9 Herbal Teas for Every Common Ailment

What herbal tea is best for me?

Anytime someone in my house is recovering from an illness or had a stressful day, I turn to a cup of herbal tea to provide the support needed. Herbal teas, especially when crafted with a specific combination of herbs, are amazing allies in maintaining health and well being. Whether you're dealing with a headache, indigestion, or a common cold, there's likely an herbal tea that can provide relief.

In this article, I will share with you 9 different types of herbal teas, each carefully blended to address a specific common ailment. Keep in mind, herbal teas are not a replacement for conventional medical treatment and should only be used as a complementary support. Consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or are taking any medications / have any underlying health conditions. 

1. Best Tea for Digestion

There are many paths to the same place, and that's especially true with herbal tea recipes for digestion support. It's important to understand the root cause of your digestive discomfort to respond with the appropriate herb. Struggling with gas and bloating? Reach for a blend with fennel or chamomile like this Digestive herbal tea. Both are carminative herbs, meaning they prevent the formation of gas in the digestive tract.

The Digestive tea blend is also useful if you're dealing with sluggish digestion or constipation - we have the peppermint and ginger root to thank for that! I love drinking this minty tea after a big meal to ease any digestive discomfort and bloating, plus it's always a hit when served at dinner parties!

When my stomach feels a bit sour or crampy, I reach for a ginger-based herbal tea. Ginger has long been praised for its ability to soothe nausea and alleviate stomach upset. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm an irritated digestive system. Whether it's from motion sickness, morning sickness, or simply an upset stomach, a warm cup of ginger tea can work wonders.

What tea is good for heartburn, acid reflux? 

For those struggling with acid reflux or heartburn, try marshmallow tea. When you make an infusion from marshmallow root, it forms a thick, mucilaginous substance when ingested that coats the lining of the esophagus and stomach, providing relief from the burning sensation. This soothing effect makes marshmallow tea an effective remedy for gastrointestinal issues, as well as inflammatory conditions like interstitial cystitis.

Remember, everyone's body is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the herbal tea blend that works best for you. But once you do, it can become a soothing ritual that not only supports your digestion but also brings moments of relaxation and comfort to your day.

Herbalist Tip: For digestion + sleep support, try this Sleep Well blend. It combines chamomile with passionflower and hops to create a soothing blend that provides both digestive support and helps you unwind into the evening. 

2. Herbal Tea for Liver and Kidneys

The body is an interconnected system, and if something is off there is likely going to be a ripple effect throughout the rest of your body. This is especially true of the liver and kidneys, two vital organs responsible for detoxification and waste removal. Supporting these organs with the right herbs can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. From clear skin to a boost in energy levels, a healthy liver and kidneys can work wonders.

If you're wondering what tea is good for liver and kidneys, a blend with dandelion root and burdock root comes to mind. They are the base herbs of our Glow herbal tea because of their powerful detoxifying properties. Dandelion root helps stimulate bile production, aiding in the breakdown and elimination of toxins. Burdock root is known for its ability to support liver function and promote healthy kidney function, helping to flush out waste and excess fluid from the body.

The first couple of days I started using liver cleansing teas, I noticed a difference right away. I had prepared for the possible worsening of my acne which might happen as the body is clearing itself of toxins. To my surprise and delight, the redness of my acne seemed to improve within hours and after a few days of continuous use, my skin was clearer than it had been in years. 

3. Herbal Tea for Cholesterol

Hibiscus tea is a vibrant and tangy herbal tea that not only pleases the taste buds but also offers numerous health benefits. One of its standout qualities is its ability to help lower cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that regularly consuming hibiscus tea can lead to a reduction in LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, while increasing HDL, or "good" cholesterol. This can play a crucial role in maintaining heart health and preventing cardiovascular diseases.

The key behind hibiscus tea's cholesterol-lowering effect lies in its rich concentration of antioxidants called anthocyanins. These compounds have been found to inhibit the production of LDL cholesterol and prevent plaque buildup in the arteries. By sipping on a comforting cup of hibiscus tea, you can actively support your cardiovascular system and promote overall well-being.

4. Herbal Tea for a Cough and Cold

Not all coughs are the same so first try to figure out what type of cough you have. If you have a dry, irritating cough, consider trying the Lung Health herbal tea with mullein and elecampane. Mullein has been used for centuries to support lung health, while elecampane is known for its expectorant properties, helping to loosen and expel mucus. Adding a touch of honey to your tea can provide additional relief for a sore throat.

If your cough is accompanied by congestion, the Wellness herbal tea might be more suitable for you. This blend features eucalyptus and peppermint, both known for their decongestant properties. Eucalyptus can help clear the sinuses and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, while peppermint offers a soothing effect on the throat and can help relieve nasal congestion. The combination of these herbs can provide much-needed relief and support during a cold. 

