Sunday, June 9, 2013

Benefits Of All Natural Tea

By Freida McCall


All natural tea has many benefits. Teas have been used for centuries as a social beverage and as medicine. Steeping leaves and roots in water yields a liquid rich in the properties of the plant, which can be stimulating, relaxing, or medicinal. Growing and marketing teas is a billion-dollar industry.

All-natural is a label that reassures many consumers. Although this term is not regulated in the same way as the organic designation, it does indicate that the producer has not added synthetic substances to the product. An example would be bottled green or black teas with artificial sweeteners or artificial flavors added during production. Such teas would not carry an all-natural label.

The label refers to the product as is; it does not extend to the cultivation or handling and shipping of the raw materials. Growers may use chemical fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or natural versions of these farming aids. It is helpful to know something about the company that markets the product, and many food providers will answer consumer questions by phone or email. An official 'organic' certification ensures that only natural fertilizers and pest control methods are used.

A particular species of plant produces leaves used in green and black teas. Black is simple a designation for the leaves after fermentation, which deepens the color and flavor of the brew and increases the amount of caffeine. All plants can be steeped in hot water to yield a liquid that can be used as a drink, a medicine, a soak, or a poultice. For instance, parsley leaves make a diuretic drink, while mint leaves have been traditionally used for refreshment and a digestive aid. Tansy tea should not be drunk but can be used as a spray to deter ants.

Teas are used to banish sleepiness in the morning. Black tea is the most usual wake-me-up. An afternoon cuppa of the same beverage can help workers stay alert. Green tea (the same plant matter in a non-fermented state) has been the subject of much research for its health benefits. Black and green tea are high in antioxidants, powerful substances which are believed to fight the effects of age, environmental pollution, and toxins in air, water, and food.

Drinking teas, either traditional or herbal, count as part of the recommended daily fluid intake. Chronic dehydration is a major problem for many, and drinking a beverage that has nutritional value is a plus. In addition, teas have special properties. Black tea is a great wake-me-up, chamomile helps people relax and experience restful sleep, fenugreek is good for increasing milk production for breastfeeding mothers, and eucalyptus can be used to soothe coughs, purify laundry, and cure skin diseases.

There are political connotations to world trade, as well. Practices such as factory farming and child labor concern many consumers. They look for 'fair trade' designations, as well as organic certification and chemical-free packaging. Helping to support small farmers, keep the environment clean, and get a toxin-free product are all things that people can do with the power of their pocketbook.

All natural tea has benefits for the entire world population. Look for this label when purchasing black, green, or herbal teas to get a high-quality product free from environmental toxins and additives.




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