What to know about teas for medicinal use?
Teas are a traditional herbal preparation made by steeping plant materials such as leaves, flowers, roots, or berries in hot water.
This method extracts the active compounds from the herbs, creating a soothing and easily consumable form of medicine. In herbalism, teas are used to support various health conditions, including digestive issues, stress relief, and immune support. They are often customized based on the individual's needs and the properties of the herbs used.
Teas remain a popular and accessible way to incorporate herbal remedies into daily wellness practices.
What is a tea?
Teas are herbal preparations made by steeping plant materials such as leaves, flowers, roots, or fruits in hot water.
Unlike tinctures, which use alcohol as a solvent, or infusions, which often involve longer steeping times, teas are simple to prepare and widely consumed. They are typically more accessible and less expensive than other forms of herbal medicine. Teas offer a gentle way to ingest herbal compounds, making them ideal for daily use.
Compared to other preparations, teas provide a mild therapeutic effect and are often preferred for their ease of use and pleasant flavor.
How tea works?
Teas work by using heat to extract bioactive compounds from plant materials through a process called infusion, where water acts as a solvent to dissolve soluble components like polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids.
The solubility of these compounds in water depends on temperature and steeping time, with higher heat increasing the rate of extraction. This method is simple and cost-effective, often using just hot water to release the medicinal properties of herbs. Common active constituents include caffeine, tannins, and antioxidants, which contribute to the therapeutic effects of different tea varieties.
Once consumed, these compounds are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and delivered to the bloodstream, where they exert their pharmacological effects based on their molecular structure and bioavailability.
What are the best herbal teas?
Some of the best herbal teas for medicinal purposes are Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ginkgo biloba, Lavandula angustifolia, and Echinacea purpurea.
Zingiber officinale, or ginger, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice root, supports respiratory health and soothes sore throats.
Ginkgo biloba enhances cognitive function and improves blood circulation. Lavandula angustifolia, or lavender, promotes relaxation and alleviates stress.
Echinacea purpurea is well-known for boosting the immune system and reducing the duration of colds.
Check this link for the full list of 100 best teas for medicinal use.