Your metabolism needs to be increased if weight loss is your objective…writes Olivia Sarkar
It’s common knowledge that a slow metabolism can make losing weight more difficult. Not everybody has a rapid metabolism. Your metabolism needs to be increased if weight loss is your objective. IANSlife outlines all the beverages that will speed up metabolism.
Green tea
There is a reason why drinking green tea can help you lose weight. It contains catechins, an antioxidant with a reputation for enhancing metabolism. To benefit from green tea’s health advantages, sip on a cup or two of it each day.
Fennel tea
Fennel seeds, also known as saunf, are excellent for digestion and boosting metabolism. Because it not only gives your tongue the necessary mint flavor but also helps with digestion, it is frequently served as a mouth refresher.
To make fennel tea, boil two cups of water and pour it into a pan, add 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds, bring it to boil, add some lemon juice and honey to enhance the taste.
Carom seeds detox water
Carom or ajwain seeds are excellent for digestion. These have been utilized for their therapeutic properties for years. Ajwain aids with hunger control, betters digestion, and promotes weight loss. Take two cups of water and overnight soak one teaspoon of ajwain in it to create ajwain detox water. The mixture should be boiled, strained, and served warm. To improve the flavor, you can also add lemon.
Ginger lemon drink
The ginger lemon drink is excellent for gastrointestinal tract issues in addition to weight loss. It aids in the prevention of bloating and cramps. Lemon is a wonderful detox drink and helps the intestines because it contains pectin and vitamin C.
To make the ginger lemon drink, take one glass of water in a mixer, add some ice, 1-inch ginger and mint leaves. Blend nicely, add one tablespoon of lemon juice and honey to enhance the taste.
Apple Cider vinegar
Before eating, combine one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with water. By doing this, you might raise your metabolism and decrease your appetite, which will keep you from reaching for harmful foods.
Chai, Tea, Cha; different names but shared emotions(ianslife)
Tea lovers go by the motto ‘United we stand’ thus always finding ways to draw others of their type…reports Parimal Shah
Beginning our day by sipping hot tea is a routine practice in India. Besides, it inculcates a sense of community among the people. Being an affordable beverage, tea is loved by one and all irrespective of socioeconomic differences. Chai is an important part of the hospitality culture of India and is the go-to choice for every occasion. With a country that believes in ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, you just can’t let a visitor go from your house without serving them your specialty tea. If you are curious why tea is so important in India, give this article a read.
When every season is the chai season: The love for tea knows no bounds (and seasons); be it the chilling winter or the sweltering summer days, chai lovers root for their favourite beverage irrespective of the weather. Not to forget the monsoon when the combination of pakora with chai heals everyone’s souls amid the pitter-patter of the rain. The spices in chai, such as cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, are naturally warming and can help boost circulation and provide a sense of comfort on chilly days.
Your best buddy in fitness journey: Full of antioxidants, tea serves more than a source to refresh your soul. Chai is a natural source of caffeine which can help boost energy levels and improve focus during your workouts. Coming in different flavours, certain teas, for instance, honey green tea revitalize the body and also help in losing belly fat. Add a dash of your favourite spice to the tea: cinnamon, ginger, clove, or cardamom, and voila you have the best-tasting tea with health benefits.
5 Teas to Pick for a Healthier Body & Mind.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Beating the office blues: By enhancing your concentration and energising, beating Monday blues or in general the stress of nailing important office meetings becomes a tad easier when you have charged yourself with your favourite caffeine-packed cuppa. Tea lovers go by the motto ‘United we stand’ thus always finding ways to draw others of their type.
Sense of belonging: One may even find their clique at tapris (small tea stalls that can be spotted on every other road in the country). From being acquaintances to becoming friends that bond over topics ranging from the latest political developments to discussing finances to sharing life experiences, tea catalyses connections. Indulging in tea with the right person leads to everlasting memories. Besides, the most common remedy to provide comfort and healing for colds and headaches is a steaming cup of tea made with love and care.
