I find it tough to drink plain old water day in and day out, especially when it’s chilly outside. Herbal teas are a great way to warm up and enjoy new flavours, all while making sure you’re hydrated.

Let’s be honest – I’m not a huge fan of prescribing tea as medicine. My treatment plans are research-driven and designed to get results, so teas typically don’t pack enough punch to get us there. Compliance is also really tough: who’s going to drink 3 cups per day of a strong tea EVERY DAY for 4+ weeks to see the desired results? I know I’m not…

However, each herbal tea has its place for supporting the body. For example, if you’re feeling tired you might choose rosemary, or feeling bloated you might choose fennel. Some teas should also be avoided under certain circumstances. So, here’s my quick guide to herbal teas to help you make the best choices in the tea aisle.

1. Licorice Root

• Helps with: adrenal fatigue, boosting energy and the immune system, soothing digestion
• Avoid if: you have high blood pressure

2. Fennel

• Helps with: soothing digestion, bloating and gas, promotes milk supply during breastfeeding
• Avoid if: you have loose bowel movements (in some people)

3. Lemon Balm

• Helps with: anxiety, insomnia, stress, and soothes indigestion
• Avoid if: you’re taking anti-depressants, anti-anxiety, or sleep-aid medications

4. Lavender

• Helps with: insomnia, anxiety, depression, stress
• Avoid if: you’re taking anti-depressants, anti-anxiety, or sleep-aid medications

5. Dandelion

• Helps with: liver and kidney detoxification, swelling and water retention
• Avoid if: you are on medications, diuretics, or have reduced kidney function

6. Peppermint

• Helps with: IBS, bloating, indigestion, menstrual cramps, and boosts energy
• Avoid if: you suffer from heartburn

7. Ginger

• Helps with: nausea, boosts the immune system, helpful if you have phlegm and congestion during cold and flu
• Avoid if: you suffer from heartburn or are on blood thinning medications

8. Rosemary

• Helps with: mental focus, energy, and coughs and during cold and flu
• Avoid if: you are on blood thinning medication or have history of seizures

9. Smooth-move / Senna

• Helps with: occasional constipation (*Note: I’m not a fan, I never recommend this tea, even for occasional constipation!)
• Avoid if: you frequently experience constipation. This is a habit-forming laxative, meaning it causes laxative dependancy over time. DO NOT USE MORE THAN 1-2x MONTHLY.

10. Nettle

• Helps with: fatigue, nutrient deficiency (it’s like a multivitamin tea), seasonal allergies, lowering blood sugar levels
• Avoid if: you’re on blood thinning medications or diabetes medications

*A note about pregnancy and breastfeeding: speak to your Naturopathic Doctor before using teas in pregnancy, as there are specifics about frequency of use, trimester, and personal health history that must be taken into consideration.

This is not an exhaustive list, but I’m hopeful it gives you a glimpse into the benefits of herbal teas. Please speak to your ND before regularly drinking large amounts of any herbal tea, and tell your ND if you’re on any medications so they can make sure your teas are safe for you.

Book an appointment to discuss more about herbal teas and tea-combinations that can best benefit your health needs.