Herbal Drinks to Keep You Healthy in the Fall and Winter

As the cold starts to creep in and we change our outdoor lifestyle to an indoor one, we often have to take additional steps to stay as healthy as possible. While snuggling next to a warm fire with your family is great for your mental health, you still need to worry about colds and flus that seem to make the rounds as the fall and winter months descend upon us. You already have a good idea of what healthy food is out there for you, but the benefits of herbal drinks are rarely thought about during these cold days.

Choosing the Right Herbal Drink

While cost is often a factor in your choices, your herbal drinks should always be a well-sourced product made of the highest quality ingredients. Be careful about buying the cheap store shelf teas, some are great for you, but some will include essential oils and artificial flavors. Herbal teas rarely need additional flavor, so you want to ensure that you are going all natural for the full health benefit. If using tea bags, make sure they steep long enough, which may be as long as 10-15 minutes for the full benefit. 

 

Peppermint Tea

During the cold months you tend to turn to comfort foods and warm drinks and few drinks can give you the kick like peppermint tea. Not only is this a wonderful and fresh tasting tea it can help relieve muscle spasms, bloating, gas, nausea and helping to heat up the body. The one thing to keep in mind is that peppermint is not good for heartburn and indigestion. Peppermint is extremely easy to grow in your own garden, so consider making some homemade tea this fall.

Ginger Tea

This tea works similarly to peppermint tea as it helps cut down on nausea, vomiting and upset stomachs. All you need is a ginger root simmered on the stove for 10-15 minutes. Add some fresh lemon juice and honey to help fight off a cold. You can even make the tea from powdered ginger to warm up the cold days.

Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm is easy to grow and can really life your spirits. The cold necessitates much more time inside your home and can lead to cabin fever or the “winter blah” feelings that accompanies the dreary outdoors. In addition, lemon balm can also help improve concentration and is safe for children. It may even reduce or prevent nightmares when given just before bed time. Lemon and maple syrup are great additions to help make this tea something you and your children will look forward to having.

Rosehip Tea

The fruit of the rose plant is one of the best sources of vitamin C, which helps with your immune system, skin health and adrenal functions. Check out local health shops to get some rosehip and play with different recipes to find the one that makes the tea one of your go to winter drinks.

Jenni F. is a writer for HowDoIBe.com. If you are at all interested in a career in health, take a look at this site to learn more about earning your degree online!