Keep Calm With A Sip of Tea

It’s natural to feel down when things are not going your way. Whether being in lockdown has you stressed over finances or depressed about being alone, try having a cup of tea to relax and calm you. Studies have found that some teas have the power to improve and boost your mood.

Standing over a kettle and watching it boil and then brewing your tea, or steeping a tea bag in your cup and taking in the aroma, can be relaxing. Besides, tea is a healthier option than coffee and energy-booster drinks. The following five teas promise to lift your mood and put a spring in your step.

Turmeric Tea

Turmeric is underrated as a spice - it has a lot of essential nutrients. Turmeric tea can increase the production of dopamine and serotonin levels, the hormones responsible for happy moods.

Studies have found that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, might help reduce symptoms of depression. Having a cup in the morning can improve your mood and fight off depression.

Lemongrass Tea

Lemongrass, a herb that is native to Sri Lanka and South India, is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties: the tea can help fight against free radicals.

The lesser-known fact is that it may offer anxiety-reducing properties. A lot of people find sipping hot tea to be relaxing, but the aroma of lemongrass tea is said to have the power to reduce anxiety and stress levels. Research on its benefits in this regard still needs to be finalized.

Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea, also known as Bush Tea, is a traditional drink made from the leaves of a South African shrub. Rooibos is caffeine-free and has a mild aroma and sweet and fruity taste.

A study by Stellenbosch University shows that Rooibos tea affects cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone. Rooibos tea can help you cope with your daily stresses and make you feel a lot better.

Rooibos tea also boosts antioxidant levels in the body and is a natural detoxifier. Aspalathin, found only in rooibos tea, is a powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties.

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is easy to make; slice up some ginger, and brew it in hot water. Ginger has many vitamins and nutrients, but the feeling of warmth and comfort you get from drinking a cuppa is the main benefit.

Ginger tea is known to relax the mind and body. It is, therefore, not uncommon to be offered this drink when visiting a spa.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile comes from the daisy-like plants of the family Asteraceae. The dried flowers are infused into hot water to make chamomile tea. Chamomile tea is a caffeine-free alternative to black or green tea.

A study in 2012 showed that chamomile might help to manage depression and anxiety. Stress and anxiety may also cause sleeplessness. Chamomile has properties that may aid sleep, as well.