How To Get More Benefits Out Of Herbal Teas?

Customers often ask us how to choose the right herb tea for their specific health needs. Per your request, we have done the research for you. you can use it as a herbal tea reference.

Many herbal teas have been used as homeopathic treatments for centuries. Recipes, treatments and folklore have been passed down through generation of families. Listed below are some suggested uses for the organic herbal teas we offer.

The Traditional Uses of Herbal Teas

The information on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use this information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.

Alfalfa Tea

Alfalfa is an excellent source of vitamins A and D. Also rich in Vitamin K, alfalfa leaf has been used in medicine to encourage blood clotting. It is a good laxative and natural diuretic. It is used in Europe and Russia to improve appetite and to treat Celiac disease. Alfalfa reportedly lowers blood cholesterol, relieves arthritis and can help with symptoms of hay fever and asthma.

Anise Tea

Traditionally used for coughs, bronchitis and asthma. Recent studies show that chemicals in anise (creosol and alpha-pinene) loosen bronchial secretions and act an expectorant. Anise is also a good source of iron and facilitates iron absorption. Well known as a digestive aid to relieve intestinal gas and discomfort. Anise contains the chemicals (dianethole and photoanethole) similar to the female sex hormone estrogen which accounts for its use to relieve menopausal discomfort as well as a breast milk promoter.

Astragalus Tea

In China, astragalus has a long history of use in traditional medicine strengthen the Wei Ch’i (defensive energy) which refers to the immune system. In addition to stimulating the immune system it is regarded as a potent tonic for increasing energy levels. It is useful as a diuretic and as a treatment for respiratory infections.

The American Cancer Society publications report it restored immune functions in cancer patients, bolstered white blood cell counts and supported adrenal cortical function. Astragalus does not treat or cure cancer; it strengthens the body’s immune system helping patients recover from both the illness and the treatments.

Bergamot Tea

Bergamot tea is soothing and relaxing and makes a good night-time drink. Scientific evidence shows that bergamot may inhibit the herpes simplex and the related chicken pox viruses. It is also effective when used in steam inhalation to treat colds, flu and sinus congestion. A handful of bergamot leaves in a net bag makes a soothing bath for aching and tired limbs.

Bilberries Tea

Modern research shows that the fruit contains compounds known as anthocyanosides which contribute to visual acuity. Italian researchers show that a mixture of anthocyanosides from bilberry plus vitamin E halted the progression of lens clouding in 97% of people with early -stage cataracts. Regular use of the fruit results in quicker adjustment to darkness and glare and improved visual acuity both at night and in bright light during the day. It may be useful in the prevention and treatment of glaucoma since it strengthens connective issue and prevents free radical damage.

Bilberries are incorporated into European Pharmaceuticals that are used to improve circulation. In Russia, berries and leaves are used to treat colitis, stomach problems and sugar diabetes. The dried fruit has an antibacterial action and can decrease intestinal inflammation and help protect the digestive tract lining. There is evidence that they also help prevent blood clots and make it a potentially valuable treatment for varicose veins, hemorrhoids and capillary fragility.

Bitter Melon Tea

Bitter Melon is reported to help in the treatment of adult-onset diabetes by lowering blood sugar. Rich in iron, bitter melon has twice the beta carotene of broccoli, twice the calcium of spinach, contains vitamins C, B1-2-3, phosphorus and dietary fiber. Studies are underway to confirm that bitter melon can increase the number of beta cells (cells that secrete insulin) in the pancreas, thereby improving your body’s capability to produce insulin (insulin promotes the uptake of sugar from your blood by cells and tissues). It is reported to help relieve the symptoms of psoriasis.

Black Cohosh Tea

Black cohosh root improves blood circulation and lowers blood pressure and body temperature by dilating blood vessels and increasing peripheral circulation. It is used to reduce the inflammation and muscular pain of rheumatism and arthritis. A central nervous system depressant, black cohosh directly inhibits vasomotor centers that are involved with inner ear balance and hearing. One of the uses for black cohosh recognized by doctors is for relief of ringing in the ears.

