Did you know that we technically have two International Tea Days?
The International Tea Day celebrated on May 21st is to commemorate the signing of the First International Tea Agreement in 2005. It stems from tea-producing countries and promotes tea production, consumption and cultural aspects.
The one celebrated on December 15th is recognised by the United Nations and seeks to acknowledge the cultural and economic significance of tea. It is also celebrated to raise awareness about the value of tea and promote sustainable tea production and fair-trade practices.
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History And Significance Of World Tea Day
In 2005, trade unions, small tea growers and civil society organisations in Asia and Africa launched the International Tea Day campaign. It was launched to address several issues faced by workers and for fair pricing for small-time tea producers.
Subsequently, the International Tea Conference in New Delhi released an International Declaration on the rights of workers and small growers to regulate the issues that came with tea cultivation. Through this declaration, they hoped to manage uneven competition, safety regulation, wages, rights of women and land ownership.
Though December 15th does not have an official sanction as a holiday, it is celebrated as a day to remember the tea workers of India and raise awareness about their situation. Every year, more than 150 representatives from organisations gather on this day to discuss problems faced in their country regarding worker rights and tea cultivation.
How Does Tea Impact The Overall Health And Well-being?
As Indians, most of us are big tea drinkers. But did you know that herbal tea is easily one of the healthiest drinks in the world? Depending on the type of tea you’re drinking, you have the opportunity to enjoy some welcome changes to your body and health.
Some herbal tea benefits are:
- Better digestion
- Detoxification
- Weight loss
- Rich in antioxidants
- Reduces inflammation
- Refreshes your mind
10 Herbal Teas To Sip In For Good Health
1. Chamomile Tea
Soothing, fragrant and delicious! If you want tea for relaxation, chamomile is your best bet!
Chamomile tea is great for its calming effects and is often used to help people sleep better. Studies also show that it is believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Chamomile tea is also often recommended for women who suffer from PMS, as it eases the symptoms and pain.
2. Peppermint Tea
With antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties, peppermint tea is a winner right off the bat!
Not only will it warm you up on a cold winter day, but also equip your body to fight off any illness that may come with it. Peppermint is also a great tea for anxiety.
3. Ginger Tea
We all enjoy adrak-waali chai to our fullest, but did you know ginger tea without milk is a great boost to your health?
It helps with all kinds of nausea and is packed with antioxidants. Some studies even suggest that ginger may help reduce blood sugar levels, and menstrual pain and relieve indigestion.
4. Hibiscus Tea
Apart from looking aesthetically delicious, hibiscus tea is good for your health.
Hibiscus tea has been shown to reduce bad cholesterol and help with blood pressure. However, if you are taking diuretics please speak to your doctor as it may interfere with your medication.
5. Green Tea
Always a classic, green tea has been known to have high antioxidants and potential cancer-preventing properties. It’s also a great herbal tea for weight loss, improves cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of neurological diseases.
6. Black Tea
Amongst the others, black tea has the highest level of caffeine and serves as the basis for other flavoured teas. However, it can also be consumed as is, without milk or sugar.
Studies have shown that black tea has the potential to protect the lungs from cigarette smoke damage and reduce the risk of strokes.
7. Oolong Tea
A traditional Chinese tea, Oolong combines dark and light green teas to give us a nutrient-dense cup of goodness. Oolong tea contains several vitamins, minerals and helpful antioxidants.
Studies have shown that Oolong tea can help control blood sugar, improve heart health, contribute to reducing weight, improve brain function and may help improve bone health.
8. Lemon Tea
An easy, delicious addition to breakfast, Lemon tea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps in boosting your immunity, enhancing metabolism and maintaining healthy blood glucose levels.
If you’re looking for herbal tea for weight loss, lemon tea is a good option!
9. Echinacea Tea
Made from the flowers and leaves of the Echinacea plant, Echinacea tea is a popular drink meant to fight off colds.
Some studies have also shown that the tea may help boost immunity, and reduce the severity of colds, if not prevent them entirely.
10. Sage Tea
Made by steeping fresh sage in hot water, this tea has a host of benefits that we’re sure you didn’t know about!
Studies have shown that tea helps in lowering cholesterol levels and improving cognitive functions and memory. A great tea to add to your diet if you want to be more alert during the day!
How To Brew The Perfect Tea?
We’re sure you all know how to brew your perfect cuppa. But here are a few tips to make it even better –
- Get the water temperature right! Different teas require different temperatures for the best flavour, so make sure you check before steeping the tea.
- Check the steeping time. Just like the water, most teas have differing times for how long you should steep them. Over-steeping or under-steeping can ruin the tea, so be careful!
- Avoid plastic or metal cups. Glass or porcelain is the best way to serve tea, and doesn’t leave an aftertaste like the other two materials.
- Think about your additives. Will milk taste good with hibiscus tea? While we all have our preferences, only some ingredients taste good together. Honey and lemon are one such classic combination that will never taste bad. While making additions to your tea, remember to look up what suits the tea best.
Whether it’s organic green tea for weight loss or chamomile tea for a headache, tea has got your back. Celebrate International Tea Day with a nice warm cuppa of your favourite!
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