Loose Herbal Tea by Benefit

1-2 tsp of powder in 1 cup boiling water, steep for 15 mins, drink with honey or agave. Good as part of a tea blend.

De-Stress

Astragalus root is considered an adaptogen – it helps to build and restore overall health to the body. It is especially used for cases of adrenal fatigue brought about by stress. 

Get Well

Astragalus has a long and enduring history as a potent immune boosting herb and disease fighter. It is an immunostimulant (an agent that stimulates the immune system) that it is known to increase the count of white blood cells and stimulate the production of antibodies.

Long Life

Astragalus has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine for longevity, to invigorate qi (vital energy) and to strengthen the body.

Men

Astragalus is extremely supportive of male hormones, by balancing glucose levels it can optimise testosterone and growth hormone levels. 

1- 2 teaspoons of root per 1 cup of boiling water, infuse for 10-15 minutes.

Menopause

Having been extensively studied, many results show that Black Cohosh does indeed alleviate symptoms of the menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety and mood swings.

Women

Black Cohosh Root Tea can be useful in managing erratic periods and/or easing cramps and uterine tension. It can also stimulate menstrual bleeding and improve uterine tone. Additionally it can have an impact on the hormonal balance of the body, making it useful to combat mood swings and stress brought about by PMS or the menopause.

1 - 2 teaspoons of root in water. Set in pan over heat for 15 minutes to make a decoction.

Up to half a teaspoon of powder in 1 cup boiling water, steep for 15 mins, drink with honey or agave. Good as part of a tea blend.

Childbearing Years

Blessed Thistle has the ability to act a galactagogue (to increase milk supply). In one particular study it was concluded that the most effective of the herbal galactagogues were Fenugreek and Blessed Thistle taken together. It not only stimulates the production of breast milk, it improves the quality too.

Women

It is also a well known herb as a remedy for other female problems, helping to alleviate PMS symptoms such as painful menstruation and PMS related headaches. 

1- 2 teaspoon of cut herb or powder per 1 cup of boiling water, infuse for 10-15 minutes.

Detox

Burdock Root Tea is incredibly cleansing and detoxifying. It supports the lymphatic system - stimulating lymphatic drainage and detoxification. It is also powerfully diuretic, by increasing the rate of urination, Burdock can help to remove waste from the blood and body.

Digestive Health

Burdock Root contains inulin, a soluble and prebiotic fibre that helps improve digestion. Acting as food for healthy gut bacteria, inulin helps regulate inflammation and remove toxins from the body.

Skin and Beauty

 As a natural detoxifier, Burdock Root can help to clear the body of harmful toxins that can damage the skin.

To make Burdock Root Tea use 1-2 teaspoons per cup of boiling water and steep for 3-10 minutes.

Digestive Health

Cat's Claw is extremely helpful in detoxification of the intestinal tract, whilst replenishing the friendly bacteria in the intestines. It is also used by herbalists to treat a wide range of other digestive disorders including; IBS, IBD, colitis, gastritis and peptic ulcers.

Get Well

Cat's Claw is known as an "immunomodulator" - a herb with the ability to either up-regulate or down-regulate the immune system depending on what is needed. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can bring relief from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. 

Children

The antiviral and immune boosting qualities of Cat's Claw might be of use when children come down with a cough or cold. It has also been known to help with problems of the bowels and colon.

Peace and Wellbeing

Cats Claw has many varying phytochemicals which contribute to it's multifaceted uses. Used as a tonic, Cats Claw has the ability to rebalance the body, bringing it into a natural state of wellbeing. 

Blues

Used by herbalists for centuries to treat anxiety and other nervous disorders, Catnip works particularly well against tension headaches and can induce a sense of relaxation, triggering relief from stress and anxiety.

Digestive Health

Catnip is particularly effective in aiding digestive issues, especially constipation, excess flatulence, cramping, and bloating. 

Peace and Wellbeing

The sedative nature of this wonderfully calming herb helps to induce a fitful and restful sleep. Drinking a cup of soothing Catnip tea before bed can be incredibly beneficial if you suffer from insomnia or any other sleep related problems.

