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Ways to Spike the Health Benefits of Your Cup of Tea

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You probably already know that sipping a warm cup of tea is good for you. Tea has a variety of health benefits and may help with cancer and other life-threatening conditions.  It is full of antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, meaning that it helps to kill microorganisms or inhibit their growth.  Did you know there are some simple ingredients that you can add to your tea to boost its health benefits?  Even if you are not a regular tea drinker, try brewing one of these leaves in hot water for a healthy, delicious tisane, or herbal tea.

  • Blueberries have been praised for their health http://l.rgbimg.com/cache1sNLTm/users/s/so/somadjinn/600/nCyMs3U.jpgbenefits and antioxidant properties, but did you know that you can use the leaves too?  Blueberry leaves have long been used in folk medicines to reduce and control blood sugar levels.  Some studies claim a reduction of up to 25% of blood sugar levels and recommend a cup 2-3 times a day with meals.
  • Lemon balm (Melissa) is a popular mint due to its fresh lemon scent and flavor.  This mint is said to help with digestive problems, such as upset stomach, bloating, and flatulence.  People have long used lemon balm to reduce anxiety and alleviate sleep problems.  There are even some studies that indicate regular use of lemon balm may help Alzheimer’s patients and others experiencing aging-related memory issues.
  • Strawberry leaves are said to be used to relieve joint pain and to improve digestion.  The caffeic acid found in these leaves are a diuretic and help remove water from the joints, relieving pain and stiffness.  Use of a tisane made from these leaves is said to reduce stomach bloating, ease stomach cramps, and even help with diarrhea.http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0275/2899/products/blackberry_leaves.jpg?v=1392460665 
  • Blackberry leaves contain tannins and vitamin C to help heal wounds and rashes.  This healing drink will strengthen your immune system while promoting tissue repair.  Drink a blackberry leaf tisane when you have a sore throat, which soothes and heals while reducing inflammation.
  • Raspberry leaves are full of magnesium, potassium, and iron.  This particular leaf is said to be great for women’s reproductive health, helping to ease symptoms of PMS.  In folk medicine, raspberry leaves have been used to soothe canker and cold sores, to help heal and soothe gingivitis, and to even ease morning sickness in pregnant women.

To make a tisane, add 2 teaspoons of torn leaves to a cup of almost boiling water.  Allow the brew to steep 30 minutes.  Remove the leaves and enjoy.  You can use these leaves individually or combined together into your own special brew.  Add even just a few leaves to your next cup of tea for a new flavor and boost to your health.

 

 

 

Jaime Johnson’s passion for all-natural products started as a challenge at home to produce high-quality health and beauty products from common household ingredients.  This research lead to the creation of her book, Natural Beauty.

A staff report from the online editor of Hers Magazine.

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