It is indeed a delightful experience to have a cup of warm herbal tea in winter and a cool one in summer. The delicious and healthy beverage can be consumed the whole year round.  Most of us are well aware of herbal teas and why they are beneficial for our health. However, we carry limited information on how the antioxidants in the herbal tea work and are responsible for the benefits.

Historical writings reveal that herbal teas date back to several thousand years back and were commonly used in different traditional medicines. They were a common part of Tibetan, Amazonian, Chinese, Indian, Greek, African, European, and South American culture. Over the years, the popularity of herbal teas has grown with time across the globe. The prime reason is because of their medical properties and reasons like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial benefits. The main health benefits are because of the presence of the abundance of antioxidants in herbal teas as well as vitamins, carotenoids, and polyphenolic compounds.

Herbal Tea Benefits

Herbal teas, unlike regular tea, are not made from tea leaves or plants. Instead, these are made from a variety of dried flowers, herbs, fruits, and spices. Today, one will come across a huge range available in the market when it comes to herbal teas. You will find different teas from various countries like China, Africa, and the Americas and available in different flavours and options.

Unlike standard teas, herbal teas do not contain caffeine and carry other nutrients and minerals, including antioxidants.  Based on the herbal blend, one can enjoy different health benefits such as improving the body system and immunity, getting relaxed, and reducing pain.

Research shows that herbal teas carry a higher concentration of antioxidants that carry unique benefits. The antioxidants are known to neutralize the free radicals in the body and control numerous pathological conditions. When different herbal teas were screened, it was found that different blends carry different antioxidant properties. Tropical herbal teas are found to be more diverse and variable in antioxidant properties as compared to temperate herbal teas. Camellia sinensis herbal tea is known to carry a higher value of antioxidant value as compared to other teas. However, there are some exceptions, such as guava, oregano, and lemon myrtle tea.

Herbal Tea Antioxidants Benefits

It's no secret that there is a higher concentration of antioxidants in herbal teas, based on their blend. The antioxidants can boost the health and immune system and fight against infections. The antioxidants help to get rid of any free radicals throughout the body and thus lower oxidative stress and aging.  Many studies confirm the role of antioxidants in reducing the risk of cancer and prevent chronic diseases.  The antioxidants present in herbal teas are the reason behind positive health benefits such as curbing osteoporosis and brain deterioration.

As mentioned before, the concentration of antioxidants in herbal teas depends on their blends and how they are made. For example, Rooibos tea harvested exclusively in South Africa is known to carry 50 percent more antioxidants. Aspalathin, one of the antioxidants, is known to help those with diabetes or heart disease. Ginger root tea with natural antioxidants reduces free radicals and protects brain health as it tends to increase blood flow to the brain. Antioxidants in Lemon Balm Tea can stimulate enzymes and receptors as well as control nerve signals.  It is the high concentration of antioxidants that is responsible for improving brain and nerve cell functions. Hibiscus tea is great for people with diabetes and cholesterol.  It also protects the liver and promotes weight loss and thus is good for people with overweight issues. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds are known to boost HDL levels and lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.