Black cohosh has estrogenic effects, meaning it acts like the female sex hormone estrogen. In China, it is the prime women’s tonic for any uterine condition involving inflammation, pain or low estrogen. It promotes fertility and softens the impact of menopause.

Black Tea (Decaffeinated  Or Not)

Black tea is made from tea leaves more heavily oxidized than other tea varieties. It is during the production process that the membranes of the tea leaves are broken to allow the juices and essential oils to emerge, giving black tea their characteristic aroma and flavor.

In the Orient, black tea is known as red tea which refers to the color of the brewed tea. It is preserves its flavor longer making it a favorite article of trade. Compressed bricks of black tea even served as a form of currency in Mongolia, Tibet and Siberia into the 19th century. Black teas still account for over 90% of all tea sold in the West.

Burdock Root Tea

The Chinese use burdock for eliminating excess nervous energy, clearing out toxins, and cooling the heat of infections because it can kill bacterial and fungal infections. Burdock is a demulcent that forms a soothing film over mucous membranes relieving pain and inflammation. The most popular western use of burdock root is as a primary herb in blood purifier formulas.

It is also used to cleanse the body of uric acid and other residues that accumulate from rheumatism, arthritis and gout. French herbalist have used the fresh root to lower blood sugar levels in diabetics because it contains the easily digestible starch “inulin”. It is also believed, but not proven, that the root regenerates liver cells and stimulates the gallbladder. Burdock tea has a sweet taste, similar to celery root.

C” Blend Tea

“C” Blend Tea is a blend of four herbs, Burdock Root, Sheep Sorrel, Slippery Elm Bark, Turkish Rhubarb Root, that act synergistically to promote detoxification and support general health. Before the era of modern medicine, North American Indians discovered this combination of herbs assisted in the natural healing process.

Calendula Tea

Calendula, commonly known as marigold, is a native of Europe and was named by the Romans because the plant blooms on the first day (“calends”) of every month. Ancient Romans used calendula to treat scorpion bites and soldiers in the American Civil War found it helped stop wounds from bleeding.

Calendula is a popular salve and cream ingredient because it decreases the inflammation of sprains, stings, soothes burns, rashes and skin irritations. Laboratory studies show it kills bacteria and fungus such as ringworm and athlete’s foot. It is gentle enough to be applied as a tea to thrush in children’s mouths and makes a healing mouthwash after dental procedures.

Calendula has been taken internally as a tea or tincture to promote the draining of swollen lymph glands, such as in tonsillitis. The infusion helps inflammatory problems of the digestive system such as gastritis, peptic ulcers and colitis.

Calendula has long been considered a detoxifying herb and helps to treat the toxicity that underlies many fevers and infections and systemic skin disorders such as eczema and acne. The herb is also considered cleaning for the liver (promotes bile production) and gallbladder and can be used to treat problems affecting these organs.

Calendula has a mild estrogenic action and is often used to help reduce menstrual pain and regulate menstrual bleeding. The infusion makes an effective douche for yeast infections.

Catnip Tea

Catnip has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and muscle-relaxing properties. The tea is used for headaches, stomachaches, colic and sleeplessness in children. Drinking two cups of catnip tea a day could significantly reduce the likelihood of developing cataracts. Catnip tea is said to be a beneficial treatment for colic, diarrhea, flatulence, hiccups, whooping cough, the common cold, measles and chicken pox (reduces the eruptions), asthma, yellow fever, scarlet fever, smallpox, and jaundice. The fresh leaves can also be chewed to relieve a headache.

Cat’s Claw Tea

Cat’s Claw has a history of use going back to the time of the Incas, and it has been continuously used by indigenous peoples of South America for two thousand years. Cat’s Claw has been used by the Ashaninka Indians of Central Peru to treat asthma, urinary tract inflammation, arthritis and rheumatism.

It is a multi-purpose herb and is used in the treatment of auto-immune dysfunction, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia because it contains alkaloids that appear to target and strengthen the immune system. It is a powerful antioxidant, anti-viral, and can enhance the function of white blood cells.