1-2 teaspoons of loose herb in one cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Aphrodisiac

Meaning “what gives strength to an Indian”, Catuaba bark is categorised as a stimulant and is renowned in South America as a powerful aphrodisiac. Catuaba contains 3 specific alkaloids believed to support libido, including “yohimbe”, which seems to be the most active compound that produces a stimulatory effect on the libido of both men and women. These alkaloids are thought to enhance sexual function by stimulating the nervous system.

Men

Research shows that Catuaba bark may enhance erectile strength by widening blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to the penis.

Make tea with 1-2 teaspoons of the bark per cup of hot water, steep for 15 - 20 mins. Drink before sexual activity. Can be sweetened with a little honey or Agave syrup.mins. 

De-Stress

Celery Seeds have calming and sedative properties due to the presence of the phytochemical limonene which acts as a mild tranquiliser. Celery Seed Tea can be very beneficial for treating anxiety, nervousness, mental stress and insomnia.

Detox

Celery seeds are rich in the diuretic oils 3-n-Butylpthalide (3nB), which give celery its distinctive smell and taste. These powerful diuretics cleanse the system of excess fluids and stimulate the kidneys to flush out waste from the body.

Digestive Health

Celery Seeds are one of nature's best anti-bloating herbs. Benefits of Celery Seed Tea include promoting healthy bowel regularity and reducing gas and flatulence.

Women

Celery Seeds can be effective against menstrual discomfort, abnormal menstrual flow and irregular menstrual cycles.

To make Celery Seed Tea use 1 – 2 teaspoons of seeds, cover with hot water and leave to steep for 10 minutes.

Get Well

Chaga is rich in beta-glucans – one of the most potent and healing polysaccharides known. It is a powerful immune system activator and can reduce the blood sugar of people who have abnormal blood sugar peaks.

Long Life

The Siberians used Chaga Mushroom to boost physical stamina and attain a long life. In comparison to their close neighbours the Inuits (who did not use Chaga), their average life span was 40 – 50 years in contrast to the people from Siberian tribes who regularly lived to be 90 – 110 years old.

Chaga chunks can be brewed into a tea. Heat in water over a low heat(160°F or 75°C) to extract the phyto-chemicals of this medicinal mushroom. Brew for up to an hour, (will turn a deep brown colour, then drink). The same chunk can be re-used until the water extracted from the chunk is pale in colour.

De-Stress/Relax and Sleep

As a relaxant, Chamomile depresses the central nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting restful sleep while not disrupting normal performance or function. This is due to the active principles of chamomile including flavonoids, glycosides, and essential oils. 

Digestive Health

Chamomile contains a complex collage of phytochemicals that work individually and collectively on all aspects of the digestive system. Often the root of digestive upset, nervousness can also be calmed by this mildly sedative herb.

1-2 teaspoons of loose flowers in one cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Digestion

Chickweed tea is full of saponins that increase the permeability of the mucous membranes which increases the absorption of nutrients, whilst soothing the digestive tract. It functions both as a mild laxative and a diuretic, helping the body to rid itself of toxins through the kidneys and the bowels.

Chickweed also balances the beneficial bacteria in the gut, providing the optimum environment for healthy digestion.

1 - 2 teaspoons of bark in water. Set in pan over heat for 15 minutes to make a decoction.

1-2 tsp of powder in 1 cup boiling water, steep for 15 mins, drink with honey or agave. Good as part of a tea blend.

Aphrodisiac

Damiana has an ancient, erotic reputation, particularly amongst Mexican Indians. A male and female sexual stimulant, this is the Aphrodisiac to use when sexual dysfunction is attached to strong emotions such as anxiety, stress and mild depression.

Men

For men, Damiana is especially indicated for alleviating problems of achieving and maintaining erections.

Blues/Peace and Wellbeing

One of the active constituents of this herb is thymol, and it is this compound that is responsible for Damiana’s life enhancing and stimulating effect on the mind and body.