A great conversation starter: bonding over tea hits differently. Ever found yourself in a situation where you do not know where to start pouring your heart out when things get a bit overwhelming? Well, spending quality time with a trusted family member or friend over a cup of tea helps unload the burden, as chai gives us much-needed warmth.
5 binge-worthy snacks to pair with your favourite show.(photo:IANSLIFE)
When snack time means chai time: Whenever the hunger pangs begin to bother and the time to have the regular meal is a couple of hours away, chai with biscuits is the go-to choice for tea connoisseurs to beat that hankering. To unwind after a hectic day at school or work, tea is the best beverage we look forward to.
Not liking tea can be difficult when there are so many reasons to go head over heels for this beverage. Tea, for one, is a great conversation starter. Unlike seasons, the love for tea never changes for a tea enthusiast. It is not just a beverage but an emotion that unites people. Whether you are rich or poor, young or old, everyone loves a good cup of chai. Most Indian families have their own version of tea, and they carry that secret recipe as a legacy wherever they go. Besides invigorating the senses and increasing attention, certain varieties of tea, like green tea, help with weight management. This is all the more reason for people to cherish tea.
Tea contains tannins, which can bind to minerals such as iron and calcium, making them less available for absorption by the body…reports Asian Lite News
Tea is not only a tasty beverage to drink with friends, to welcome guests with, or to have by our sides when we want to be alone with our thoughts, but it also has many health benefits, such as the catechins and antioxidants in black tea, which can enhance immunity and metabolism.
Drinking bed tea first thing in the morning is a typical practice in the majority of Indian households. While tea can be a delicious and comforting beverage, it does contain caffeine, which is a stimulant that can have an impact on the body. Drinking tea or any other caffeinated beverage first thing in the morning on an empty stomach can lead to increased acidity and digestive discomfort. This is because caffeine can stimulate the production of stomach acid, which can cause irritation and inflammation.
Additionally, drinking tea in the morning can interfere with the body’s natural cortisol production. According to Dietician Vidhi Chawla, “Cortisol is a hormone that helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and provides energy throughout the day. When you consume caffeine in the morning, it can interfere with the body’s ability to produce cortisol, which can lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness later in the day.”
Vidhi Chawla, the founder of Fisico Diet Clinic, highlights several potential negative effects of drinking tea first thing in the morning:
Stomach irritation: Drinking tea on an empty stomach can cause irritation in the stomach lining, leading to discomfort, bloating, and nausea.
Dehydration: Tea is a diuretic, which means it increases urine output and can cause dehydration, especially in the morning when your body is already dehydrated from not having any water for several hours.
Disrupts nutrient absorption: Tea contains tannins, which can bind to minerals such as iron and calcium, making them less available for absorption by the body.
Here’s why you need to stop drinking tea first thing in the morning(ianslife)
Tooth decay: Tea contains natural acids that can erode tooth enamel, especially when consumed in large amounts or over a long period.
The optimum time to consume tea, according to celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija, is in the middle of the morning after breakfast because this is when our metabolic process begins to work smoothly.
Makhija also suggests, “Boost your morning with wholesome alternatives. The morning should be spent consuming alkaline beverages like buttermilk or lukewarm water with a pinch of Himalayan pink salt, claims Lokendra Tomar. To reset your system after a long night of sleep, you can even start your day with lime or methi water. Aloe vera juice, simple coconut water, raw honey, and a few drops of apple cider vinegar or coconut vinegar in water are more healthy alternatives. These beverages are far healthier and superior to a hot cup of tea first thing in the morning.”
5 Teas to Pick for a Healthier Body & Mind.(photo:IANSLIFE)
Turmeric is known to be a healing superfood with anti-inflammatory properties. It is super accessible, can be made easily at home, and can be a caffeine-free beverage…writes N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
People around the world are slowly starting to understand the importance of good health and that sure does require some lifestyle changes. While exercising and staying active is one of the top-recommended suggestions to stay healthy, our everyday choices of beverages can also make a lot of difference. We all have a favourite tea or at least one we prefer over others but did you know, some of them can actually help you achieve your health goals?
