Therapeutic herbal teas

Therapeutic herbal teas, commonly referred to as tisanes, have a long history and are very different from what we call a tea made from the leaves of Camellia sinensis . Indeed, herbal teas contain fresh or dried flowers, leaves, bark, fruits, seeds of medicinal herbs that are infused in boiling or cold water. Herbal tea is one of the ancient processes of preparing medicinal plants for therapeutic use. The benefits of herbal teas are either supported by extensive clinical trial evidence or based on a solid track record after centuries of successful therapeutic use in herbal medicine or naturopathy. Herbal teas can be used to effectively manage the symptoms of the common cold, as a gentle cleansing agent, or for many other health conditions. The disadvantage is that the active ingredients in the herbal material must be water-soluble.

Therapeutic herbal teas can be part of an effective therapy to relieve the symptoms of bronchitis and upper respiratory catarrh. A very effective herbal tea is a blend of Eucalyptus globules (leaf), Malva sylvestre (flower), and Thymus vulgaris (leaf). Malva is one of the oldest medicinal plants in the world and was used in herbal teas (infusions) in China over 5,000 years ago. It was used by Greek and Roman physicians to treat internal and external disorders. It retained its reputation as a "cure-all" treatment throughout the Middle Ages, and like all mallows, it was well known for its soothing properties. It is commonly used for irritation of the oral mucosa and pharynx, dry coughs, sore throats, bronchitis, and as an astringent for gastroenteritis.

Thyme has also been used medicinally for thousands of years due to its antimicrobial, antitussive, and antispasmodic properties. One of its ingredients, thymol, is well-known and scientifically proven to be an antiseptic. Eucalyptus has traditionally been used as a decongestant and expectorant to treat upper respiratory tract infections or inflammation, such as those caused by the common cold, nasal congestion, bronchial diseases, etc. The medicinal ingredients of this plant also have antibacterial properties.

Some herbal teas are blends of herbs designed to eliminate waste from the entire body, while others are single agents that act on a specific elimination pathway. Herbal teas are a safe approach to cleansing due to the relatively low doses given to the body. Using a more aggressive solution (dose) can be very unpleasant and uncomfortable for the patient.

Scientific confirmation that herbs can purify the body is not always easy to find. In the case of Senna Alexandrina, its laxative effects have been well established. The liver and gastrointestinal protective benefits of Glycyrrhiza glabra have been demonstrated in clinical trials. The liver-protective benefits and effects of Silybum Marianum in cases of liver disease have been demonstrated in numerous clinical trials. The scientific evidence supporting the use of these three herbs is strong, but in other cases the beneficial effect is based on centuries of traditional use.

Guy Chamberland, M.Sc., Ph.D., Master Herbalist is a health product consultant, professor of phytotherapy and performs research on alternative therapies.