5. Tea for Sleep and Relaxation

If you're not sleeping well or have a difficult time unwinding in the evenings, that is something you want to address right away. Sleep is crucial for overall well-being and can have a significant impact on your health. Apart from a healthy bedtime routine (no screens before bed!), working consistently with herbs like catnip, skullcap, tulsi, and passionflower can help promote a restful sleep. These herbs have sedative and calming properties that can ease anxiety and relax the mind and body.

An obvious choice is the Sleep Well herbal tea because of its blend of passionflower, hops, chamomile, catnip, and skullcap. Hops, traditionally used in brewing beer, acts a natural sedative for improved sleep quality. Skullcap eases tension in the mind and muscles, and tulsi is an adaptogenic herb that can help the body cope with and heal from stress.

Similar to Unwind herbal tea, it's blend of calming herbs can prepare for a restful night's sleep. If you have a stressful meeting or day ahead of you, drinking Unwind tea during the day can also provide the nervous system support you're looking for. Remember, consistency is key when working with herbal remedies, so make it a part of your daily routine for best results.

6. Herbal Tea for Anxiety and Stress Relief

Unwind herbal tea was one of the first blends I really had to spend time perfecting, because I was searching for an herbal solution that would not only calm my mind but also nourish my body. This tea blend combines calming herbs like catnip, tulsi, and skullcap, which work synergistically to promote relaxation and ease anxiety.

Catnip has a soothing effect on the nervous system, while tulsi, also known as holy basil, has adaptogenic properties that help the body better cope with stress. Skullcap is renowned for its ability to calm an overactive mind and promote a sense of peace. Together, these herbs create a gentle and effective tea blend that can be enjoyed throughout the day or in the evening to support mental well-being.

7. Tea for Joint Health

Joint health is crucial for overall well-being, as it directly impacts mobility and quality of life. A fantastic tea for joint health is anything that includes turmeric and ginger - fresh if possible. These two roots are wonderfully anti-inflammatory and can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.

It can be tough to consume fresh ginger and turmeric every day, so when that's not possible enjoy dried as an anti-inflammatory tea. Curcumin, the active compound found in turmeric, has been shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce joint pain and swelling. Ginger is another important ingredient in this blend, known for its warming properties and ability to alleviate pain and stiffness in the joints.

This anti-inflammatory tea blend also incorporates cardamom, an aromatic spice that has been traditionally used to help improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the joints. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to provide comprehensive support for joint health and mobility. Regular consumption of this tea can help alleviate discomfort, improve flexibility, and promote overall joint wellness.

8. Tea for Period Cramps

Your moon cycle begins on the first day of your period. At this stage, hormone levels decrease, causing the uterine lining to shed. The best tea for cramps includes herbs that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. 

Ginger Aid herbal tea combines herbs like combines ginger root and oat tops with herbs like lemongrass, elderberries, and rosehips to create a delicious and effective blend for menstrual discomfort. Ginger root is known for its ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain and oat tops have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to ease discomfort and provide a gentle boost of energy.

When you're feeling uncomfortable during your monthly cycle, it's important to take care of your body. Instead of thinking of period pain as something normal that you have to endure silently, understand that there are ways to support your body through the menstruation phase and beyond.

Raspberry tea is highly regarded in the world of herbal remedies as a uterine tonic--that's why it's a key ingredient in our Nutritive tea blend. Nutritive combines raspberry leaf with nettle, lemon balm, and rose for a highly nourishing drink during your follicular phase. Supporting your body with herbs throughout your cycle is a great way to reduce period pain and balance hormones naturally - alongside a nutritious diet and regular exercise, of course!

What if I don't like tea?

If your a beginner tea drinker, starting with the Nutritive or the Ginger Aid herbal tea blend is recommended. If you don't mind making a decoction or tincturing one of your blends, Women's Health is another great choice as a daily tonic for cycle support and reproductive health.

Looking for a complete tea regime? Our Hormone Balancing Tea Kit includes four of our favorite herbal blends to support you through the various phases of your menstrual cycle. 

9. Tea for Sore Throat

Marshmallow root, with its soothing and mucilaginous properties, is great to take when you have a sore throat. This herb has been traditionally used to coat the throat and provide relief from irritation. The mucilage in marshmallow root forms a protective layer on the mucous membranes of the throat, reducing pain and swelling. It is particularly beneficial if you lose your voice, as it helps to moisten and soothe the vocal cords, allowing them to recover more quickly. For best results, brew marshmallow root as a cold infusion.

Incorporating Herbal Teas into Your Wellness Routine

Herbs are such a powerful tool for growth and healing, but they only work if you actually take them! It's important to discover flavors you love and will enjoy on a regular basis, and variety to keep you interested!

Turn your cup of tea into a moment of mindfulness

While sipping your tea, take a moment to be present. Notice the aroma, the warmth, and the taste. I love using my tea time to ground myself in the present moment and give thanks to the herbs for their abundant healing properties.

