We all know that green tea and black tea are full of antioxidants, but other teas are often overlooked for their health benefits and medicinal value. Here are four of my favorite herbal teas, and one tea that’s all spice!

Sleep well with Chamomile

Chamomile tea has been used medicinally since ancient Egypt and has gained a reputation throughout the centuries for helping to ease cramps, lower fevers, speed healing time from colds, and of course, to help people relax and sleep better. Some studies even show chamomile protecting against cancer cell growth.

Get a beauty boost with Rooibos

Rooibos tea is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, but its claim to fame is its power to help the skin fight signs of aging and common skin issues, like eczema, wrinkles and acne.

Focus with Lemon Balm

The problem with caffeinated beverages is that alertness comes with a cost: increased anxiety. With lemon balm, studies have shown that a 600 mg dose boosts your mood, increases the feeling of calm, and helps you stay alert. In fact, some studies indicate that lemon balm might help calm and improve brain function in Alzheimer’s patients.

Ease your digestion with Dandelion Tea

Some diets include drinking pitchers full of dandelion tea to help you lose weight. You will lose weight, or at least water weight. It’s a laxative! Dandelion tea’s health benefits also include decreasing inflammation, calming upset stomachs, easing gas pains, and aiding digestion in general.

Support whole-body health with Masala Chai

Masala chai is as close to a magic tonic as you can get – and it’s delicious! Real masala chai includes some of the best medicinal spices out there, combined with antioxidant-rich black tea and milk. Just be sure that the masala chai you buy gets its flavor from real ingredients and not artificial flavors and added sugar. Spices include:

• Cardamom – cleanses kidneys, supports urinary tract health, and improves digestion.
• Cinnamon – Lowers bad cholesterol, regulates blood sugar, anti-fungal.
• Cloves – antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, and antiseptic. They also improve the metabolism.
• Ginger – prevents and manages stomach ulcers, anti-inflammatory, stimulates blood circulation, and protects against cold and flu.
• Black pepper – a powerful antioxidant and antibacterial (especially helpful against respiratory conditions).