The science of wellness tea
For centuries, teas have been cherished for their healing properties. From ancient China’s Tang Dynasty to today’s wellness practices, botanical infusions have remained a key part of holistic health traditions. Now, with a growing body of evidence in modern science shining a light on their benefits, it’s becoming clearer than ever why our ancestors held them in such high regard.
In recent years, we’ve seen a shift in global health trends. Chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke have become leading causes of mortality. The good news? Research shows that lifestyle changes, especially those made through diet, can significantly improve vascular, metabolic, and cognitive health—even later in life.
Teas, packed with antioxidants and essential phytochemicals, can offer a simple yet potent dietary solution to help combat modern health challenges. Governments like the Netherlands have made tea a cornerstone of their national dietary guidelines. Based on compelling evidence, they recommend drinking three cups of green or black tea daily. This is because teas derived from the Camellia sinensis plant—such as green and black tea—contain polyphenolic catechins and theaflavins, compounds known for their positive effects on heart health and oxidative stress.
Herbal teas, unlike their green or black counterparts, have been used across various traditional medical systems, including Chinese and Indian practices. Recognising their value, the World Health Organization (WHO) has embraced herbal medicine as part of its global health strategy. Their goal? To provide populations with accessible, effective, and culturally trusted healthcare options.
Clinical studies have shown, for example, that teas like chamomile and lavender have immediate calming effects—perfect for promoting sleep and relaxation. While longer-term consumption of herbal teas has been linked to significant health improvements, such as reduced blood pressure from hibiscus tea and improved glycemic control in patients who drink chamomile tea. The magic behind these teas lies in the release of volatile oils and other compounds, activated simply by steeping the herbs in hot water.
If you’re interested in learning more about the science of herbal teas, you might enjoy reading these research papers: Herbal Teas and their Health Benefits: A Scoping Review, Review on Herbal Tea as a Functional Food