Whether you wish to keep your weight in check or manage any illness or stress, there is a tea for every health problem that can give you much-needed relief. Wondering where to start from? Bala Sarda, Founder & CEO of VAHDAM India shares top 5 teas to pick from and bring about that change in your lifestyle you have been meaning to!
Turmeric Teas
Turmeric is known to be a healing superfood with anti-inflammatory properties. Its benefits are commonly known but that isn’t the only reason it is a top pick. Turmeric is super accessible, can be made easily at home, and can be a caffeine-free beverage. Its spicy kick can be paired with a number of herbs too hence it’s truly versatile. If you wish to skip the hassle of brewing the perfect cup of turmeric tea, you can also try VAHDAM- India’s range of Caffeine-Free Turmeric Herbal Teas
Chamomile Teas
There’s hardly anyone who doesn’t enjoy being calm and relaxed and chamomile teas are known to give you this exact feeling. Not just that, Chamomile is recommended for various reasons. It promotes better sleep and alleviates stress and anxiety. It also helps with menstrual pain, osteoporosis, and even symptoms of a cold. You can have a cup of Chamomile tea in the mid-afternoon or a few hours before bedtime to enjoy its benefits.
Hibiscus Teas
If you enjoy a citrusy brew with floral notes then this is the perfect pick for you. Another caffeine-free herbal tea, hibiscus tea can help fight certain cancers and help manage blood pressure. It boosts liver health and may also be helpful in losing weight. Hibiscus tea is super easy to brew- However, homemade or ready-made available tea is a great option to switch to.
Benefits of Spiced Teas in Winter(ianslife)
Oolong Teas
This partially oxidized tea is genuinely underrated and it’s time we shine a light on its endless benefits. Oolong tea contains polyphenols which offer amazing health benefits. It can also help reduce cholesterol levels and support healthy heart function. If you enjoy the flavor profile of green tea and wish to try something robust, give Oolong tea a try. If you’re looking for 100% real Oolong tea, explore VAHDAM’s Oolong tea.
Ginger Tea
You may have had a cup or two of ginger tea whenever you’d fall sick. It is one tea that comes to everyone’s mind when treating sore throat, cough, and the common cold. Ginger tea can also help prevent digestive issues and is an effective remedy for nausea. It contains gingerols, the compound that lends it a characteristic taste and smell which can also help with diabetes. You can brew a cup with fresh ginger as it is or mixes it with your black tea, chai tea (with or without milk depending on your preference), and green tea as well. Some ingredients best paired to brew ginger tea are available in your pantry. Herbs and spices like amla, lemon, black pepper, honey, and turmeric when blended with ginger enhance its antioxidant properties.
As comedians, we are always looking for new ways to connect with audiences, and what better way to do so than over a cup of Chai…says Amuleek Bijral
Some of the top comedians in the nation will perform stand-up comedy every Wednesday through November at a few Chai Point locations in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Gurugram. Under its community effort IROC – I Run on Chai, which aims to bring chai enthusiasts together to express themselves, be inspired, and engage over a fantastic cup of chai, Chai Point, a leading Chai-led beverage platform has introduced “Wit-Tea Wednesdays”.
Speaking about the initiative, Amuleek Bijral, CEO, Chai Point said, “As part of our community program, iROC (I Run on Chai), we have introduced ‘Wit-Tea Wednesdays’ at select Chai Point stores across multiple cities. Here country’s leading comic artists will doing standup comedy sessions in front of a live audience.
iROC vision is to develop the physical locations of Chai Point – stores as well as corporate sites – as centres of conversation and expression that bring people of common interests together. This initiative reinforces our brand purpose of ‘Serving a great cup that brightens lives & brings people together.”
Speaking about ‘Wit-Tea Wednesdays’ and his collaboration with this initiative, comedian Kunal Rao said, “IROC is a great platform for artists to connect with audiences. As comedians, we are always looking for new ways to connect with audiences, and what better way to do so than over a cup of Chai! We are excited to be a part of such a nice community initiative which brings people together!”
