The power of tea

Plants used since the dawn of time

For centuries, plants have been used all over the world to create life-saving treatments. Sage, for example, was used in Egypt to promote women's fertility as far back as 6000 BC. As time went on, the major medicinal plants became a staple of the cloister gardens on the perimeter of monasteries and cathedrals. These medieval herb gardens included thyme, sage, fennel, mugwort, rosemary and many other aromatic and plants and herbs, which monks and doctors would use as natural remedies to heal their patients.

More than just a tea break

For many people, a cup of tea represents a moment of calm in a busy day. In between meetings or when the children have finally gone to bed, the feeling of that piping hot mug in your hands is the embodiment of relaxation and happiness. For others, it is a moment of togetherness: a pot of soothing herbs shared with friends after a long walk in nature, or a nice cup of tea sipped with a pal outside a café. Some plants, such as rosemary, mint or green tea, are a healthy and invigorating way of reducing our caffeine consumption, which is especially helpful if you are someone who has difficulty sleeping (1/4 of the caffeine that you consume remains in your bloodstream 12 hours later).

A true pharmacopoeia of plants

Plants are packed full of phytonutrients — active chemical compounds that help keep us healthy and support our immune systems. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main plants that can be used to make herbal teas or infusions, together with their powers:

Thyme is great for stimulating the immune system; helps fight ear, nose and throat and respiratory issues, and combat flu. It has exceptional antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic properties. Thyme helps to maintain a healthy balance of intestinal flora and helps digest difficult foods more quickly, making it your best friend after a heavy or fatty meal.

Sage can be helpful for women throughout their lives, except during pregnancy, breastfeeding or if suffering from certain diseases (such as hormone-dependent cancer). It helps to ease many menstrual and hormonal issues (cramps, ovulation problems, hot flushes and excessive sweating), as well as some digestive problems (flatulence, colitis, digestive issues or diarrhoea).

Linden has antispasmodic, calming and sedative properties. It is recommended to help with sleep, alleviates stress and anxiety, and is an effective way to fight a cold (by reducing nasal discharge). Tea is made by infusing the leaves and bracts of these plants.

Citrus verbena facilitates digestion and soothes stomach pains. It also has stress-relieving properties, so helps to promote sleep. That makes this the ideal herbal tea to settle down with at around 6.00 pm if you have trouble sleeping.

Peppermint is great for digestion and is rich in antioxidants. It helps to combat digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, gastritis and poor liver function.

Lemon balm has a pleasant, soothing effect on the nervous system. It has antispasmodic, carminative and sedative properties, and also helps to promote normal stomach function.

The common nettle grows all around us, but it has earned itself a bad reputation because of its nasty sting. However, nettles are rich in iron and vitamin C. They have anti-inflammatory properties and help to relieve coughs and colds. Full of antioxidants, they also help to effectively combat cell ageing. Nettle does also stimulate the production of bile, though, meaning it should be avoided if you suffer from gallbladder issues or hypertension.

Green tea is rich in polyphenols (antioxidants) and vitamin C. It is a very popular choice in Asia and can be found in many different forms: powder (matcha), rolled into balls (gunpowder), rolled into needles (sencha) or dried in its original shape (natural leaf).

Black tea comes from the same shrub as green tea — after harvesting, its leaves are simply dried in the sun for several hours and then fermented. Black tea contains polyphenols (catechins and flavonoids), which helps fight bad cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease. Be careful, though, as the tannins in green and black teas can inhibit iron absorption. This means it is best to avoid drinking these teas during meals, especially if you are prone to anaemia. Unlike coffee, the molecules in green and black tea contain theine, which has a gentler, longer-lasting stimulating effect. The caffeine in coffee tends to kick in quickly, but its effect does not last over time.

Rooibos tea (also called redbush or red tea) comes from the rooibos plant. Technically, it is not really tea because it does not contain theine or caffeine. It has positive effects on asthma, allergies and some skin conditions such as eczema. Rich in antioxidants, you can drink it in the evening, just like herbal teas.

How to choose and prepare your infusions

Always opt for loose-leaf teas from organic (and fragrant) plants rather than tea bags. This way, the leaves can unfold more easily in the water to take their original form and release their phytonutrients. Of course, you can also use fresh plants if you have them in your garden. Avoid boiling water (above 80 degrees), as this will make some teas taste bitter and reduce the plants' antioxidant properties. Use about 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf tea per mug of water. Leave to infuse for around 5 minutes.

To really feel the benefits, you should drink 4 cups per day for 21 days.

Remember that you can also make a cold infusion by simply immersing the dried plants in room-temperature water. Leave this to brew for 12 to 16 hours in a cool place before enjoying your refreshing drink.

Recipe for a bedtime brew

• 1 tsp rooibos tea

• 1 tsp dried linden

• 1 pinch dried lavender flowers

Infuse the plants in 300 ml warm water (75 degrees) for 5 minutes. Then, strain the mixture and sit back and enjoy your soothing herbal tea (taking care not to burn yourself). Drink this tea the evening, after dinner, to help you to drift off to sleep.