Tea is prized for its medicinal properties and ancient origins. Multiple countries spanning thousands of years from England and Portugal to China and India have used tea to heal ailments, induce positive effects and sip as favorable beverages in the morning or before bedtime.
Tea comes from hot water infused with natural herbs and plants. The tea leaves are crushed or ground and then steeped in the water.
Some varieties of tea are more difficult to acquire than others. However, growing your own tea will make it easy to have the herb accessible whenever it is needed. There are four plants, Lavender, Chamomile, Peppermint and Lemon Balm that can easily grown at home and can offer multiple benefits.
Lavender
Lavender tea is a natural sedative. It is proven to help ease insomnia and anxiety. It provides relief from joint and muscle issues including inflamed tissues, skin irritation and arthritis. Drink a cup of Lavender tea before bedtime to help cure bodily aches and pains while soothing you into a blissful nights sleep.
Chamomile
Similar to lavender tea, chamomile tea also works as a natural sedative. It is specifically used during cold season and any related symptoms due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Use as a sleep aid or anti-anxiety medicine. Drink a cup of chamomile tea to soothe your throat, alleviate menstrual cramps and strengthen your immune system. Additionally, it helps with gastrointestinal issues including irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers and intestinal cramping.
Peppermint
Peppermint tea is a wonder medicine for any stomach and intestinal issues. It prevents nausea, improves digestion and reduces inflammation caused from bloating. Additionally, it is a quick fix for bad breath which can often be related to gastrointestinal issues and bacteria in the mouth. Menthol naturally decreases body temperature which reduces fevers. The naturally lowering of your body temperature also works as a stress reliever and sedative.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm comes from the Mint family. It has similar benefits as Peppermint but with a milder and citrusy taste. It helps to reduce blood pressure levels improving heart health by alleviating anxiety and hypertension. It supports healthy digestion and improves flatulence, acid reflux and bloating.
Whether drinking tea in the morning, afternoon or at night, these teas can be used regularly. The beauty of growing your own tea is having the option to create a blend, always having your tea available and the comfort in knowing where your tea comes from. It is similar to having an apothecary at home! Feel free to expand your herbal apothecary as you become more comfortable cultivating your own plants.
