Cool Down with Some Iced Tea

It’s National Iced Tea Month! There is nothing like a refreshing glass of cold iced tea on a hot summer’s day, which is why June is a perfect time to celebrate. Iced Tea is a summertime staple and does a great job quenching your thirst.

Besides being refreshing, tea has many health benefits and can be enjoyed at any time! If you are not a tea drinker, you may just want to start drinking some!

Lets Have a Tea Party

Green tea and black tea are full of antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and prevent them from causing harm to the body.

Green and black teas have been shown to prevent atherosclerosis. They can lower your cholesterol and triglycerides, which lower your risk of coronary heart disease.
Green and black teas have been shown to reduce blood levels of harmful low-density lipoproteins (LDL – “bad”) cholesterol.
Green and black teas have been shown to help protect against some cancers.
Green tea may help reduce inflammation associated with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

Oolong tea is similar to green and black tea, but is only semi-fermented. According to the Tea Association of the United States, oolong tea falls somewhere between green and black teas and might be one of the most beneficial teas! It is full of antioxidants, promoting bone structure, robust skin and good dental health.

Oolong tea can reduce your risk of heart disease, inflammatory disorders and high cholesterol levels.
Oolong tea’s high antioxidant content can also help reduce your risk of strokes, cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, neurodegeneration and diabetes.
Oolong tea can help people with eczema. Researches believe the polyphenols in the tea work as anti-allergenic compounds, thereby relieving irritation and chronic skin problems.

Herbal teas are made from herbs, fruits, seeds, or roots steeped in hot water. They have a lower concentration of antioxidants than green, black and oolong teas.

Chamomile tea has soothing and calming effects. It can also help relieve stomach cramps and symptoms of IBS.
Peppermint tea is naturally caffeine free and can ease stomach cramps, soothe a sore throat and calm you when you’re stressed or anxious.
Mint, peppermint and spearmint teas can sooth sunburns. You can soak in a tea bath or use a cloth soaked in the teas as a compress.
Ginger tea helps with nausea, arthritis pain, weight loss, and lowers cholesterol.
Hibiscus tea is high in vitamin C and is known for lowering blood pressure and strengthening the immune system.
Lavender tea can soothe your mind and body by lifting your spirits or helping you sleep. It can also help soothe flatulence, bowel infections and an upset stomach.

What can I add to my tea?

If you are just starting to drink tea, you may know it can take a few tries before you start to enjoy their unique flavors. Some have an acquired taste, but I do have a few tips for you to add to your tea to enhance its flavor and make it more enjoyable!

Honey goes great with chamomile and green tea.
Fruit adds sweetness to chamomile tea.
Lemon tastes great in any tea and it’s an excellent source of vitamin C!
You can blend two types of teas together to create an interesting, delicious flavor just to your liking.

Your Turn to Take Action: How do you enjoy your favorite tea? Let me know in the comments section below.

Sources: https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/beverage/health-benefits-of-oolong-tea.html ; http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/green-tea