Who doesnt love teas? I mean whats more comforting than curling up on the couch with their cup of tea, especially when theyre struck down with a cold or the flu? Now while you may not be battling with the sniffle at the current moment, theres no reason as to why you cant make yourself a cup of tea. Aside from the fact that its delicious and comforting, a cup of tea can also give your immune system a boost, and, in case you havent noticed, thats precisely what we all need.

If youre battling with a cold or the flu, teas can help to alleviate symptoms such as a sore throat, upset stomach, and even congestion. Additionally, because theyre so rich in antioxidants and powerful herbs, teas can boost and support your immune system, helping to protect you to fight against colds, the flu, and possibly, the coronavirus. Additionally, some teas can help to ease you to sleep and this too can help maintain your immune system.

If you want to give your immune system an extra boost, or maybe you just want to enjoy a soothing cup, then here are our top 11 suggestions.

One of the worlds most famous teas, green tea is exactly what your immune system needs.

Green tea is mostly popular due to its rich catechin content catechin are powerful antioxidants that help to protect the body from oxidative stress, and this then reduces the risk of infections and diseases.

In fact, research found that the catechins in green tea helped to effectively protect the body against the flu.

Additionally, green tea also contains the antioxidant quercetin, and this compound has been found to effectively fight off viruses that cause the common cold (1)

Commonly drank every morning in most households, black tea also contains properties that can help the immune system. In fact, one study found in the PNAS journal revealed that black tea encouraged the release of the immune systems T cells. When it comes to defending the body against infections, such as cancer cells, T cells play a vital role.

Whats more, black tea also contains potassium and manganese two minerals that can help boost the immune system.

A common beverage when youve got a bit of a throat tickle and for good reason.

Firstly, ginger is incredibly rich in antioxidants. So much so that research has found that it can kill off the viruses that cause the common cold (2).

Often overlooked in favor of black tea or green tea, you may be surprised to know that white tea is higher in antioxidants than both black or green tea. This is because its leaves are less processed, which then means it provides a much more powerful boost for your immune system.

Its tea leaves are rich in antioxidants, as well as antibacterial properties, both of which help to strengthen the immune system and fight off infection.

Elderberry is a dark purple berry from Europe and, being a berry, it is incredibly rich in antioxidants. Moreover, elderberries also contain high levels of vitamin C and zinc both of which can boost the immune system and protect the body against colds and flu.

While there has yet to be a study on the effectiveness of the tea, one study published in the journal Nutrients found that supplementing with elderberry can help to not only alleviate the symptoms of a cold but also reduce the duration of the cold itself.

A purple flower native to North America, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, Echinacea tea could be your best defense during the flu season.

According to a study found in the Infectious Disease journal from the Lancet, if taken as a supplement, Echinacea can reduce your risk of catching a cold by up to 58%, and it can reduce the duration of your cold by more than a day.

With its sweet flavor, licorice root tea isnt just sweet to the taste, but its also incredibly soothing for a sore throat.

As a result of its antiviral and antibacterial properties, licorice root tea is a great and sweet way to protect your immune system and fight off colds and flu (3).

A relaxing and soothing drink, chamomile tea is exactly what you need to get some rest.

With the state of the world, it can be easy for you to drown in anxiety and this can affect your sleep patterns. Unfortunately, high anxiety levels coupled with poor sleep patterns can weaken your immune system, and thats the last thing that anybody should be experiencing.

So, if youre experiencing some anxiety-ridden insomnia, then enjoying a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime can help to induce a tranquilizing reaction. Additionally, chamomile also has anti-inflammatory properties and this is always a bonus.

Unbeknownst to most, hibiscus is actually loaded with vitamin C. So much so that you can meet your daily recommended vitamin C intake with just three cups.

As a result of its rich vitamin C content, drinking hibiscus tea is a great way to boost the immune system as well as fight off the development of colds and flu.

One of South Africas most famous exports, rooibos (pronounced ROY-boss) is bursting with anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. Its also rich in vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron.

In regards to your immune system, research published in the journal Natural Product Communications suggested that rooibos tea may help in hindering type A and B flu viruses the ones most commonly associated with yearly epidemics and occasional pandemics.

Occasionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, Moringa is a nutrient powerhouse.

In addition to being super high in antioxidants and possessing anti-inflammatory properties, Moringa also contains 7 times more vitamin C than oranges. All of this helps the tea keep you healthy by warding off infections.

Neem is a very healthy tea drink. Called Indian lilac tea, its a herbal infusion made from the whole or ground dried leaves of the neem tree. Because neem tea tastes bitter on its own, it is better blended with other herbs and ingredients to counter this bitterness. Some neem teas are blended with black or green tea. The exact flavor will depend on the blend but expect a bitter note from the neem leaves.

The good news is, that neem tea is caffeine free.

One of the best ways to build up your immune system, especially if youre sick, is to get more fluids into your system and what better fluid to choose than one of the aforementioned teas? Theyre each rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that can help keep the body healthy. So when you have some time, why dont you kick back, relax, and enjoy the perfect cup?

Here is the original post:
12 Teas To Boost Your Immune System - Longevity LIVE