It’s clear to see that there are two specific camps of people when it comes to tea. First, the individuals who are firm believers in the adage that a cup of tea solves everything. Then, there are the skeptics. Whichever group you feel more inclined towards, it remains an indisputable fact that there are a multitude of health benefits associated with said beverage. It is a notion that is especially prevalent amongst Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners, many of whom believe that Chinese herbal teas comprise medicinal properties to cure a variety of ailments.
How it works is through a curation of roots, flowers and leaves—all of which are meticulously amalgamated to form an elixir. The aforementioned solution is designed to balance and centre the body’s internal energy, which in turn, serves a variety of purposes ranging from improving blood circulation or promoting a restful sleep.
The question, however, remains: what are the different types of Chinese herbal teas available, and which are best suited for your needs? Luckily for you, Vogue Singapore is here to deliver. Below, a comprehensive guide of the most popular Chinese herbal teas found in stores here, alongside an exact breakdown of the ingredients within so you know exactly what you’re drinking.
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Chrysanthemum tea
It’s likely you’ve seen the packet variants that are a mainstay of Chinese New Year festivities. While those are effective to a certain degree, the ones brewed on-site at your local tea house are likely to be free of sugars and preservatives found in the ready-made versions sold at the supermarket. The general consensus is that chrysanthemum tea is the prime pick for reducing ‘heatiness’ and inflammation, serving as a balm for dry, itchy throats while also helping soothe strained eyes.
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Luo Han Guo tea
Also referred to as Monk Fruit tea, this bad boy is prized for its ability to alleviate respiratory discomfort. Think phlegmy coughs, a hoarse throat, and the like. Beyond so, it also comprises zero calories, which makes it an ideal alternative to sugar in cooking and baking for diabetics.
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Twenty Four Flavours tea
Don’t let its bitter taste dissuade you. Composed using over twenty or so ingredients—hence its name—Twenty Four Flavours tea is a delightful fusion of mulberry leaf, bamboo leaf, peppermint and more that is said to relieve bloating as well as constipation. Gut health aside, it is also known to help fight lethargy by regulating the oxidative balance of the body.
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Five Flower tea
Expelling impurities and built-up toxins is made easy with Five Flower tea, which is typically made from five dried flowers: Chrysanthemum, Honeysuckle, Cotton Tree Flower, Pagoda Tree Flower and Frangipani. While the dried flower types might vary according to the brewer, its benefits of detoxification and reducing inflammation remains largely the same.
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Heal All tea
While the term ‘heal-all’ is an exaggeration of what this tea can do, it’s safe to say that Heal All tea does plenty. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties translates to a hastened recovery time of minor cuts and wounds, while also providing liver support as well as digestive aid.
