rooted within Asian culture. Even now, Kadhas or herbal teas have lived up, not limited to the boundaries of India, but also, around the globe.
Herbal teas are light beverages with exceptional nutritional value, made from two core ingredients- leaves and water. The right amount of consumption can provide exceptional health benefits. A report from Harvard acknowledges how herbal teas can boost the immune system, fight off inflammation and even promote cardiovascular health. Here we list 5 leaf teas, their benefits and the right way to consume them to keep in track of blood pressure, diabetes and inflammation.

Traditionally, Moringa oleifera or the ‘miracle tree’ was used to cure wounds, ulcers and liver diseases. Moringa leaves have high potassium content. This property can help relax blood vessels and ultimately improves heart health.

The best way to consume Moringa Tea is to toss a handful of fresh leaves in boiling water. Cook it for five minutes and serve in a cup. People on medication and pregnant ladies should consult their doctor before consuming moringa tea as it can enhance drug effects.

The Ayurveda ‘Queen of herbs’, Tulsi, is readily available in Indian households. Where Tulsi is worshipped as goddess Laxmi, Indian households aren’t unaware of its medicinal benefits. Now, scientific research too is giving a thumbs up! Tulsi’s benefits range from improving blood circulation to helping cure respiratory infections including cough and cold. Tulsi leaf tea can be consumed both in the morning and in the evening.
Reports suggest Tulsi has been able to counter metabolic stress through normalization of blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels

Next time you find Tej Patta while cooking curry for lunch, don’t forget to keep 2-3 leaves aside for a beverage full of health benefits. Bay leaves are full of caffeic acid. This acid helps strengthen the blood vessels and regulate blood pressure.
Bay leaves are not only used to add aroma to the curry, these leaves contain cinnamaldehyde and eugenol that help balance blood sugar after high carb meals.

This Indian kitchen bestie with aromatic richness has a therapeutic essence as well. These leaves are low in salt with high amounts of potassium. This property maintains the blood sugar levels. The simple method to prepare curry leaf tea is adding 1 tablespoon of dried leaves or 8 to 10 fresh curry leaves in hot water, cook for 5 minutes and strain in a cup, but do avoid sugar.

This underrated gem is best consumed post-meal. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Guava leaves strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and slow down sugar absorption that spikes after meals, hence best for metabolic health.
To prepare guava leaf tea, rinse some fresh leaves and toss them in boiling water. Strain once boiled and you can enjoy it with some drops of honey. Limiting the consumption to one or two cups a day is advised.

Follow the right exercise and diet to keep healthy. Please consult a medical health professional before adopting any advice

Exercise and diet can help in keeping you healthy