The Health Benefits of Drinking Herbal Tea Every Morning

The Benefits of Drinking Herbal Tea in the Morning

Waking up in the morning and brewing a hot cup of herbal tea has become a cherished ritual for many people. The comforting taste and aroma of an herbal infusion can help jumpstart your day. But the benefits of drinking herbal tea in the morning go far beyond simply feeling refreshed.

Herbal Teas Provide Antioxidants

Many herbal teas contain high levels of antioxidants from the dried fruits, herbs, spices, flowers or leaves used to make them. Antioxidants help protect your cells from free radical damage. Starting your day with an antioxidant-rich cup of herbal tea can set the tone for a day of healthy choices.

They Boost Your Immune System

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties found in ingredients like elderberry, echinacea, ginger and raspberry leaf give your immune system an extra punch. Drinking herbal tea in the morning may help your body mount stronger defenses against germs and viruses.

Herbal Teas Can Aid Digestion

Warm herbal tea can help stimulate digestion first thing in the morning when your digestive system is already activated. Many herbal teas also contain herbs known to relieve stomach issues. Peppermint and ginger tea, for example, can ease nausea, stomach aches and bloating.

The Best Morning Herbal Teas

If you're looking for a delicious way to boost your health every morning, try incorporating one of these nutrient-packed herbal teas into your routine.

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a spicy and invigorating choice to help open your eyes in the morning. Studies suggest that ginger can also tame morning sickness, fight inflammation, settle an upset stomach, boost immunity and support heart health.

Echinacea Tea

This herbal tea is made from the vibrant purple Echinacea flower. With potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, echinacea may help prevent and shorten colds when drank regularly. It also contains antioxidants to strengthen your immune system against outside threats.

Chamomile Tea

Known for its mild and calming taste, chamomile is a popular nighttime tea. But it also makes an excellent morning drink when you need to wake yourself up gently. Antioxidants in chamomile tea can boost your immune function to keep you healthy.

Green Tea

Made from steamed tea leaves, green tea has a light, grassy flavor. It delivers a moderate amount of caffeine to perk you up in the morning. And research indicates that drinking green tea regularly significantly lowers your risk for heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's and other chronic conditions.

Peppermint Tea

With its strong, refreshing minty flavor, peppermint tea is nicely energizing. It can also soothe any lingering stomach upset first thing in the morning. Additionally, preliminary studies show that antioxidants in peppermint tea may offer protection against certain cancers.

Brewing the Perfect Cup of Morning Herbal Tea

Making a steaming hot cup of herbal tea is a calming morning ritual. Follow these simple steps for an antioxidant-rich infusion bursting with flavor:

Choose High Quality Loose Leaf Tea

Loose leaf tea contains more antioxidants and better flavor compared to tea bags. Choose organic tea whenever possible to avoid pesticides and chemicals. Check the ingredients list for herbs, spices, flowers and fruits that will offer the health benefits you desire.

Use Filtered Water

For the best tasting morning tea, filtered water is key. Spring or filtered tap water will allow the nuances of your herbal tea to shine through. If using unfiltered tap water, let it sit out overnight so the chlorine can dissipate.

Follow Steeping Instructions

Pay attention to the suggested water temperature and steeping time for your tea. Steeping your herbal tea for too long can make it bitter and astringent. Using water that is too hot can destroy delicate flavors and nutrients.

Sweeten Sparingly

Resist the urge to dump spoonfuls of sugar or honey into your morning herbal tea. The natural sweetness of many herbal ingredients will come through if you allow them. Try stevia or a sprinkle of cinnamon to lightly sweeten your tea instead.

Morning Herbal Tea Recipes

Once you understand the basics of brewing loose leaf herbal tea, try your hand at blending your own signature morning cup. Combine antioxidant-rich herbs and spices to create unique infusions crafted for your tastes and health needs.

Orange Ginger Morning Immune Tea

Ingredients: Fresh ginger root, orange peel, lemon peel, turmeric root, whole black peppercorns, cinnamon chips

To support your immune system first thing in the morning, this vitamin C-rich concoction is just the ticket. The ginger and black peppercorns give it some spicy heat to help wake you up.

Early Riser Digestive Tea

Ingredients: Fennel seeds, dried peppermint leaves, lavender buds, cardamom pods, rosemary

If you need help jumpstarting your digestion in the morning, try this blend. Fennel seed, peppermint, lavender and rosemary aid digestion. While the aroma of the cardamom gives this tea depth and balance.

Morning Detox Herbal Tea

Ingredients: Dandelion root, schisandra berries, chicory root, burdock root, holy basil

Give your liver some morning love with this gentle detox tea. Dandelion, chicory and burdock root help purge built up toxins so you start your day feeling refreshed. Holy basil and schisandra berries provide antioxidants for whole body support.

The Bottom Line

Waking up to a warm, fragrant cup of herbal tea in the morning can become your new healthy ritual. With so many options for delicious antioxidant and nutrient-dense herbal infusions to savor, you're sure to find one that fits your morning lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.