The first thing that comes to mind when “tea” is mentioned is the flavored hot drink prepared by the method of brewing a processed (semi-fermented: oolong, fully fermented: black tea) or unprocessed (green tea) tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.) with hot water. We usually use the expression "herbal tea" for those prepared from plants other than this.
The most told story about the discovery of tea is that the Chinese Emperor Shen-Nung, who ruled in 2700 BC, caught his attention and tasted it when the leaves coming from the surrounding plants by the wind fell into a cauldron of boiling water in the palace garden and changed the color of the water. it's like he likes it.
Plants have been used for therapeutic purposes throughout history, and tea is one of the oldest and simplest forms of drug administration. Its advantage is the easy absorption of beneficial chemicals that dissolve quickly in hot water in the digestive system, starting from the mouth. However, it would be wrong to consider the effects of herbal teas as miraculous. Its benefits come from the phytochemical components, vitamins and minerals it contains. This benefit is also related to the amount and frequency of use. In addition, since a plant does not contain only a single phytochemical, it would be wrong to talk about a one-way benefit, and it would be wrong to say that different mixtures will not have toxic or harmful effects. Since the beneficial components in the structure of each plant may not dissolve in water, tea cannot be made from every plant.
I thought to include only some of the plant species that we see physiological and psychological support in the protection of health in the winter season and also in weight control, together with their intended use and benefits. Because herbal teas are a very wide-ranging subject, they could even be the content of a whole magazine.
Green tea
Cardiovascular diseases due to its high antioxidant content and has been reported to have a protective effect against cancer. In addition, it has been reported that EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) in its structure accelerates fat metabolism and thus has an anti-obesity effect.
Senna Leaf   ;
It is effective against constipation. It achieves this effect by reducing the absorption of water and electrolytes in the large intestine, increasing the volume of intestinal contents and thus increasing the pressure, by acting as a stimulant laxative. However, in frequent use, it can cause intestinal irritation and laziness.
Echinacea
It is used as a preventative and treatment aid in upper respiratory tract infections. It has also been reported to kill viruses such as herpes virus.
Sage
It is used in indigestion complaints and loss of appetite. It is effective in mouth and throat infections and inflammations.
Linden flower
Alleviating complaints in colds, diaphoretic and expectorant, anti-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory It is used as a pain reliever. It also alleviates cough complaints.
Mate
It has a stimulating effect in mental and physical fatigue, thanks to the caffeine and chlorogenic acid in its structure.
St. St. John's Wort
It is used in mild and moderate depressions.
Ginger
It has preventive effects on motion sickness, morning sickness in pregnancy and nausea caused by drugs in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Consumption after fatty meals with its bile-enhancing effect helps digestion. Tea with lemon and honey is effective in colds and sore throats.
It should be reminded again that herbal teas should not be considered as definitive therapeutics, but should be evaluated as auxiliary in addition to expert advice and treatment. Exceeding the dose turns the drug into poison. Enjoy.
Read: 0