After a strenuous workout or a tiring day, all you wish for is a cup of tea. Tea is an essential component of our lives and its significance in helping us relax, energize or kick start our day cannot be overlooked. It is one of the most consumed drink in the world, after water. The most traditional form of tea is prepared by infusing leaves of Camellia Sinensis, a plant profusely found in Asia, with water. Most of the teas that we consume are made from the plant of Camellia Sinensis. However, there are some variations which are prepared from other parts of the plant such as flowers, fruits or leaves.
Herbal Teas
Today, tea making is no longer restricted to brewing of Camellia Sinensis plant only. There are many herbal tea options available with a lot of healing properties. These teas can be brewed easily and are considered as cost-effective energy and metabolism boosters.
When To Consume Tea
Ideally you can consume a cup of tea during breakfast, at midday, in the evening or even after a tiring workout. They help the body energize keeping it active and alert, while helping you improve your metabolism.
You can keep your body’s energy reserves high with any one of the following teas while keeping your taste preferences in mind.
Black Tea
The king of all teas, black tea is produced from the plant of Camellia Sinensis and contains highest concentration of caffeine as compared to its counterparts. It is top selling tea worldwide and is manufactured by fermenting the leaves for a few days before finally the tea-making process takes place. The black colour and the high caffeine percentage in the tea is due to the fermentation that precedes its manufacturing. Consumption of a single cup of black tea gives you around 100 milligrams of caffeine which you can get in half cup of coffee. Black tea comes in different forms such as tea blends and flavoured black teas.
Ginseng BrewA 3-4 inch root of a perennial plant, Ginseng has many types and is known to help get rid of fatigue and increase stamina. One of the most widely used type of this plant is Siberian Ginseng, which is often used as energy booster by athletes due to its stress-reducing abilities. The tea is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, arthritis or lupus. Of other types of ginseng, Korean ginseng is known to improve athletic performances, accelerate work efficiency and enhance body strength.
Ginger Herbal Tea
Used as a quick fix for stomach inflammation and digestive issues, ginger tea is packed with numerous health benefits. It is helpful in improving brain health, controlling blood sugar and cholesterol, burning fat, fighting viruses and relieving pain. It improves blood circulation, strengthens bones and helps relax the mind.
Green TeaIf you are seeking low-caffeine substitute to overcome your morning caffeine craving, relish in a cup of green tea. While it helps you kick start a lousy day, it also provides you with an improved metabolism with its antioxidants, antibiotic and anticarcinogenic properties. The tea is known for its thermogenic affects that increase the body temperature, accelerating the metabolic functions of the body. With its appetite curbing benefits, it ranks as a favourite brew amongst top Hollywood actors.
Licorice Brew
Also known as a universal herb, licorice is the best way to replenish lost reserves of energy after a gruelling workout. It revives strength by targeting the adrenal glands, which get overworked due to constant stress. Also a mood-enhancer, a cup of licorice brew is the perfect way to keep your sugar cravings in check.
Yerba Mate
A common substitute to Camellia Sinensis teas in South American countries, yerba mate is brewed by using stems and leaves of rainforest plants. It is known to contain natural caffeine that isn’t as strong as it is in other brewed drinks. Ideal for a quick energy revival after a strenuous workout, yerba mate helps stimulate the brain gently.