Worldwide research is being conducted exploring the use of cat’s claw in the treatment of cancer and AIDS. The triterpenes in the herb boost T cell activity. Peruvian doctors have been using it in the treatment of fourteen kinds of cancer and at least two compounds have been isolated for use in controlling viruses. It is also used for inflammatory and ulcerative conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, colitis, diverticulitis and hemorrhoids.

Cat’s Claw helps cleanse the intestinal tract and heal numerous intestinal disorders such as ulcers, Chrohn’s disease, diverticulitis, leaky bowel syndrome and colitis. It is effective for cardiovascular health and hormone imbalances like prostate swelling and PMS. Other conditions that may benefit from cat’s claw include: arthritis, rheumatism, cancer, allergies, candida, genital herpes, herpes zoster, HIV, bladder infections and toxin poisoning.

Chamomile  Tea (Matricaria recutita)

Chamomile tea has been taken for digestive problems since ancient times. The name chamomile comes from the Greek word for ground apple which accurately describes the flowers aromatic scent of apples.

Gentle and effective, this herb can soothe pain, indigestion, acidity, gas, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome. Chamomile contains strong antispasmodics that can relax tense, aching muscles, eases menstrual cramps, and has a relaxing action on the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract.

Chamomile may help prevent stomach ulcers and speed their healing. Chamomile tea relieves irritability and promotes restful sleep. It is a classic remedy for teething pains and colic in children. It is especially useful in healing inflammation of the tissues of the mouth and of cold sores due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The disinfecting and anti-inflammatory qualities make chamomile effective when used topically to heal wounds and skin disorders such as rashes and eczema.

Chaste Tree Berries Tea (Vitex)

Chaste Tree Berries are effective in relieving a number of women’s issues. The hormone-like substances found in the herb can ease pain and inflammation of the uterus, balance female hormones during menopause and menstruation. It may also help dissolve fibroids and cysts.

Chaste berries can help regulate menstruation when there is excessive bleeding. It can reestablish normal ovulation after taking contraceptive pills. Chaste Tree berries can raise progesterone levels which may affect women with PMS which can be caused by high levels of progesterone.

Studies have found that a chaste berry extract called Arnolyt helps control acne in both young women and men. Vitex is primarily used to treat hormonal imbalances especially in the female body. It can be used to improve the production of breast milk, to treat PMS, irregular periods, and the symptoms of menses such as bloating and depression.

Chickweed  Tea

Traditionally, chickweed has been used to reduce congestion from the common cold. It has anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful for soothing the respiratory system. Chickweed is rich in calcium, potassium, magnesium and Vitamin C. It has astringent properties and it is often used in lotions to moisturize and soothe skin affected by rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.

Recently, it has been recommended as a weight loss aid as it decreases appetite, is a mild diuretic and aids in clearing toxins from the system.

Chickweed is generally regarded as safe as a topical skin treatment, but it should not be taken internally by pregnant/nursing women or by children.

Cranberries Tea

Cranberry (and tea made from cranberries) is considered a “superfood”, containing powerful anti-oxidant properties. Cranberry tea can prevent or slow the progression of gum disease or gingivitis. Maintaining healthy gums is vital to our overall health.

Cranberries have traditionally been used to treat kidney and bladder infections as well as candida and bacterial infections. They contain high amounts of potassium and vitamin C. Cranberry contains organic acids that actually eat away at fat deposits flushing them out of the system. The powerful anti -bacterial properties of the cranberry help to form a defense against degenerative eye diseases.

Corn Silk Tea

Corn silk is a sweet, soothing, cooling herb that has detoxifying, relaxing, diuretic and antiseptic properties. Used to treat infections of the urinary systems such as cystitis, prostatitis, urethritis. Corn silk helps to reduce frequent urination caused by irritation of the bladder and is used to treat bed-wetting problems in children. In China, corn silk is used to treat edema and jaundice. Studies show it can reduce blood-clotting time and reduce high blood pressure.

