Spices are wonderful for adding additional flavor to your cup of tea, but did you know many also come with great health benefits?
Cinnamon comes from the bark of a tree and tends to add a hint of sweetness when added to your tea. It is believed to lower blood sugar for people with type II diabetes and may also lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Cinnamon is a great addition to Chamomile herbal tea and is also found in Chai teas. Adding this spice to teas like Berry Rooibos is a great way to add a Fall seasonal twist to a fabulous fruity tea.
Turmeric is another spice found in herbal teas that comes with health benefits. This trendy orange-yellow spice contains a component called curcumin, which may reduce swelling and inflammation for people with arthritis. Studies have also indicated it may reduce inflammation of the brain associated with Alzheimer's and depression.
Turmeric is a rhizome, which is basically a root. It comes from the same family as ginger, another fun spice for tea. The flavor of turmeric is often described as pungent and bitter. Mixing turmeric with other spices, like ginger, cinnamon, or cloves, can help with the flavor if you find your not a big fan. Turmeric Ginger or Turmeric Chai herbal teas are a few great options.
Ginger is a spice known to help reduce nausea. In ancient Asian culture, this spice was used to treat diarrhea, upset stomach, and other stomach ailments. Ginger is often recommended to pregnant women to help reduce nausea.
Cardamom, also in the ginger family, comes from seed pods. This spice has a strong, yet slightly sweet flavor and is known for many health benefits. Commonly found in Chai teas, this spice is packed with antioxidants. It has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels, may reduce inflammation, and has been used for thousands of year to aid digestion.
These are just a few of many spices found commonly in teas and their associated health benefits. Try adding a bit of spice in your next cup of tea!
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