Your cup of tea is transformed from a simple beverage into a healthy drink by the enticing aroma, spicy flavor, and health advantages of ginger, cinnamon, and anise. The anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties of the spices help to improve overall health and protect the body from disease. Some cultures, including Chinese and Hindu, believe that the aromas of certain spices can reduce anxiety and enhance mental health.
Tea
Black and green teas contain flavonoids that detoxify the body by
neutralizing free radicals responsible for cell damage. Green tea
inhibits the growth of pathogens that cause tooth decay, tooth plaque
and bad breath. Frequent intake of tea rehydrates the body and boosts
the immune system. The moderate amounts of caffeine in tea stimulate the
nervous system and promote blood circulation.
Ginger
Ginger promotes gas elimination in the digestive system as well as helps reduce vomiting and nausea. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and pain in people suffering from arthritis. Ginger has antiviral properties that relieve the common cold and improve the immune system to prevent recurrence of colds. Ginger also reduces cholesterol levels in the body by enhancing conversion of cholesterol to bile acids and impairing absorption of cholesterol.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon possesses anti-fungal properties that fight against various yeast infections, such as those affecting the mouth and vagina; in some instances, cinnamon kills the yeast Candida, a drug resistant fungus. Cinnamon helps people suffering type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin receptors in the body and deactivating enzymes that inactivate these receptors. This helps the patient become more receptive to insulin and regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon reduces internal blood clotting and inflammation by inhibiting the release of arachidonic acid, the acid responsible for blood clotting and inflammation.
Anise
Anise improves digestion and is a remedy for various digestive disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence and gastritis. Anise seeds loosen mucus in the nose, trachea and lungs to relieve congestion and aid in ailments, such as bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia and influenza. Anise also contains anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties that fight against mouth odors and inflammation.