Corn silk is said to prevent and remedy infections of the bladder and kidney, diminish prostrate inflammation and painful urination. Since corn silk is used as a kidney remedy and in the regulation of fluids, the herb is believed to be helpful in treating high blood pressure and water retention. It is also beneficial for digestion.

Topical problems and skin irritations as well as inflammation can also be treated effectively and benefit from the corn silk’s healing and soothing abilities – as an external or topical treatment, the corn silk is also excellent for healing wounds and all types of ulcers affecting the skin.

Dande lion Root Tea

Dandelion root is a “blood purifier” that helps both the kidneys and the liver to improve elimination which in turn can help clear eczema-like skin problems. It’s use as a diuretic helpful because it replaces the potassium that most diuretics remove.

Dandelion contains choline that can prevent the fatty degeneration of the liver. The root has been used to treat liver diseases and gallbladder problems because it stimulates bile production. Recent research shows dandelion inhibits the growth of the fungus responsible for vaginal yeast infections.

Dong Quai Tea

Dong Quai is considered the female “master herb” and has been used throughout many eastern cultures as a long-term tonic. In Chinese medicine, Dong Quai is believe to work best in patients with a yin profile, and is considered to be a mildly warming herb.

Dong Quai is thought to return the body to proper order by nourishing the blood and harmonizing vital energy. Helpful for maintaining normal gynecological functions, regulating female hormone cycles, and alleviating cramps and hot flashes. The name Dong Quai translates as “return to order” based on its alleged restorative properties. Dong Quai was introduced in the West by Chinese settlers in 1899.

Echinacea Tea

Many herbalists recommend Echinacea to boost the immune system and help the body fight infections. Echinacea is used to shorten the duration of the common cold and flu and reduce symptoms of such as sore throat, cough and fever. It should be taken at the first sign of illness and should not be taken for more than 10 days.

Elder Flower & Elder Berry Tea

The flowers are used as an expectorant, reduces phlegm, circulatory stimulant, promotes sweating, diuretic, topical anti -inflammatory and have anti-viral properties. The flowering tops tone the mucous lining of the nose and throat increasing their resistance to infection. The flowers are prescribed for chronic congestion, allergies, and ear infections.

The Elder berries help coughs, colic, sore throats, asthma and flu.

Eleuthero Root Tea

Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng) is an adaptogen that helps the entire body adapt to stress. It is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a nerve energizer and blood circulator. It’s tonifying and cardiotonic qualities support the immune system, stimulate the adrenal glands, improve memory, endurance, vitality and to balance hormone levels in both men and women.

Essiac Tea

Rene M. Caisse was a nurse from Bracebridge, Ontario who come into possession of an herbal formula that had been handed down by native Candians of the Ojibway tribe. Essiac (Caisse spelled backwards) is a blend of four herbs: Burdock Root, Slippery Elm Inner Bark, Sheep Sorrel and Indian Rhubarb Root.

These four herbs may help normalize body systems by cleansing the blood, purging toxic build-up, promoting cell repair and aiding in effective assimilation and elimination. When combined, it is believed that their separate beneficial effects are enhanced. These herbs are grown without the use of herbicides or pesticides and contain no preservatives.

Not to be used by pregnant or nursing women or by children under 10 years old.

Eucalyptus Leaf Tea

Eucalyptus is used in remedies to treat coughs, sore throats and the common cold. It has strong anti-bacterial properties acts as an expectorant. Drinking a cup at bedtime is said to stop snoring.

Eyebright Tea

As an eyewash, eyebright contains astringent and antibiotic principles that are useful for cleansing the eye. Its ability to counter mucus means that it is often used for infectious and allergic conditions affecting the eyes, middle ear, sinuses and nasal passages.

Fennel Tea

Fennel has been used to treat digestive ailments since the time of the ancient Egyptians. Recent studies support the traditional use of fennel as a digestive aid. It has been shown to relieve intestinal spasms and cramping in the smooth muscle lining of the digestive tract.