Up till the end of November, Chai Point will host Wit-Tea shows at a few of its locations in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Gurugram. Anirban Dasgupta, Anshu Mor, Angad Ranyal, and Kunal Rao are a few additional well-known performers who will be headlining the events in addition to Sorabh Pant.
Allow a teaspoon of green tea to steep in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. if it’s too bitter, add some lemon and honey to sweeten it up…writes N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe
If you are on your period, you will experience moderate cramping. These cramps are excruciatingly unpleasant, and you must make adjustments to your normal routine. To get rid of it, most women use medication. But a cup of tea can also help to relieve pain, relax your abdominal muscles, and help you get through your period. A cup of tea can also help relieve other symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and diarrhoea that are common during menstruation.
Harshada Bansal, Founder of The Tea Heaven shares teas to Help with Menstrual Cramps:
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea, which is pale and refreshing, is an excellent pick-me-up for individuals suffering from unpleasant cramps and stomach problems as a result of inconvenient periods. Because peppermint tea is a muscle relaxant, it can help your body release tension and relieve the pain caused by contractions almost immediately. Peppermint tea can also assist with bloating, diarrhoea, and headaches, which are all common side effects of menstrual cramps.
In a teapot, combine 1 bunch of fresh or 1 teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves. Allow it to steep for 5 minutes in boiling water.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea can help with menstrual pain relief, sleep improvement, and fatigue reduction. Add dried chamomile flowers to a kettle to prepare chamomile tea. Pour boiling water over the tea and steep for 5-6 minutes. Pour into teacups, top with raw honey, and enjoy a relaxing cup of chamomile tea.
Ginger Tea
Ginger has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and energy-boosting properties. Ginger tea can also be used to treat anxiety, headaches, and mood swings. Make a hot cup of ginger tea by steeping ginger and tea leaves in hot water or milk for seven to eight minutes over low heat. For optimal benefits, consume it two to three times a day during your period.
Green Tea
Green tea helps to regulate blood flow, control iron levels, and maintain haemoglobin levels during periods. Green tea inhibits the production of lumps due to its low caffeine content. Green tea can also help with mood enhancement during menstruation. It includes theanine, which has calming and mood-lifting properties.
Allow a teaspoon of green tea to steep in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. if it’s too bitter, add some lemon and honey to sweeten it up.
The Cameron Highlands, steeped in rich tea-making traditions, is famous for its impressive emerald tea estates and breathtaking mountain views…reports Asian Lite News
Tea, tea, tea! Most people can’t get enough of this soothing brew. On May 21st, International Tea Day celebrates the cultural and economic significance of tea around the world, emphasizing how much joy and comfort this beverage can bring.
Booking.com commemorates the occasion by compiling a list of five tea-themed destinations from around the world. With 44 percent of Indian travellers eager to try the best places for food and drink on their next trip, International Tea Day is the ideal excuse to visit historic and scenic locations.
Tea is a global phenomenon, and every country, from Argentina to Malaysia, has its own way of drinking it. Discover the exciting destinations behind the drinks, from the rich flavourful tea leaves of Darjeeling to the vibrant mint leaves of Morocco.
Darjeeling, India
The West Bengal district of Darjeeling is known for its abundance of tea gardens, with over 80 stretching across acres of land. The emerald-green Darjeeling Tea Garden, located in the foothills of the mountains, produces tea with such an intense aroma and spicy flavour that it’s often referred to as the ‘champagne of teas.’ When not admiring the majestic Khangchendzonga, the world’s third highest peak, visitors can visit Buddhist monasteries and ride the 140-year-old Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Where to stay: The blissful hill resort Mayfair Darjeeling, with spectacular views overlooking the valley, is a tranquil spot with easy access to the Darjeeling Tea Garden. Classic Indian rooms exude old world charm and elegance with carved wooden furnishings and colourful prints. The hotel features a spa, state-of-the-art gym, pool and tea boutique. Wake up to birdsong and spend the day exploring the stunning tea gardens.