Damiana Tea is brought to you all the way from South American rainforests. With an amazingly pungent aroma and unique taste, Damiana Tea is a great blending herb to go with other loose leaf teas.

1 - 2 teaspoons of bark in water. Set in pan over heat for 15 minutes to make a decoction.

Detox

The Dandelion herb is especially indicated in detoxification of the liver, restoring hydration along with electrolyte balance. Dandelion root contains a bitter compound, "taraxacerin" that increases the level of bile secreted by the gallbladder, helping the liver to detoxify more efficiently. It is also diuretic, aiding the liver and kidneys to flush away excess water and waste, supporting the body as it eliminates harmful toxins. 

Digestive Health

Dandelion supports the detoxification and cleansing of the digestive tract. Known as a “bitter tonic”, it stimulates digestion and acts as a mild laxative by softening stools, thus aiding in constipation. Dandelion root also supports gut flora as it contains constituents such as inulin that act as a prebiotic – a specialised plant fibre that promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the gut.

1-2 teaspoons of Loose Leaf or Root in one cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Detox

Echinacea is a wonderfully supportive herb to assist the body both during and after a detox. It can stimulate and modulate immune response, reducing sore throats and raised lymph glands (common detox symptoms). It also increases the body's overall ability to dispose of bacteria, infected and damaged cells, toxins and other harmful chemicals.

Get Well

Echinacea has been proven to cut the chances of catching the common cold by up to 58%, and if suffering from a cold it can reduce its duration by 1 - 2 days. 

Leaf: 1-2 teaspoons of Loose Leaf in one cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Cut Root: 1-2 teaspoon of loose root per one cup of water. Set in pan over a heat for 15 - 20 minutes to make a decoction. Serve with honey to taste.

Get Well

Elderberries are particularly rich in flavonoids, especially anthocyanins which are responsible for their deep purple (almost black) colouring. These powerful antioxidants work to keep the immune system strong and resilient. There is much research that points to the effectiveness of these tiny berries against colds and flu, including prevention and shorter duration of the virus. 

Tea Powder - ½ - 2 teaspoons per 1 cup of hot water, per person

Digestive Health

Elecampane root contains a whopping 44% of the pre biotic compound inulin. Prebiotics support and nourish healthy gut flora and are one of the favourite foods of probiotics, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus. Colonies of these beneficial bacteria in the gut help to stave off infections, prevent inflammation and encourage healthy bowels.

In the case of loss of appetite and feelings of lethargy due to poor nutrient absorption, Elecampane enhances nutrient absorption and encourages proper function of the digestive system.

Get Well

Working against allergies, colds, sinusitis and general respiratory discomfort, Eyebright contains naturally astringent tannins that can help to reduce catarrh and mucus discharge.

1-2 teaspoons of leaves per 1 cup of boiling water, steep for 5 - 10 minutes.

Children

It is important to note that it is pure Fennel Tea that is helpful to children’s health, not herbal supplements. Fennel tea is excellent for children with colic and digestive weakness, enhancing digestion and assimilation of food. It helps in reducing colic symptoms by relaxing the gastrointestinal tract and releasing trapped gas.

Detox

Fennel is a wonderfully supportive herb to the liver, it contributes to liver enzyme function and helps detoxify and cleanse through this important organ. Drinking Fennel Tea regularly helps to flush out excess fluids as it works as a diuretic, thereby helping the removal of toxic substances.

Digestive Health

Fennel Seed Tea helps to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive system, which stimulates bile flow and reduces pain associated with digestive problems.

Menopause

Fennel is a powerful herb to assist women undergoing changes due to the menopause. Many studies have found it helps to minimise symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings and night sweats.

Women

Fennel Seed Tea has been used by women in the Mediterranean area for many years to alleviate the symptoms of PMS and menstrual cramps.

1-2 teaspoons of Loose herb in one cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Women

Feverfew has been shown to help reduce pain from menstrual cramps by reducing prostaglandin production. 

