If you are feeling the heat this summer, you are not alone! Rather than drink something unhealthy, let me give you a rundown of different chilled teas. All of these teas are as nutritious as they are delicious and suit the palate for all ages. As a disclaimer, all of these teas are technically not teas at all! They are called tisanes, herbal infusions that are used a create a tea-like drink that soothe the mind, body, and soul.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint is the favorite tisane for many. It has a bright minty flavor that leaves a cooling aftereffect. From candies to sugary treats, peppermint has been used for many medicinal purposes. This easy-to-grow herb is used for aiding digestion, soothing the stomach, treating headaches and migraines, and much more. It also has energizing properties, so it is a great pick me up during the day.
Mint tea is so significant in Moroccan culture that it is served to guests three times during a visit. This tea, called touareg tea, has a unique flavor with each serving. Although this is traditionally served hot, a cold version is just as enjoyable.
Other Benefits Include:
– Curing the common cold
– Curing bad breath
– Making your skin glow
Steep this tea for 5-6 minutes, 7 minutes for a strong cup.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is my ultimate favorite summer treat. It is a bit tart, with a hint of sweetness. In addition to having a beautiful dark pink color, hibiscus also helps to build red blood cells, which is great for people low in iron. It pairs well with fruit. Chill and add a few pineapple slices or blueberries to deepen the flavor.
Hibiscus tea has been using in different cultures as a healing potion. In parts of Africa, this tea has been used to heal many ailments such as heart disease and high cholesterol. In India, hibiscus is so revered that it is even given as an offering to the Goddess Kali.
Other Benefits Include:
– Supports collagen production
– Anti-inflammatory
– Stimulates poor appetite
Steep this tea for 4-5 minutes, 6 minutes max for a robust cup.
Rosehip Tea
A pitcher of rosehip tea is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also incredibly good for you. It has a mild floral flavor, like barely breathing in a bouquet of roses. If you need a tea that will help you calm your mind, this is the one for you. Rosehip tea helps reduce stress and anxiety. This tea is great before bed or during a moment of self-care.
Rosehip tea has been used as a tonic for well-being and is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Because it has no caffeine but is energizing, it is a great replacement for those looking to kick their morning coffee habit. It keeps you alert while also containing brain-boosting properties.
Other Benefits Include:
– Detoxes the body
– Boosts your immune system
– Aids in weight loss
– Helps cure insomnia
Steep this tea for 5-6 minutes, 7 minutes for a strong cup.
Fennel Tea
As a guinea pig, I tried all of the tisanes for this article. Fennel was the only tea I’d never had before, and it is surprisingly tasty. The tea, made with fennel seeds, has a subtle licorice-like taste. If you haven’t tried it yet, give this tea a go. It is perfect with liquid stevia after meals.
This has been used for generations as a digestive aid in many cultures. In India, fennel is even chewed on after meals in reduce bloat and incorporated into recipes. The Roman and Greek cultures also gave the tea to their soldiers to provide energy.
Other Benefits Include:
– Has Cancer-Killing Properties
– Aids Digestion
– Balances Hormones
– Cures Water Retention
Steep this tea for 5-6 minutes, 10 minutes for a really strong cup.
Peach Tea (and all other fruit teas!)
Fruit teas are the best! Fruit offers many antioxidants and the flavors are endless. You can mix and match and create a signature tea that you love. The fruit teas that I drink are usually made with dried fruit pieces that are steeped for long periods of time.
Benefits to Fruit Teas Include:
– Antioxidant boost
– Hydrates the body from the inside out
– Naturally cooling
– Clears skin, strengthens hair, and more
Steep fruit teas for as long as you like. The longer you steep, the more intense the flavor will be!
Summer is the time to have fun and relax. Give one of these teas a try, and stay healthy and refreshed.
Also by Kaci: How To Stay Cool & Calm In The Summer Heat, According to Your Dosha
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