Herbal tea has long been considered to offer various health benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, drinking tea is a common practice for disease prevention and boosting immunity. Which herbal teas can help maintain your immune system? Let's explore the options in this article.

Herbal Tea to Boost Your Immune System

Tea is one of the most popular beverages globally, second only to water and coffee. Tea is made by brewing dried buds and young leaves of the tea plant. Additionally, herbal teas, or tisanes, can be prepared from flowers, leaves, or other plant-based ingredients.

The immune-boosting properties of herbal tea are primarily linked to its antioxidant content, particularly polyphenols. Research indicates that consuming polyphenol-rich foods can help protect the body from chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

Furthermore, the antioxidants in herbal tea have been shown to stimulate the immune system's response to influenza, as well as help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Here are some herbal teas that can be consumed to support your immune system:

Green Tea

Green tea is made from unoxidized Camellia sinensis leaves. As one of the least processed types of tea, it retains a high level of antioxidants and polyphenols.

Green tea, with its mild and slightly bitter taste, is an excellent source of catechins, a type of polyphenol that serves as a crucial antioxidant for maintaining immune function.

A study conducted on mice showed that catechins can increase the number of regulatory T cells, which play a key role in regulating the immune system. This helps balance immune activity and prevent the body from attacking healthy cells.

Turmeric Tea

Studies suggest that turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants, both of which help support overall immune health. The curcumin in turmeric is effective in neutralizing free radicals, which is beneficial for keeping the immune system strong and functioning optimally.

Ginger Tea

Ginger contains gingerol, an antioxidant and bioactive compound that helps fight disease. Gingerol has been shown to boost immune function and reduce inflammation. Consuming ginger can aid in managing digestive issues, pain, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome.

However, it is important to note that consuming ginger during pregnancy or for individuals with specific health concerns may exacerbate symptoms. It is advised to consult a doctor before consuming ginger tea.

Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is made by brewing the petals of the hibiscus flower, offering a refreshing and slightly sour flavor. In addition to its antioxidant properties, hibiscus tea contains small amounts of potassium, calcium, magnesium, and other beneficial minerals.

Hibiscus tea is also rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that helps combat viral infections like bird flu. Anthocyanins protect body cells from disease, reduce inflammation, and help prevent tissue damage.

Black Tea

Black tea is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant. Its dark color comes from polyphenols known as theaflavins. The polyphenol content in black tea activates the body’s immune response. Drinking black tea is believed to lower levels of bad cholesterol and promote heart health.

Many herbal teas contain antioxidants that are beneficial for enhancing immunity. However, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and potential side effects of herbal teas.

Some ingredients in herbal teas may have negative effects on certain health conditions. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor before consuming these teas, particularly if you have specific health concerns or are taking medications.

If you have any questions about your health, you can consult a doctor or use the consultation feature on the Ai Care application, available for download from the App Store or Play Store.

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