According to the National Headache Foundation, nearly three times as many women as men experience migraines. Feverfew may help relieve the nausea and vomiting associated with these debilitating headaches or reduce the need for preventive drugs.

Use 1-2 teaspoons of Feverfew Leaf Tea per cup of boiling water and steep for 3-10 minutes depending on taste. 

Add ½ - ¾ teaspoon of powder per 1 cup of hot water, leave to infuse for 15 minutes. Goes well with a herbal tea blend.

Detox

A staple ingredient in many detox and cleanse protocols, Ginger stimulates digestion, circulation and perspiration. Containing over 25 antioxidant compounds, this zingy spice scavenges free radicals whilst stimulating antioxidant pathways.

Digestive Health

When it comes to digestion Ginger reigns supreme as the go to spice for almost all digestive complaints. Ginger contains many natural enzymes that improve digestion and the absorption of nutrients. 

1-2 tsp of powder in 1 cup boiling water, steep for 15 mins, drink with honey or agave. Good as part of a tea blend.

Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Tea Has several positive effects that all stem from increased blood flow and circulation.

Aphrodisiac

Ginkgo Biloba is seen as an aphrodisiac because of its capacity to boost circulation and increase blood flow to the genitals.

Blues

Ginkgo Biloba is an excellent herb when taken for both the physical and emotional effects of depression and anxiety. Poor blood flow to the brain is linked with depression, anxiety, poor focus and low energy levels, and a condition known as "cerebrovascular insufficiency". Research indicates that Ginkgo Biloba can improve symptoms linked to cerebrovascular insufficiency, supporting healthy circulation to the brain thus reducing feelings of depression and anxiety.

Men

Ginkgo also lowers the stress hormone cortisol  and enhances the production of all-important testosterone, making this an excellent herb to use for performance related anxiety. By lowering sex related inhibitions and easing stress, Ginkgo Biloba can help to create the right mood for love. 

Memory

Ginkgo improves memory and concentration by allowing more blood to flow freely around the brain. 

Women

Ginkgo Biloba has been shown to be of great benefit to PMS in several clinical trials. It not only improves the psychological symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome, it also helps to alleviate some physical issues.

Overall a very pleasant tea - works well with Sencha Green Tea. 1-2 teaspoons of Loose herb in one cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Add ½ - ¾ teaspoon of powder per 1 cup of hot water, leave to infuse for 15 minutes. Goes well with a herbal tea blend.

Memory

Green tea contains caffeine which stimulates the mind improving memory but also a very important amino acid that crosses the protective blood membrane of the brain.

This amino acid, L-theanine, works with caffeine to stimulate the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA which leads to increased levels of dopamine and effectively calms the mind.

Peace and Wellbeing

Additionally, L-theanine has a relaxing (although not sedative) effect, able to bring about a state of "calm attentiveness". It can sharpen focus and concentration whilst reducing stress and enhancing overall wellbeing.

1-2 teaspoons per 1 cup of hot water, steep for 10 - 15 minutes.

Get Well

Having a good amount of vitamin C, Hibiscus Flowers Tea can be used to provide a natural boost to the immune system while also lowering blood pressure. There are also certain chemicals in Hibiscus that have been proven to cleanse the intestine of foreign bacteria making the immune system more effective.

Hibiscus Flowers Tea is a very interesting mix of sweet and astringent flavours.

Use 1-2 teaspoons per cup of boiling water and steep for 3-10 minutes depending on taste.

Horny Goat Weed has been used for centuries as an aid for both men and women to evoke amorous feelings.

Aphrodisiac

Behind its comical name, Horny Goat Weed stands as a time tested aphrodisiac that increases libido and improves erectile function in men. It increases blood circulation, thus improving blood flow to the genital area of women too, this herb is excellent for stimulating female libido and decreasing sexual dysfunction.

Men

Horny Goat Weed can also benefit men in the gym, increasing lean muscle mass, improving muscular “pump” and enhancing levels of stamina and endurance.

Women/Menopause

Several studies have found that the active constituents of Horny Goat Weed balance oestrogen and estradiol levels in women. This can alleviate many uncomfortable symptoms of menopause including low libido and vaginal dryness.

