We usually drink tea brewed with tealeaves. In China, the birthplace of tea, teas made with flowers or flower teas are extremely popular. Dried flowers are mildly processed to produce the flower tea. Tea made by brewing dried flowers has a distinct aroma of the flower. These teas are also beneficial for the health. Chrysanthemum, jasmine, rose, hibiscus, marigold and lavender are some popular flower varieties used for making flower tea.
Chrysanthemum tea has a sweet and refreshing flavor. To make this flower tea, dried white or yellow colored chrysanthemum flowers are steeped in hot water. Rock sugar or honey is added to enhance its sweetness. Chrysanthemum tea is a popular beverage in the summer months. The cooling property of this tea could prevent sore throat and fever caused by summer heat. In traditional Chinese medicine, chrysanthemum tea is taken to cure high blood pressure, liver inflammation, coronary heart disease and for improving vision.
A cup of warm jasmine tea could protect you from several illnesses. This heart friendly drink could lower the overall cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. The antibacterial property of jasmine tea could kill bacteria responsible for food poisoning. You can even sip a warm cup of jasmine tea to overcome stress and anxiety. Some studies have shown that regular intake of jasmine tea could prevent growth of cancer cells.
In Ayurveda, rose petals and hips are used for treating several illnesses. Rose is a rich source of vitamin C. The disease fighting property of rose is largely derived from its vitamin C deposit. Rose tea could help to heal respiratory infections. It could make the mucus watery and heal chest and nasal congestion. It is good for the gastrointestinal health. The detoxification property of rose helps to protect the body from the harmful affect of the toxins accumulating in the body. However, rose tea is sometimes associated with heartburn.
If you are suffering from hypertension, try to drink a cup of hibiscus tea everyday. By reducing the high blood pressure level, hibiscus tea could prevent strokes and heart attacks. Moreover, this caffeine free beverage is safe for people of all ages.