The chill of winter brings with it the urge to laze around in the sun, and for a cup of hot beverage to keep you company. Tea, coffee, or hot chocolate are the usual options, but what if you are trying to limit your caffeine intake? Or just want a change of palate? With many possible health benefits, floral tea might be the answer. Here are some flower teas you can try brewing this cold season.

 

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1. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea, as the name suggests, makes use of dried chamomile flowers instead of tea leaves. Commonly suggested as a home remedy that helps you relax and fall asleep faster, drinking chamomile tea may also offer relief from menstrual pain, according to a three month study published in the Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility. Chamomile is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties due to the antioxidants present in it. Although considered generally safe, people with allergies (especially to plants in the daisy family), pregnant women, and young children should exercise caution while consuming chamomile tea. Simply steep some chamomile tea in hot water for a few minutes, then strain and have a cup before bed. Add honey if you want sweetness.

 

2. Hibiscus Tea

This herbal tea is fruity and tart in taste, and packed with powerful antioxidants. A review published in the Journal of Hypertension suggested that hibiscus tea may help in lowering blood pressure. However, it is prudent to be careful with its consumption, as it may negatively interact with some blood pressure lowering medication. Brew some fresh hibiscus flower petals in water. Add honey or lemon for taste, and serve it hot or iced.

 

3. Butterfly Pea Flower Tea

This blue or purple concoction made from dried butterfly pea flowers is not only pleasing to the eyes, it may also have great benefits. Containing antioxidants such as kaempferol, butterfly pea flower tea can help promote skin and hair health, and may also help stabilise blood sugar levels.

 

4. Chrysanthemum Tea

Chrysanthemum flowers have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for ages for their many medicinal properties, and are lauded for their anti-inflammatory qualities and adequate Vitamin C content. However, one should be aware about the potential allergic reaction to the flowers. Chrysanthemum tea, like most other floral teas, is made by steeping dried Chrysanthemum flowers in hot water.

 

5. Rose Tea

Roses have many uses, from aesthetic to medicinal, and its tea can offer many positives for your health. This caffeine-free flower tea is chock-full of polyphenols, which have antioxidant properties. Used in traditional medicine, it is said to have relaxing effects, and may help with period pain. Rose tea is made from petals of the rose flower, and is different from rosehip tea, which is made from the fruit of the rose plant. To enjoy a cup of rose tea, brew some fresh or dried rose petals in water. You can also combine rose petals with regular tea leaves to make milk tea.

 

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