Herbal teas. Review on Earl Grey Tea

Tea being one of the most popular drinks around the world has been consumed for over 50,000 years. Many consider that tea and coffee are a major cause of several harmful diseases, such as cancer and heart attacks. However, one cannot ignore other ingredients involved in the preparation of these drinks. Consumption of milk and sugar accompanied with tea and coffee makes people more vulnerable to these diseases. You could partially eliminate your tea and coffee drinking by drinking herbal tea. Herbal teas are tasty, healthy, caffeine free, and inexpensive. From an upset stomach to menstrual cramps to a good night's sleep, there's an herbal cure for almost anything that ails you. Technically, herbal tea is not really a tea since it contains no true leaves. It comes from the flowers, berries, seeds, leaves, bark, and roots of many different plants. Depending on the type of herbal tea, you will use one of the following methods to brew herbal tea --infusions or decoction.

Most teas made from leaves, petals, and flowers are prepared by infusion. The decoction method is used mainly for teas made from seeds, roots, and barks whose active ingredients are more difficult to release.

Many herbal teas are not known for their terrific flavors, but don't let that stop you from benefiting from their numerous healing qualities. To improve the flavor, you may sweeten your tea by adding a teaspoon of honey, maple syrup, or apple juice. But don't add milk or sugar to an herbal tea. While the taste will improve, the medicinal effects will be drastically reduced.

While most herbs are not likely to be harmful, be aware that “natural” is not the synonym for “safe”. Like synthetic drugs, herbal preparations may be toxic, cause allergic reactions, or affect your response to other medications. Common sense, care, and forethought are needed when using herbs and remember-excess of anything is not good.