1-2 desertspoons of loose leaf herbs per cup of water. Steep for 15 minutes.
 

Digestive Health

Icelandic Moss is classed as a bitter herb – it stimulates digestive enzymes and enhances the body’s ability to absorb nutrients whilst it is in itself a highly nutritious food.

It has a high mucilage content which exerts a soothing action in the digestive tract and the intestines, helping to alleviate symptoms of gastritis, gastric ulcers and chronic digestive disturbances. It is also useful in treating digestive disorders caused by parasites due to its ability to gently expel intestinal worms and other parasites.

Icelandic Moss tea is made by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1–2 tsp of powdered Iceland Moss. The mixture is covered and steeped for 10–15 minutes. Natural sweetener can be added to the tea.

Peace and Wellbeing

This herbal tea has the power to calm and arouse making it great anytime of the day.

Skin and Beauty

Jasmine flowers have an age old tradition of being associated with beauty. Their fragrance intoxicates and enhances the senses.

Traditionalists might like to mix Jasmin Flowers with Sencha Green Tea or you could mix it with other blends to add aroma and taste. A highly enjoyable cup of tea.

Digestion

Juniper Berries contain bitter compounds that stimulate bile flow and the production of digestive enzymes. This allows the body to breakdown foods more easily and enhances nutrient absorption. Due to their astringent properties they are particularly effective at relieving heartburn and other digestive upsets.

Digestive Health

Mugwort is known as a bitter digestive that can relieve stomach acidity, dyspepsia, travel sickness and acute bowel and stomach pain.

Women

Mugwort is a uterine tonic and an emmenagogue (a substance that stimulates or increases menstrual flow). The uterus depends on healthy circulation to the pelvic region and strong uterine muscles to function properly. A toned uterus that is receiving good blood circulation allows for healthy monthly periods.

Use 1-3 teaspoon of the leaves to 1 cup of boiling water. Infuse for 10-15 minutes then strain.

Get Well

Aside from the huge amount of immune boosting vitamin C, the carotenoids, flavonoids, and polyphenols found in Rose Hips are very powerful antioxidants which keep the body healthy and the immune system strong.

Skin and Beauty

The astringent quality of Rose Hips can maintain skin elasticity, thus preventing wrinkles and keeping the skin looking young and vibrant.

1 - 4 grams per serving, steep for 5 - 10 minutes.

De-Stress

Stress leads to elevated cortisol levels which can cause havoc in the body if not kept in check. Holy Basil has the ability to regulate cortisol levels and balance hormone levels naturally.

Peace and Wellbeing

The complex combination of phytonutrients in Tulsi work synergistically to create a general sense of wellbeing, working to boost energy and enhance focus in order to deal with the stresses and strains of daily life. 

Digestive Health

Wormwood is a bitter herb affecting the bitter sensing tastebuds that send signals to the brain to stimulate the entire digestive system, (salivation, stomach acid production, intestinal tract movement). It also stimulates the release of bile from the liver, the storage of bile in the gallbladder and other secretions from the intestinal glands, which will enhance the body’s ability to digest food.

A common cause of weak digestion is too little stomach acid (not too much) – acid reflux is the result of weak stomach acid that is unable to properly digest food. Hydrochloric acid (HCL) production is stimulated by Wormwood, and it will optimise bowel flora whilst killing off dangerous organisms such as Helicobacter Pylori which can lead to duodenal ulcers if left untreated. It can also help the recovery from long term illness by improving the uptake of nutrients.

Take ½  - 1 teaspoons of the herb per cup of boiling hot water. Do not exceed 1 cup of Wormwood tea per day. 

Digestive Health

Classed as a “bitter herb”, Yarrow is an excellent digestive stimulant that encourages proper bile secretion from the gallbladder, which in turn promotes digestion and can prevent gallstones from forming. It also contains the phytochemical azulene, which has anti-spasmodic properties and relaxes the internal stomach muscles, making it useful cases of digestive cramps.