Herbal tea has remained a famous and household beverage for hundreds of years. In addition to being a soothing drink, it is good for digestion, immunity building, relieving stress, and much more.
Whether it's after-meal ginger teas or relaxing chamomile tea before sleep, each of them offers unique advantages.
But did you know that the timing of when you drink herbal tea plays a big part in its effectiveness? Whether it is the first thing you sip in the morning or the last before you doze off every night, it's quite important to know the best time to drink herbal tea.
Which are the herbal teas we can drink in the morning, and which ones at night? Also, can you drink them every day? If the answer is yes, how many times in a day? Let's figure out all these questions and many more in this blog.
Is It Better to Drink Herbal Tea on an Empty Stomach?
A lot of people like to start their day with herbal tea; however, is it a good idea? Which herbal teas can you drink first thing in the morning?
Pros of Drinking Herbal Tea on an Empty Stomach
Herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, and lemon, when consumed as the first thing in the morning, help boost the metabolism and digestion, as well as flush toxins out of the body.
Studies have shown that gingerol and menthol, present in ginger and peppermint, respectively, are compounds that are more efficiently absorbed on an empty stomach. They are potent in improving energy, mood, and even gut health.
Teas that are known to hold detoxification properties and aid in liver function, like dandelion and milk thistle, when consumed before meals, help in improving bile production, digestion, and fat metabolism.
Things to Be Cautious About
Although herbal teas are generally considered safe for consumption at any time of the day, some of them are better skipped empty stomach.
Teas with diuretic and acidic properties, like hibiscus and green tea (though they aren't technically herbal), should be avoided to be consumed on an empty stomach by people who are sensitive to acidity. It may cause nausea or worsen the acidity. Such people can consider light herbal teas like chamomile.
Is It OK to Drink Herbal Tea Every Day?
Herbal teas are generally considered safe and highly beneficial for daily consumption. However, we must take into account their types and dosage, and how the body is responding to them.
Daily Herbal Tea Benefits
Antioxidants, polyphenols, and flavonoids are commonly found in herbal teas, offering long-term health benefits.
A study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing mentioned that chamomile tea is capable of reducing anxiety and improving the quality of sleep.
Peppermint tea is said to calm intestinal muscles, reducing the symptoms of indigestion and bloating.
Ginger tea reduces inflammation and improves immunity due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Herbal teas are considered a healthy alternative to other drinks since they are caffeine-free, hence, not hampering sleep or spiking the stress hormones.
Is There a Limit?
Definitely yes, there's a limit to everything, and herbal teas aren't an exception. Natural herbs also contain active compounds that can have cumulative effects. Mostly, 1-3 cups per day of many of the herbal teas do not harm; however, overconsumption can have side effects. Like,
-
Too much licorice tea might cause blood pressure to rise.
-
An excessive amount of hibiscus may cause blood pressure to drop.
-
If consumed too often, certain detox teas may have a laxative impact.
Always switch among various herbal teas; it not only restricts any possible side effects but also keeps your taste buds happy. If you are pregnant or on medication, do consult a healthcare provider before adding herbal teas to your diet.
How Long to Wait to Drink Tea After a Meal?
Some people enjoy drinking tea after their meals. Well, in that case, you must consider herbal teas. But which ones are suitable as an after-meal drink?
Impact on Digestion
Sometimes, consuming herbal tea too soon after eating slows down digestion by diluting digestive enzymes.
However, when taken after meals, especially in little doses, some herbal teas, such as ginger, fennel, and peppermint, are proven to help with digestion.
According to research published in Molecular Medicine Reports, ginger helps enhance stomach emptying, which lessens discomfort and bloating after meals. By calming the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, fennel helps lessen gas and cramping.
Ideal Timeframe
Herbal tea is best consumed 30 to 45 minutes after a meal for most individuals.
As the body begins to naturally break down meals, the tea can improve digestion without affecting the body's ability to absorb nutrients.
It's better to avoid aggravating your stomach by drinking detox or laxative teas outside of mealtimes.
Can I Drink Herbal Tea After 30 Minutes of a Meal?
Yes, it is safe and healthy to drink herbal tea half an hour after eating, especially if you choose digestive-friendly varieties.
Now that the meal has begun to be processed in your stomach, herbal tea can assist with:
-
Relieving gas or bloating
-
Increasing the production of digestive and liver juices
-
Lowering sluggishness after meals
Teas, including chamomile, peppermint, and fennel, are very good for promoting digestion.
According to studies, drinking warm liquids during this period may also help maintain regular bowel movements and lessen post-meal sensations of heaviness.
Just keep in mind that although 30 minutes is usually safe, it's best to avoid drinking strong or caffeinated teas right before meals since they may disrupt the absorption of iron or cause upset stomachs.
Conclusion
Herbal teas are more than just comforting drinks; they are functional beverages that can help with immune system function, fat metabolism, stress reduction, digestion, and sleep.
However, time is crucial if you want to fully benefit from them.
-
Herbal tea can aid in detoxification and digestion when consumed on an empty stomach, but if you're sensitive, stay away from acidic blends.
-
For the majority of people, drinking herbal teas like chamomile, ginger, and peppermint daily is not only harmless but also advantageous.
-
Drinking tea 30 to 45 minutes after a meal improves digestion without affecting the absorption of nutrients.
The ideal time to consume herbal tea ultimately relies on your objectives, be they immunity, relaxation, digestion, or detox.
Enjoy the process, pay attention to your body, and select the appropriate herbs.
FAQs
1. Can I have herbal tea before bed?
Yes, particularly soothing herbs like lemon balm, chamomile, and lavender. They aid in fostering calm and restful sleep. Do not use ginseng or other stimulating herbs at night.
2. What kind of herbal tea is best for post-meal digestion?
Licorice root, peppermint, ginger, and fennel are great for post-meal digestion. They lessen cramping, bloating, and gas.
3. Can herbal tea cause drug interactions?
Certain herbs, particularly St. John's Wort, licorice, and ginseng, might interact with medicines. Whenever you take prescription medication, make sure to speak with your doctor.
4. Does herbal tea taste better cold or hot?
They both work well. In general, warm herbal tea is easier to digest, but iced herbal tea is cool and hydrating, especially during the summer.
