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Tuesday, January 4, 2011

MANY USES OF HERBAL TEA


Most herbal teas are not tea but are actually infusions made with herbs, flowers, roots, spices or other plant parts. The correct name for this drink is "tisane". Tisanes are served hot or cold. Most tisanes do not contain caffeine. Mint and chamomile are two of the most popular teas (tisanes).

Herbal teas have been used in cooking rice, noodles and vegetables for centuries. In Europe, herbal teas are often used to enhance the flavor of soups, stews and casseroles. Chamomile tea and Echinacea tea are frequently used as herbal remedies. Actually there are a variety of herbal teas used for medicinal purposes although not all of these teas have been researched to confirm the benefit. While most herbs are safe, before you use an herbal tea for a medical condition, check with your doctor. There are herbs that can increase blood pressure, increase glucose levels, cause hormonal effects and some that may interfere with prescribed medications. Consult with your doctor before you add any of these herbal teas to your diet.

Chamomile tea and rosemary tea are often used for the complexion. Some herbal teas are used as a rinse to condition hair.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF HERBAL TEA 

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Although herbal infusions are brewed in boiling water and look like tea, they are not true tea. Tisanes do not come from the plant, Camellia sinensis, the source of all teas. Tisanes, however, are planned and measured mixtures of botanicals.

If tisanes are consumed each day, the general benefits are:

1) A calm relaxed state of mind
2) Cleaning properties (detoxification) for the body
3) Increased energy
4) Help with stomach problems

The list of available herbal teas is extensive. If you want to learn more about tisanes, purchase a good book and do your research.

If you have a specific health problem and/or you are taking prescribed medication, talk to your doctor before using a tisane.

Another benefit of drinking tisanes is the minimal amount, if any, of caffeine. Another bonus - many of the tisanes are a real taste treat!

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