Herbal health drinks are big business these days. There are many drinks that claim to have added vitamins and minerals in them or herb and planet extracts. The reason for this explosion in the number of drinks is that people are alive to the potential health benefits of herbs such as rose-hips, and even flowers like dandelion.
Tea originally came from the Far East, brought to the rest of the world by the Chinese. At it's simplest it is freshly boiled water infused with herbal leaves. From this humble beginning has grown a massive industry that uses anything from peppermint to chamomile to make teas.
The best way to make the drink is to pour hot water over the teabag while it's in the cup. To extract the herbs from the teabag, leave it in for around five minutes, but not much longer, as it effects the flavor. An alternative is to use loose herbs and infusion teapot, one with a filter that will separate the bits of leaves from the water when you pour.
If you are using fresh herbs then as a rule use two teaspoons per cup. If using dried herbs then use around one teaspoon per cup. A lot of people have a problem with the lack of sweetness in the drinks and will add honey. They do not add sugar because it does not taste as nice. Additionally, honey is a natural sugar and some people prefer to ingest natural sugars.
A herbal tonic is something that is usually made with red wine and fresh herbs. It takes a while to produce the beverage but it is worth it. You'll need a jar and some fresh herbs. Wash and dry the herbs and place them in the jar. Add the red wine, filling until the herbs are covered, and then stir using a wooden spoon. Seal the jar and wait for 4 weeks before drinking a little each day.
For those with neither the time nor the inclination to make their own drink then perhaps buying a ready-made one is better. It is important to look for beverages that have no additives, such as coloring or flavoring. Also, try and buy drinks that are produced using only natural ingredients. By doing your research you'll pick a much healthier drink.
Herbal teas have been known to help relieve a wide range of conditions. Things like coughs and colds are said to be relieved by simmering some ginger root in water for around 10 minutes and adding lemon juice and honey. Take out the ginger and serve. Stomach complaints have been treated by giving the complainant some tea infused with peppermint. It's said to help relieve bloated and upset stomachs.
One of the benefits of herbal health drinks is the lack of additives and things like caffeine. They can be a very versatile drink too, with many different medicinal uses. It can help calm the mind too. Some people like nothing better than to sit back with a cup of chamomile and spearmint tea and relax.