Harrogate, United Kingdom
English breakfast tea is a British tradition that has evolved over time to include a variety of brews such as decaf and gold standard. Harrogate is home to one of the UK’s most popular Yorkshire tea brands, which blends tea leaves from Assam and East Africa to create unique, flavorful combinations. Visit York and enjoy a delightful Afternoon Tea Boat Cruise along the picturesque River Ouse, where visitors will learn about the city’s mediaeval history. York Minster, one of the world’s largest and most beautiful Gothic cathedrals, is a must-see.
Where to stay: The Chapel Boutique Bed and Breakfast, situated in the heart of the town, is ideally located near local sites including the Harrogate Turkish Baths, Royal Hall Theatre and Royal Pump Room Museum as well as the famous Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms, serving delicious afternoon teas in Harrogate since 1919. The unique grade II listed chapel conversion boasts luxe rooms with an eccentric and eclectic mix of styles. Following a day of sightseeing and tea tasting, relax on the large balcony overlooking the lush gardens.
Meknes, Morocco
Morocco’s favourite beverage is refreshing mint tea. Various blends are produced throughout the country, but the vibrant mint leaves from the picturesque hilltop city of Meknes are said to be the best. A UNESCO-listed ancient medina, meander around the old town to find everything from specialist souks selling beautiful crafts and textiles to teahouses in hidden courtyards and even the occasional donkey strolling around.
Where to stay: Stay in the heart of Meknes at the impressive Riad Mama H&K. Traditionally decorated with the authentic architecture of Morocco including hand-carved wood and geometric tiles, the hotel also features a pretty outdoor terrace. Discover local dishes from tangines to seafood in all their richness and variety at the on-site restaurant or relax by the fireplace with a soothing mint tea.
Misiones, Argentina
The herbal tea Yerba Mate is Argentina’s national drink, and is enjoyed for its energy-boosting qualities. It is said to have the strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea, and the joy of chocolate. The leaves are grown in the lush rainforests of Misiones, a northeastern province known for its red earth and papaya fields. The Iguaz National Park is located in Misiones and is home to the magical Iguaz Falls, the world’s largest waterfall, where visitors can see bright-billed toucans and colourful butterflies.
Where to stay: Self-catering bungalows Cabanas Doralia in the city of Obera feature a well-equipped kitchen, BBQ terrace, outdoor pool and exquisite garden views. The comfortable accommodation is located near La Ruta Del Te, an Argentinian tea house where travellers can learn from fourth generation tea producers and try Yerba Mate sweetened with agave and served with pastries for an afternoon treat.
Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
The Cameron Highlands, steeped in rich tea-making traditions, is famous for its impressive emerald tea estates and breathtaking mountain views. The Bharat Tea Estate is home to some of the world’s most popular tea brands, including Cameroon Valley, which draws flavour inspiration from Sri Lanka and South India. Visitors can quench their thirst with a special high tea at the estate’s Tea House before exploring the lush hilly terrain with moss-covered trees, rich wildlife, and exotic plants.
Where to stay: Located a short drive away from the Bharat Tea Estate is Heahtitude, a kitsch vintage guest house with modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy activities around the Cameron Highlands, including hiking and cycling in the Mossy Forest, where Rafflesia, the biggest flowers in the world, can be found. Between trekking and tea culture, it’s easy to unwind in the evenings on the beautiful riverside terrace.
However, the caffeine in the tea may make you wonder whether drinking tea can actually keep you hydrated during summers…writes Bala Sarda
Most of us enjoy sipping a cup of tea after meals or after waking up in the morning, not only for the health benefits but also as a daily way to relax.
When we are stressed, tired, confused, or anxious, the first thing that comes to mind is a cup of tea. It’s a magical drink that revives and rejuvenates us when we’re tired or exhausted. What most people do not know is that both Green and Black teas are made from the top leaves of the same tea plant – Camellia Sinensis. Though both of them are derived from the same plant, they differ significantly. According to research, almost every tea has similar health benefits.
