Drinks

Super Tea!

Michael Filimowicz, PhD
Low Carb Vegan Lab
Published in
3 min readAug 7, 2024

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Every morning, I brew a tea that brings together the health benefits of eight different teas: rooibos, green tea, hibiscus, peppermint, lemon balm, chamomile, ginger, and ashwagandha. This unique blend, steeped in a small pot, offers a harmonious mix of flavors and a potent array of health benefits, making it a perfect drink to consume slowly throughout the day. The best part is that this tea provides all these benefits without the risk of liver toxicity often associated with concentrated supplement capsules.

Rooibos tea is known for its rich antioxidant content, particularly aspalathin and nothofagin. These compounds help protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting overall cardiovascular health. Green tea, renowned for its high levels of catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), contributes to improved brain function, fat loss, and a lower risk of certain cancers. Hibiscus tea, with its vibrant color and tart flavor, is rich in anthocyanins, which have been shown to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.

Peppermint tea, included for its refreshing taste, is also beneficial for digestive health. It helps relax the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and indigestion. Lemon balm, a calming herb, has been found to reduce stress and anxiety, enhance sleep, and improve cognitive function. Chamomile, another calming ingredient, is famous for its ability to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, thanks to its high content of apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in the brain.

Ginger tea adds a spicy kick and offers powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It is particularly effective in reducing nausea, aiding digestion, and fighting infections. Lastly, ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps the body manage stress by lowering cortisol levels and has been shown to boost brain function, reduce blood sugar and cortisol levels, and help fight symptoms of anxiety and depression.

By combining these eight tea bags into one pot, I create a powerful beverage that leverages the synergistic effects of these herbs. Drinking this tea slowly throughout the day ensures a steady intake of their beneficial compounds without overwhelming the liver. While the same compounds are available in pill or capsule form, these supplements often contain high concentrations that can lead to liver toxicity when taken excessively. The process of tea extraction is typically less efficient, resulting in lower, safer dosages of these compounds.

For health-conscious individuals, this tea blend is a natural and effective way to incorporate a variety of beneficial compounds into their daily routine. Each sip delivers a range of health benefits supported by scientific research, all while minimizing the risk of overconsumption that comes with concentrated supplements. Embracing this holistic approach not only nurtures the body but also provides a soothing ritual to enjoy throughout the day.

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