Green for energy, chamomile for calm, peppermint for bloating—here’s your ultimate cheat sheet to tea and its science-backed wellness benefits.
From helping with stress and digestion to boosting skin and metabolism, tea has legit health perks that have been backed for decades. According to registered American dietitian and nutrition author Joy Bauer, “Tea is one of the easiest and most natural ways to add antioxidants to your day, and different teas come with their own unique set of benefits” (Today Show Health, 2023).
So whether you’re sipping to de-bloat after brunch or looking for a caffeine-free way to stay focused, here’s what each type of tea really does—and why it’s worth keeping a stash in your kitchen.
Green Tea: The Energising Antioxidant
If you want the benefits of coffee without the jitters, green tea is your go-to. It contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm alertness, paired with a mild dose of caffeine. And for all my matcha fans yes, matcha is a form of green tea. It’s made from specially grown and processed green tea.
Some of the benefits include:
- Boosts metabolism and supports fat oxidation
- High in catechins, a antioxidants that help fight cell damage
- May enhance your brain function and protect against aging
When should you drink it: Morning or early afternoon, especially when you need focus without a crash.
Peppermint Tea: The Bloat Buster
This herbal tea is caffeine-free and a staple for soothing our gut. English Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert is a registered nutritionist, she explains peppermint helps to relax the digestive tract, easing cramping and bloating naturally.
Some benefits are:
- Calms indigestion and reduces bloating
- May relieve tension headaches and relax muscles
- Has natural antibacterial properties
When to drink it: After meals or anytime you feel gassy or uncomfortable.
Chamomile Tea: The Calm-Down Queen
Made from dried chamomile flowers, this floral tea is practically a lullaby in a mug. It’s been used for centuries to reduce stress, help with sleep and modern science backs it.
Benefits:
- Helps with sleep and relaxation
- Can ease mild anxiety
- Supports digestive health and may reduce inflammation
When to drink it: At night or whenever you need to wind down. If you think you are having trouble sleep take a look at this article.
Rooibos Tea: The Skin Booster
Rooibos (pronounced roy-boss) is a red herbal tea from South Africa packed with skin-loving antioxidants, including aspalathin and nothofagin.
Benefits:
- Naturally caffeine-free and rich in flavonoids
- May improve skin elasticity and reduce visible signs of aging
- Supports heart health
When to drink it: Afternoon or evening for a skin-friendly, caffeine-free pick-me-up.
Ginger Tea: The Immunity Hero
Fresh, spicy, and slightly sweet, ginger tea is a powerhouse for your immune system and digestion. It’s a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and often recommended by certified American doctor of natural medicine, Dr. Josh Axe.
Benefits:
- Reduces nausea and improves digestion
- Contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds
- Can ease menstrual cramps and sore muscles
When to drink it: In the morning or before/after meals to support digestion.
Jasmine Tea: The Stress-Soother with Skin Perks
Often blended with green tea leaves, jasmine tea combines floral fragrance with the antioxidant power of polyphenols. It’s calming yet uplifting, making it a fave among tea lovers who want a soft energy lift.
Benefits:
- Reduces stress and improves mood through aromatherapy effects
- Contains antioxidants that help prevent cell damage and support healthy skin
- May improve cardiovascular health and metabolic function
When to drink it: Afternoon or early evening when you need a mental reset or skin-loving hydration boost.