Because green tea leaves aren’t fermented and don’t go through the oxidation process that black tea does, it’s particularly high in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), the most abundant catechin, with powerful antioxidant properties that can help fight cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other ailments. Green tea has a quarter of the caffeine content of coffee, making it healthier. As there is no oxidation in the manufacturing of green tea, EGCG is not converted into other forms and is retained. It promotes diet as well as exercise-based weight loss programmes. Green tea is great for midday breaks and evening meditation. It is less acidic, thus it washes acidic waste away. Detoxifying pure organic green tea gives you bright skin, a faster metabolism, and higher immunity. Green tea has its own set of advantages. It may surprise you to learn that a hot cup of green tea can be more refreshing than a cold beverage. Nothing like a cup of green tea to keep you cool on the inside as sweat streams down your brow. It also soothes your body because it includes theanine, a natural substance with a calming and soothing impact on the drinker.
During the fermentation process, the EGCG in black tea is converted to Theaflavins and Thearubigens. As a result, green tea outperforms black tea in terms of catechins quality and quantity. But Black tea is also healthy as it is abundant in antioxidants. It contains a third of the caffeine found in coffee, as well as L-Theanine – the combination of caffeine and L-Theanine helps stay mindfully alert. It also moisturizes the body and boosts blood flow to the brain while also strengthening the immune system with bacteria-fighting antioxidants. Black tea promotes concentration and focus and is an ‘eye-opener’ for the morning. The acidity in black tea is higher and hence, lemon is required to neutralise the acidity in mild black tea. When people talk about tea in Western culture, they frequently refer to black tea. Sun tea, sweet tea, iced tea, and afternoon tea are all popular tea beverages made with black tea. Even well-known blends like English Breakfast and Earl Grey contain black tea leaves. Thus, Black Tea is a popular drink not only in India, but also in other countries, and it is one of the most preferred drink in the summer due to its amazing benefits. It will undoubtedly keep you hydrated while also speeding up your metabolism.
As previously mentioned, there are some significant differences between black and green tea but there’s also a lot of variety within these categories, from mellow to robust black teas to vegetal to nutty green teas. Aside from black and green teas, there are also white, oolong, pu-erh, and purple teas, each with their own distinct differences and strengths. In the end, black and green tea have far more in common than they do differences. Whatever type of tea you choose, you can be confident that you’ll be drinking a healthy, flavourful cup!
However, the caffeine in the tea may make you wonder whether drinking tea can actually keep you hydrated during summers.
You’re probably aware that only one ingredient is required to make tea: water. Tea is usually made by boiling or heating water and then pouring it over a cluster of black or green tea leaves, which impart flavour and scent to the drink. This means that you’re drinking water while sipping a hot cup of tea. As a result, any type of tea is excellent for hydration and thus the perfect summer beverage.
To summarise, while both black tea and green tea are made from Camellia sinensis leaves, only difference is their processing methods. Hence, both black and green tea are excellent beverage options, and both will benefit your overall health if consumed in moderation. So, to unwind this summer, try any of the teas and see which one’s best suited for you.
Cinnamon tea, Cinnamon is usually used to flavour black teas, but it can also be used to flavour green, oolong, or puerh teas. It has a sweet, warming taste that goes well with fruit ingredients in tea drinks…writes Bala Sarda
Because they keep the body warm from within, hot beverages are synonymous with winter. Wearing your cosiest woollens and sipping a steaming hot beverage on a bright and sunny day is the order of the day this season. Did you know that adding a few spices to your tea can be extremely beneficial to your health?
In the winter, a hot cup of spiced tea can provide your body with much-needed warmth to combat the bone-chilling cold. Spices such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, saffron and ginger warm the body while also increasing metabolism and immunity.
Spices have been used in tea for nearly as long as tea has been consumed, and there are many different spiced tea drinks to choose from. Three of the most well-known spiced teas that should not be overlooked in the winter are:
Masala chai, also known as “chai tea”, is a popular spiced beverage. It can be made with a single spice (such as ginger or cloves) or with a combination of spices. Despite its origins in northern India, chai is now consumed in a wide range of locations worldwide.
Ginger tea, many spiced tea blends and freshly brewed spicy teas contain ginger tea. Green tea, black tea, puerh tea, and even oolong tea complement ginger well. It gives teas a warming, tangy, slightly sweet flavour. Ginger has been used in tea since antiquity and can now be found in teas all over the world.