Commission E, an expert panel in Germany that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of herbs endorses fennel for the treatment of digestive upsets, including indigestion, gas pains, irritable bowel syndrome and infant colic. Some studies have shown the effectiveness of fennel to be comparable to that of Mylanta, Gaviscon and Maalox.

Today, fennel us an active ingredient in many combination herbal formulas used to balance hormones in menopausal and premenstrual women. Fennel acts as a phytoestrogen in the body, stimulating the effects of estrogen in the system.

Fenugreek Seed Tea

Fenugreek is one of the oldest cultivated herbs traditionally used in Greece, Egypt and China. Fenugreek has many beneficial effects on the respiratory system and is an effective treatment for lung disorders. It has beneficial effect on the respiratory system and is used to treat lung disorders. Traditionally used for maintaining digestive and respiratory health.

Feverfew Tea

Feverfew can help arthritic and has been shown to be effective in relieving migraine pain. Patients using Feverfew had fewer migraines and less severe symptoms as it contains parthenolide which helps prevent blood vessels from dilating.

Goldenseal  Tea

Goldenseal is considered valuable for treating infection, inflammation and congestion as it dries and cleanses the mucous membranes inhibiting excessive flow. The primary constituents are hydrastine and berberine, which can help lower blood pressure and destroy many types of bacterial and viral infections.

Goldenseal may also boost sluggish glandular systems, regulate liver function and strengthen the immune system. Goldenseal is most effective when used to treat an active infection for no more than 10 days and then discontinued.

Ginger Tea

Ginger root is an aromatic and spicy herb that has been used for centuries as both food and medicine. Ginger root is warming to the body, is slightly antiseptic and promotes internal secretions. Ginger tea helps indigestions, colic, and diarrhea and can settle upset stomachs due to motion or morning sickness. The tea is well known for treating upset stomach and queasiness and is often called the "traveler's remedy".

Ginger root is actually an underground stem (rhizome) - not a root. Tea made from the Ginger(rhizome) contains more than 12 antioxidants which have beneficial amounts of vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium potassium. It has strong anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties have shown that it is useful for treating most kinds of arthritis.

Ginger helps reduce serum cholesterol levels and reduces tendency toward blood clots. Ginger gives other herbs a boost by improving the body’s ability to assimilate them and keeps them from being destroyed by the liver so they can circulate in the blood for a longer time.

Ginseng Tea

Ginseng is well known as an “adaptogen” which describes its ability to regulate many different functions. It can produce different responses depending on what an individual needs. Studies show that ginseng increases mental and physical efficiency and resistance to stress and disease.

Ginseng appears to stimulate the central nervous system and the immune system. It revs up white blood cells (macrophages and natural killer cells) that devour disease-causing microorganisms. Ginseng can minimize cell damage from radiation and provides protection against damage to healthy cells during cancer radiation therapy.

Generally, American ginseng is milder than Asian ginseng.

Gotu Kola Tea

Used medicinally for centuries, Gotu Kola stimulates the regeneration of skin cells and connective tissue. It is used to treat skin inflammations, improve blood circulation, and relieve varicose veins. In a study published in Annals of Plastic Surgery, gotu kola was shown to accelerate the healing of burns and minimize scarring. It is used to heal wounds, treat skin conditions and strengthen skin, hair and nails. According to recent studies, gotu kola supports healthy memory function.

Hawthorn Berries Tea

Hawthorn is used to treat angina, coronary artery disease and circulatory. Hawthorn normalizes the heart and circulation, lowering or raising blood pressure according to need. Hawthorn lowers blood pressure by dilating surface blood vessels as opposed to directly acting on the heart and does not have an accumulated effect on the heart tissue.

Combined with ginkgo, hawthorn is used to enhance poor memory by improving the circulation of blood to the head which increases the amount of oxygen to the brain. The bioflavonoids in hawthorn are potent antioxidants.

