The Best Teas for Summertime Wellness

Whew! Hi tea lovers! Rachel here. And yall….it’s hot!

While ATC is taking a brief summer hiatus, I wanted to give you some useful tips on how to stay well and hydrated while the temperatures down here in south La. and across the country break records. Make sure you’re staying up on your sunscreen and your self-care.

During the hot summer months, there are many teas that can be extra refreshing and beneficial for your overall wellness. In addition to plenty of water, here are some of the best teas to drink to keep up with your summer wellness:

Tea popsicles, like the calendula, peppermint, and rose tea pops we enjoyed during the Taste & Flow event, are a great and refreshing way to enjoy the herbal benefits of delicious tea during the super hot summer months.

1. Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also contains theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness, making it a great option for stress relief during your summer vacation planning and work time.

2. Peppermint Tea: Peppermint tea has a cooling effect and can help soothe an upset stomach or indigestion, which may occur more frequently in the summertime - there’s lots of cookouts and barbecues happening, so it’s best to make sure you can help your digestive system do its thing. It is also naturally caffeine-free and Mint, Meet Mint lovers know just how awesome peppermint tea is when it’s served iced for a refreshing summer drink.

3. Hibiscus Tea: Hibiscus tea is known for its vibrant color and tangy flavor. It's high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can aid in boosting your immune system and supporting heart health.

4. Ginger Tea: Ginger tea can aid digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be particularly helpful after you indulge on your getaways. You can also reach towards ginger for its warming effects once the sun has set and you’re looking to ease into a restful night.

5. Fruit-infused Iced Teas: We love a blackberry addition to our Respect the Elders in my household, and I wanna let you know that you can create your own refreshing iced teas by infusing various fruits like berries, citrus, or watermelon with herbal teas or green tea. These gorgeous and highly customizable concoctions provide added vitamins and flavors without the need for added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

These are a great start but please know that the possibilities for your summertime teas are endless. While tea can contribute to your overall fluid intake, I can’t stress enough how essential it is to drink plenty of water throughout the day as well. Avoid adding excessive sugar or artificial sweeteners to your teas to keep them healthy and hydrating, and remember that local honey can help you fight those summer sneezes. And as with any dietary changes, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider or licensed practitioner, especially if you have any specific health conditions or concerns.

Take care and enjoy the rest of your summer, tea lover. See ya soon. ATC will be back in biz and fully engaged for all of your tea needs in just a few short weeks.

Until next time,

Rachel

Rachel B