For The Positive Mind by Joan Healy. ©The Positive Mind.

What type of tea do you like? Which teas are good for which health issues? And do you know the best time of day to drink each one? For those of you fond of a cuppa, here is a list of teas and their remedies.

1. Green Tea

The story goes that this drink was invented when some leaves fell into a cup of hot water belonging to a praying monk by accident. He found his mood and wellbeing were so enhanced that this discovery should be celebrated. This tea is full of antioxidants and caffeine which means it is good to take to boost energy and has some medical properties too. It is best to take in the morning so that you can awaken your metabolism.

2. Black Tea

Strong in flavour and deeply comforting, this is a favourite tea of the Irish. This tea is highly oxidizing and kills bacteria in our mouths which cause cavities. Black tea is also revered for reducing cortisol levels in the body, meaning that it helps to reduce feelings of stress.

3. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is best taken before going to bed as part of our winding down time. This tea is made from the beautiful chamomile flower and has a wonderfully pleasing aroma. Chamomile tea has very relaxing effects similar to lavender. For this reason it can be used to help alleviate insomnia.

4. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a good option to take when we have stomach problems. Motion sickness and morning sickness can also be treated with this tea. Its healing properties have been known for thousands of years, making this a well-known and well-revered medicinal tea.

5. Peppermint Tea

And finally, peppermint tea is also very effective for stomach pains. The sweet smelling essential oils of peppermint tea make this also a very pleasing tea to drink. Peppermint activates digestion in the stomach in a very gentle way and for that reason can be used to reduce stomach pains. It is ideal to take at any time of the day, and some people take it before going to bed to help to sleep better.

So for most health ailments of the body and mind, there is a natural remedy. Teas can be a great soothing or energising tonic depending on which kind we choose. It is definitely worthwhile using some of the ancient wisdom about the fruits of the earth to improve our health and well-being.