Tea has multiple benefits, including helping to fight off colds, keeping warm, and playing a significant role in an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. Chronic inflammation can lead to various diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Paying attention to one’s diet is a crucial way to fight inflammation and avoid foods that increase inflammation such as sugary sodas, red meat, and fried foods. Instead, consuming more fatty fish, fresh berries, leafy greens, and olive oil with anti-inflammatory properties is essential. Drinking two cups of tea per day contains polyphenols, which protect the body from inflammation. Additionally, when stressed, the body releases hormones that instigate inflammation, and drinking tea can help in reducing stress levels. However, incorporating tea into one’s diet while still consuming a diet full of sugary foods and little exercise is not a solution to fighting inflammation.
Try out this Teas that aids in fighting Inflammation
Rooibos Tea
Also known as red tea, rooibos has anti-inflammatory properties and is also caffeine-free making it a great choice for those sensitive to caffeine. It also supports heart health by positively affecting blood pressure and cholesterol. Rooibos is a herbal tea made from the leaves of Aspalathus linearis, which is usually found in South Africa and contains Aspalathin, which has potent antioxidant properties.
Ginger Tea
Ginger has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It’s a natural way to soothe an upset stomach, relieve nausea, and treat a cough. Ginger has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and may be helpful in preventing gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological diseases. You can slice a ginger root and boil it in water with lemon, or simply brew a bag of ginger tea.
Green Tea
Green tea perhaps is the type of tea most synonymous with wellness. It has excellent potential anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s high in a polyphenol compound called catechins, including one particularly potent catechin called EGCG. This is effective at reducing inflammation. Green tea is also linked to lowering the risk of cancer and heart disease but however should be consumed in moderation.
White Tea
With less caffeine than its counterpart, white tea packs a powerful punch despite its light color and mild taste. Being the least processed, white tea retains a vast amount of its antioxidants. These antioxidants can neutralize harmful free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Turmeric Tea
Turmeric is best known as the flavorful spice that gives curry dishes their distinctive yellow-orange color which is why teas made from turmeric are also known as “golden milk”. Most importantly, it contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Drinking turmeric tea can help reduce inflammation and may alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Black Tea
Black tea, which is made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, is the most popular tea in the world. It also contains theaflavins, which can improve blood vessel function, thereby promoting heart health. Polyphenols in black tea may help lower the risk of developing chronic diseases. Keep in mind that black tea naturally contains caffeine, so best to drink it in the morning.
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea comes from the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant and has a lighter taste; it’s fermented for a longer time than green tea, but not as long as black tea. Oolong tea can help to reduce inflammation because it is rich in polyphenols which can help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling associated with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile is synonymous with all things sleepy and cozy. And indeed, pouring a cup at night can help you ease into your bedtime routine as well as address inflammation. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm inflammation, reduce digestive distress, and promote relaxation.