Cinnamon tea, Cinnamon is usually used to flavour black teas, but it can also be used to flavour green, oolong, or puerh teas. It has a sweet, warming taste that goes well with fruit ingredients in tea drinks.
Some of the few benefits of having spiced tea in winter season are —
Boosts immunity: Antioxidants in spiced tea help to boost the body’s immune system and fight cold and flu symptoms.
Inflammation: Warm blends aid in the reduction of inflammation and pain. It is said that drinking saffron-infused tea or putting a few cloves in a boiling kettle of drinking water can help relieve pain by lowering inflammation in the body. Weight loss: Because spiced teas are low in calories but high in nutritional value, they are an ideal beverage for anyone looking to lose weight. Squeezing a few drops of lemon juice into your tea acts as an excellent body tonic and aids in hunger control.
Blood circulation: Due to a lack of activity, our bodies stiffen and blood circulation weakens during the winter months. Cinnamon tea improves blood circulation while also controlling blood sugar levels.
Improved digestion: During the winter, heavier foods, as well as a tendency to sit and avoid movement, increase the risk of digestive problems. Tea steeped with ginger, mint or star anise can aid digestion and relieve gastric distress, especially when consumed after or in between meals.
Boosts energy: Because energy drinks frequently contain high amounts of caffeine, which can be harmful to one’s health, spiced tea can be used as a natural energy booster with few to no negative side effects because it is high in critical nutrients and minerals.
Some varieties of tea where asafoetida is found are Masala Green tea, Kashmiri Kahwa tea, Kahwa Green tea, Ginger tea, Lemon Hing tea to name a few. From helping in reducing blood pressure to relieving asthma symptoms to aiding in digestion, asafoetida has plenty of health usage…writes Harmeet Singh
Tea is a universal drink that people around the world love to have in the mornings or evenings. Tea is one of the most consumed drinks in the world. The effortless process and diversity of tea have made it a popular drink across nations. Various ingredients and spices included in tea have the power to boost the immune system, reduce stress and anxiety and even defence against various diseases.
In India spices in tea have been used for thousands of years for their therapeutic and remedial properties. The addition of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, black peppercorns cloves etc. to tea not only enhance its taste but also increase the health benefits. These are the common spices that we use from our kitchens on a day-to-day basis and find commonly in all of the tea recipes that we see. However, there are a few spices like Asafoetida and Dandelion roots that are unique and the usage of both the spices are completely matchless for making a perfect tea blend.
The dried fluid collected from the roots of Ferula plants is known as asafoetida (Ferula asafoetida). While the plant is usually native to Afghanistan and Iraq, Asafoetida is widely used in Indian cuisine, where it is dried and powdered into a spice known as ‘Hing’. With antibacterial and antifungal properties this ingredient is highly beneficial for everyone. Not just this, asafoetida adds a new level of flavour to the tea with its health-related properties and distinct savoury taste.
Some varieties of tea where asafoetida is found are Masala Green tea, Kashmiri Kahwa tea, Kahwa Green tea, Ginger tea, Lemon Hing tea to name a few. From helping in reducing blood pressure to relieving asthma symptoms to aiding in digestion, asafoetida has plenty of health usage.
On the other hand, the Dandelion is a flowering plant family that can be found all over the world. Dandelion is a highly common plant in North America, and most people can identify it just by looking at it. It’s a tough plant that thrives in low-light environments where others struggle. Dandelion flowers, leaves, and roots can all be used to make dandelion tea.
Some varieties of tea where dandelion roots are found are Dandelion Root Tea, Butterscotch Tea, Lemon Dandelion Tea, Spiced Tea amongst others. Dandelion Roots are rich in nutrients and it helps in liver detoxification in a massive way.
A lot of people regard this plant as just another pesky weed that grows in their backyard but this plant is used for its medicinal properties. With its huge host of health advantages and a unique flavour, Dandelion makes another fantastic ingredient for a great tea blend.
(Harmeet Singh, Co-Founder, Healthy & Hygiene. IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)