Hawthorn tea has a long history in both folk medicine and clinical medicine as a heart tonic. The herb of the hawthorn plant is typically used to improve cardiovascular function, as it increases the supply of blood to the heart muscle, resulting in enhanced circulation throughout the body. It has been shown to help stabilize Angina Pectoris as well as aiding recovery from heart attacks and can help with high cholesterol levels. Called Nature's valium, hawthorn tea reduces irritability and relaxes your muscles, especially the heart.

Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus is said to relax muscles and lower blood pressure and may control cholesterol. It also helps to purify the blood and improve skin complexion and promote hair growth. It is rich in Vitamin C and may strengthen the immune system.

Hibiscus tea contains an enzyme inhibitor which blocks the production of amylase, an enzyme that breaks down complex sugars and starches. Drinking a cup of hibiscus tea after meals reduces the absorption of dietary carbohydrates.

Hibiscus tea is full of compounds called flavonoids which help dilate blood vessels. Drinking three cups a day for six weeks has been shown to lower blood pressure by more than seven points, says Tori Hudson (AWomansTime.com) author of Women's Encyclopedia of Natural medicine.

Honeybush Tea

Grown only in South Africa, Honeybush can be brewed into a naturally low-tannin, caffeine-free tea that is rich in mineral content. The tea tastes of honey and apricots. Used for centuries by the local population to calm coughs, support milk production in nursing mothers, and as a colic remedy for infants. The tea has a soothing, calming effect that relieves stress.

Hops Flower Tea

Tea made from hops flowers is calming and helps to promote restful sleep. It also encourages milk production in nursing mothers. Hops contain plant estrogens which may be helpful in alleviating common symptoms of PMS and menopause.

Horsetail Tea

Horsetail can control heavy bleeding from injury, nosebleeds and menstruation. The other main use is repair serious damage to the lungs caused by disease. Horsetail promotes elasticity to skin, hair and nails. It also aids in calcium absorption.

Hyssop Tea

Hyssop is an expectorant used to treat lung conditions, specifically bronchitis, especially when there is excessive mucus production. Studies show it to be an anti -viral that is effective against the herpes simplex virus. Hyssop cleanses and purifies the body. Hyssop also contains ursolic acid that reduces inflammation so the tea makes a good sore throat gargle. It is included in some over-the-counter remedies to reduce congestion and fevers.

Historically known as a holy plant used in cleansing rituals. Hyssop tea loosens mucus in the throat and lungs and is commonly used as an expectorant. Herbalists believe hyssop relieves gas, bloating and cramping and that is effective for cleansing the urinary tract.

Pregnant/nursing women should not drink hyssop tea.

Jasmine Tea

Jasmine flowers combined with green tea has a calming and soothing effect. The tea is a powerful antioxidant and may help fat and cholesterol from being absorbed in the body. The scent and relaxing properties of jasmine have given it a reputation as an aphrodisiac.

Juniper Berry Tea

Mostly used are the green, unripe berries because the properties are more pronounced. It is a diuretic, stimulant, stomachic and carminative. Berries are used for urinary infections, and recommended to clear acid wastes from the system in cases of arthritis and gout. Juniper contains a potent anti-viral compound. The extracts appear to inhibit a number of different viruses including those that cause flu and herpes. Juniper berries have a strong antiseptic property that may help to clear infections such as cystitis.

Kava Kava Tea

Kava promotes feelings of relaxation and well-being and improves mental function. The active chemical ingredients in kava, called kavalactones act in the same way as tranquilizers without the side effects such as mental fog or drowsiness. It is also used to treat restless leg syndrome and menstrual cramps. Herbalists often recommend this herb to treat urinary tract infection, headache, and toothache.

Do not take kava if you are pregnant or nursing, have liver disease or are taking antidepressants. Alcohol should be avoided when taking this herb.

Milk Thistle Tea

Milk Thistle protects the liver from toxins and encourages the liver to cleanse itself of damaging substances such as alcohol, drugs, medications, mercury and heavy metals, and pesticides. The key constituent of milk thistle is silymarin, a substance that helps protect the liver.

Part II is coming.