What are adaptogens?
These are non-toxic plants that help the body deal with stressors, whether physical, chemical, or biological. These herbs and roots have been used for centuries in Chinese and Ayurvedic healing traditions, but they're having a comeback today. They regulate anti-aging and anti-stress hormones. Flavoring green tea is a brilliant excuse to consume some of these adaptogens.
Changing your mindset will change habits!
It’s not close to the desi black chai we are so used to. But it’s the universal healthiest beverage! It took me many years to get used to it, I don't blame you if you are still not used to the taste. I thank my lovely friend, who was vegan at the time and always had green tea handy. Unlike black teas, green tea is less processed, that's why it is so rich in nutrients and antioxidants!
Top 10 reasons to get you hooked on green tea and adaptogens:
Calorie-free so helps with controlling weight
Sugar-free so does not affect blood sugars
Fat-free beverage
Cancer-fighting properties
Fat burning role/ boosts metabolism
Helps with rheumatoid arthritis
Anti-inflammatory
Does not have as much caffeine as coffee, so won’t make you jittery
Protects the brain from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's in old age (research proves)
Helps prevents heart diseases and diabetes, helps you live longer
Green tea particularly has 8 times more concentrations of catechins than black tea. It is due to catechins, which are a group of polyphenols, also found in red wine, apricots, berries, cocoa, strawberries, blackberries, cherries, raspberries, and dark chocolate.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, green tea is rich in polyphenols and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a good source of epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG), a type of polyphenol with a potent antioxidant effect.
Here are five variations of spiced green teas you really wanna try:
1. Ashwagandha and lemon-infused green tea:
The benefits of ashwagandha are numerous. It can reduce anxiety, stress/cortisol level, help fight depression, boost immunity and brain function. This zero-calorie tea satiates and replenishes the body and soul. Adding a few drops of lemon juice to this variant of tea could also help with a healthy digestive system and clears the skin as well. Start by only a few pinches of Ashwagandha powder to any hot green-tea to get used to the new flavor!
2. Cardamon-infused (elaichi) green tea:
Cardamom is another anti-oxidant spice, relieves bloating and has anti-inflammatory properties, lowers blood pressure, along with being full of flavor. Cardamom is a cardio-adaptogen helping against physical stress and digestive problems. It's one of the seeds which adds tons of flavors to Indian desserts and could easily be used as a sugar substitute.
3. Fennel seed green tea:
The benefits of the fennel seeds are tremendous. More than a mouth freshener, it has a positive effect on the digestive system. These seeds are concentrated sources of minerals like potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, selenium, and magnesium. From regulating blood pressure to water retention, fennel seeds pack a bevy of nutrients that makes it a must-have in your kitchen. It has a definite licorice-like taste. Also, this happens to be my absolute favorite!
4. Tulsi/holy basil-infused green tea:
Infusing your green tea with the aromatic Elixir of Life, Tulsi (holy basil) is the easiest way to consume tulsi. Tulsi belongs to the same family as the Italian basil plant and is the queen of herbs, used in many ayurvedic preparations for ages. The benefits range from regulating blood sugars to helping in digestion, relieving respiratory ailments, and preventing allergies.
5. Ginger green-tea:
Ginger root plant is closely related to turmeric and contains gingerol, which is a substance with powerful medicinal properties. Ginger is a vibrant vitality tonic. There are numerous ways to add this to your body and non-caloric teas may be the best one! It helps with nausea, reduces inflammation, aids in digestion, and relieves symptoms of arthritis. Brew some grated ginger with water for a few minutes to reap the benefits.
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The bottom line, brewing your green teas with some adaptogens is a double dose of immunity and stress relief for the body, with no additional calories. I would love to hear your comments on how you infuse your green teas!