Find Your “Cup of Tea”: How to Drink Health Teas for Maximum Benefits
In the fast-paced modern life where “996” work schedules are becoming the norm, many office workers rely on coffee and milk tea to keep going. However, a growing number of young people are turning to health teas purchased online to improve their well-being. A search for “health tea” on social media reveals over 1.5 million posts sharing drinking experiences and tips. With the plethora of health teas available, how can young people choose the right one for themselves? Dr. Zhong Zheng, a chief physician of traditional Chinese medicine at the Zengcheng Branch of Southern Medical University Southern Hospital, offers some advice.
1. Tailor to Your Constitution
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) emphasizes individualized treatment. Health teas are made from various herbs, each with different properties. When choosing a health tea, it’s important to consider your TCM constitution. For example, people with yang deficiency should drink teas that warm and strengthen the spleen, while those with damp-heat conditions should opt for teas that clear heat and reduce inflammation.
2. Drink According to the Seasons
TCM also highlights the importance of aligning with the seasons. Different types of health teas should be consumed in different seasons:
- Spring: Focus on nourishing the liver with teas like rose tea.
- Summer: Focus on calming the heart with teas like lotus leaf tea.
- Autumn: Focus on nourishing the lungs with teas like pear tea.
- Winter: Focus on warming the kidneys with teas like red date and goji berry tea.
3. Recommended Health Teas
Chrysanthemum and Goji Berry Tea
- Ingredients: Hangzhou white chrysanthemum, goji berries
- Suitable for: People who spend long hours on computers or phones, experiencing dizziness and dry eyes, and those with insomnia due to liver yang rising.
- Not suitable for: Those with cold spleen and stomach, body weakness, or women during menstruation due to the slightly cold nature of chrysanthemum.
Hawthorn and Lotus Leaf Tea
- Ingredients: Hawthorn, lotus leaf
- Suitable for: People with bloating, poor appetite, and those looking to manage their weight.
- Not suitable for: People with weak stomachs, excessive stomach acid, digestive ulcers, women during menstruation, and pregnant women. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach as hawthorn can irritate the stomach.
Longan and Red Date Tea
- Ingredients: Longan (dried longan meat), red dates
- Suitable for: People with weak spleen and stomach, insomnia, and palpitations.
- Not suitable for: Diabetics, people with gastroesophageal reflux, and those experiencing symptoms of “internal heat” due to the high sugar content of longan.
Xiangru and Mint Tea
- Ingredients: Xiangru (Elsholtzia), mint
- Suitable for: People who engage in outdoor activities or work in high temperatures during the summer. This tea should be boiled and cooled before drinking.
- Not suitable for: Those with yin deficiency, severe thirst, or kidney issues due to the warm and pungent nature of Xiangru.
4. Caution When Buying Health Teas Online
- Long-term Use: Many health teas are relatively mild, but it’s advisable to consult a professional TCM doctor if you plan to drink one type for an extended period.
- Health Conditions: Health teas are suitable for sub-health conditions but should not replace medication for diagnosed diseases.
- Drinking Temperature: The water temperature should not be too high to avoid scalding the esophageal mucosa.
- Beware of Exaggerated Claims: Some online sellers may exaggerate the health benefits of their teas or add hidden ingredients to boost effects. Consumers should be cautious and discerning when purchasing online.
By choosing the right health tea tailored to your constitution and needs, you can enjoy the benefits of this traditional wellness practice and maintain good health amidst a busy lifestyle.