An invaluable gift we can give to ourselves is taking the time to pay attention to our bodies, and incorporating herbs into our daily routine for better health. I've found that the more familiar you are with herbs, you'll find that the appropriate herbs will come to mind just when you need them most.

The wide variety of teas we offer reflects our understanding that everyone has different preferences when it comes to flavors and herbs. Whether you find comfort in the gentle floral notes of chamomile, the refreshing taste of peppermint, or the warming kick of ginger—MediTea has a tea blend that will help restore balance and be easy to incorporate into your daily routine.

Want more of these articles? Comment below what herbal tea remedy you'd like to see make the list!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are some herbal tea blends that can help with digestion?

Chamomile tea is good for soothing stomach discomfort and improving digestion. Peppermint flavor teas like Digestive contain herbs to alleviate nausea and stomach pain. Ginger Aid blend, with ingredients like ginger and oat straw, is great for easing an upset stomach and providing nourishing support.

How can herbal teas support liver and kidney health?

Dandelion and burdock root in herbal teas can support the detoxification processes of the liver and kidneys. Our earthy Glow tea blend is an ideal daily tonic for liver and kidney support. Additionally, tincturing the blend can provide an alternative method for consumption.

What herbal teas can help alleviate menstrual cramps?

Ginger Aid tea's antispasmodic and hormone-balancing effects can help alleviate menstrual cramps. Raspberry leaf in our Hormone Balancing Tea Kit, as well as additional herbs like shatavari and dong quai in the Women's Health tea blend, also provide support for women's reproductive wellness.

Which herbal teas are recommended for promoting sleep and relaxation?

Unwind tea with herbs like skullcap, catnip, and tulsi is a perfect bedtime beverage for promoting sleep and relaxation. The Sleep Well blend with herbs like hops, passionflower, and chamomile is also known for enhancing sleep quality and reducing stress levels.

How can herbal teas help with coughs and colds?

Mullein and elecampane in our Lung Health tea blend are expectorants that help clear a cough and soothe the throat. Additionally, our Breathe Deep Facial Steam with complementary herbs can aid in clearing congestion. The Wellness tea blend contains herbs to soothe the respiratory system, such as eucalyptus, mint, and elderberry.

What herbal teas are beneficial for anxiety and stress relief?

Tulsi tea is an adaptogen that can help the body and mind cope with stress. St. John's wort is an effective herb for mood balancing, found in our Mood Boost herbal tea blend along with skullcap. Root herbs like dandelion and burdock in blends like Glow are helpful for anxiety conditions by grounding with the earth's energy.

How do herbal teas contribute to immune support?

Echinacea tea has immune-boosting properties that can prevent and reduce the severity of common colds and flu as part of the Wellness tea blend. Immune Support tea also contains yarrow, a highly effective fever reducer. Other herbs like elderberry, juniper berries, and rosehips in our Lung Health blend enhance immune function. If you'd like to try all three blends and save, check out our Winter Wellness Tea Bundle!

Which herbal teas are recommended for joint health?

Turmeric and ginger tea in our Anti-Inflammation tea blend provides anti-inflammatory benefits for relieving joint pain and stiffness, especially in arthritis. Additionally, incorporating rose hip into a hot or iced tea blend can further contribute to joint support.

What are some herbal teas that can help relieve headaches?

Peppermint tea has analgesic properties that make it a great choice for relieving headaches and migraines. Our Nutritive tea blend with nettle, peppermint, raspberry leaf, lemon balm, and rose is also helpful in providing the body with nutrients to avoid headaches.

How should readers incorporate herbal teas into their wellness routine?

Readers should consider creating a daily self-care practice by incorporating herbal teas through a ritual or exploring different blends. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for severe or persistent health issues as herbal teas may not be sufficient as standalone treatments.

By incorporating herbal teas into a daily self-care routine, readers can reap the benefits of these natural remedies. They can start by exploring different blends and flavors, and finding ones that resonate with their body and taste preferences. Creating a ritual around tea drinking, such as setting aside a specific time for it or practicing mindfulness while sipping, can enhance the overall experience. It's important to remember that while herbal teas can be a valuable addition to wellness routines, they may not be a substitute for professional medical advice.

It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating herbal teas into your routine, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. They can provide guidance on potential interactions and ensure that it aligns with your specific needs. So, while herbal teas can certainly be a soothing and beneficial addition to your wellness journey, it's important to approach them with knowledge and caution.

Additionally, keep in mind that the quality and sourcing of herbal teas can vary widely. Opting for organic or sustainably sourced brands can help ensure you're getting a high-quality product free from harmful pesticides or additives. Lastly, moderation is key. While herbal teas are generally safe for most people, consuming excessive amounts may lead to unwanted side effects. So, enjoy your herbal tea in moderation, savoring the flavors and potential health benefits it may offer.