Hibiscus To Chamomile: Different Flavours Of Tea And Their Benefits

Tea, the aromatic elixir that has been cherished for centuries, holds within its leaves a myriad of health benefits. 

Different Flavours Of Tea And Their Benefits (Representational Image)

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In India, tea time is considered to be a treasured interlude which serves as a canvas for diverse tastes weaving moments of relaxation and joy. In the enchanting cup of tea, there are numerous flavours through which one can discover a myriad of sensory experiences. Tea, the aromatic elixir that has been cherished for centuries, holds within its leaves a myriad of health benefits. 

Different Flavours Of Tea And Their Health Benefits:

Tea is not just a beverage; it is an emotion, a comfort zone that has built numerous connections and bridged gaps for centuries. Apart from the tradition ginger and 'elaichi', a cup of tea can be made with other interesting flavours as well.

 

Talking about the traditional ginger and cardamom flavours, Shammi Agarwal, Director of Pansari Group said, "Many people prefer enhancing their tea with ingredients like ginger or cardamom. The invigorating properties of ginger are known for alleviating colds and supporting respiratory health and cardamom is highly known for its cooling properties. While many choose to infuse their tea with these aromatic spices, there exists a legion of connoisseurs who appreciate the unadulterated essence of the tea leaves. From the robust Assam Tea to the fragrant Kashmiri Kahwa, the sophisticated Darjeeling tea to the exquisite Kangra tea, each variety of tea leaves showcases the diverse flavours that make our tea culture truly exceptional. 

 

Dietician Umang Malhotra talked about the different floral flavours of tea along with their health benefits:

 

1. Hibiscus Tea:

• Bursting with vibrant colour and tangy flavour.
• Rich in antioxidants that may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Contains vitamin C, promoting a healthy immune system.

2. Butterfly Blue Flower Tea:

 

Delicate and visually stunning, it transforms from blue to purple with just few drops of lemon juice.

• Packed with anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that may support brain health and reduce inflammation.
• Offers a unique sensory experience with its colour-changing properties.

3. Spearmint Tea:

• Refreshing and invigorating, with a hint of sweetness.
• Known for its digestive benefits, aiding in soothing stomach discomfort and promoting digestion.
• Contains menthol, offering a cooling sensation that can help alleviate headaches.

4. Garcinia Cambogia Tea:

• Derived from the tropical fruit Garcinia cambogia, known for its weight management properties.
• Contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which may help suppress appetite and inhibit fat production.
• Can be a part of a balanced diet and exercise routine for those looking to support weight loss goals.

5. Lavender Tea:

• Calming and aromatic, with a subtle floral taste.
• Promotes relaxation and may help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality.
• Contains compounds like linalool, known for their stress-relieving properties.

6. Rooibos Tea:

• Originating from South Africa, this caffeine-free tea boasts a naturally sweet and nutty flavour.
• Rich in antioxidants like aspalathin, which may support heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Suitable for those seeking a caffeine-free alternative with potential health benefits.

7. Peppermint Tea:

• Refreshing and invigorating, with a cooling sensation.
• Known for its digestive benefits, helping to relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion.
• Contains menthol, which can also provide relief from nasal congestion and headaches.

8. Chamomile Tea:

• Mild and soothing, with a delicate floral aroma.
• Promotes relaxation and may help reduce insomnia and improve sleep quality.
• Contains apigenin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

9. Desi Indian Tea:

• A staple in Indian households, known for its rich flavour and comforting warmth.
• Contains antioxidants like catechins and flavonoids, which may support heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Often enjoyed with milk and spices like cardamom and ginger, adding additional health benefits and flavour.

In addition, Madhuri Ganadinni, who is the Director, and Co-Founder of The Tea Planet talked about Taro milk tea, Thai milk tea and their benefits:

"Taro milk tea emerges as a delightful composition, an enchanting blend of the starchy taro root's sweet and nutty notes. Served over ice and adorned with chewy tapioca pearls, this concoction transcends the ordinary, offering not just a beverage but a sensory experience. Rich in dietary fibre, carbohydrates, and a plethora of essential vitamins, taro milk tea becomes a harmonious supplement which addresses nutritional gaps in modern diets."

 

"On the other hand, Thai milk tea, crafted from robustly brewed black tea tantalises the taste buds with a symphony of spices like star anise and cardamom. Sweetened with a luscious blend of sugar and sweetened condensed milk, it takes the palate on a journey to the vibrant streets of Thailand."