8 Health Benefits of Drinking Hot Tea

Wholesome reasons to steep a hot and steamy cup right now.

Believed to have originated in China in the 2^nd century BC, hot tea was originally used for medicinal purposes. News of its flavorful and restorative properties later spread to vast regions, including Portugal, Greece, India, and the United Kingdom. Today, people around the world embrace the sweet whistle of a hot tea kettle not only because it tastes good, but also because it’s good for you.

In honor of National Hot Tea Month, we’ve compiled these eight health benefits of drinking hot tea:

1. Enhances your eye health
2. Reduces your risk of stroke
3. Sharpens your memory
4. Prevents tooth decay
5. Improves your digestion
6. Reduces your blood pressure
7. Strengthens your immune system
8. Curbs your stress and anxiety

Discover more about how you can start reaping the benefits from this time-honored hot drink below.

1. Enhances your eye health
   Thanks to the antioxidants found in green and white teas, you can improve your eye health and help prevent serious eye-related complications, like cataracts and glaucoma, just by sipping a hot cup.
2. Reduces your risk of stroke
   Research shows that drinking at least three cups of green or black tea each day can lead to a 21% reduction in your risk of stroke. The findings concluded that catechins, a chemical compound found in green and black teas, have stroke-reducing effects on the vascular system.
3. Sharpens your memory
   Drinking hot tea regularly can keep your brain in tip-top shape. Studies suggest that the minimally-processed green tea leaves from the Camellia sinensis bush helps boost cognitive functioning, including the working memory.
4. Prevents tooth decay
   You may be surprised to learn that a cup of black tea each day can reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. Research shows that enzyme-rich compounds can prevent plaque and bacteria from forming on teeth and gums.
5. Improves your digestion
   Herbal teas, like chamomile, mint, rosemary, and lavender, can improve your digestive health. The infusions and mixtures of herbs can be an effective treatment for gas, indigestion, constipation, and other digestive symptoms.
6. Reduces your blood pressure
   If you are searching for a natural way to reduce your blood pressure, look to the plant-based antioxidants, called flavonoids, found in green or oolong tea. Research shows that drinking just a half-cup of antioxidant-rich green or oolong tea each day can reduce high blood pressure risk by almost 50%.
7. Strengthens your immune system
   A stronger immune system can protect you from the cold, flu, and other illnesses. One way to give it a boost is to take in the powerful antioxidant blend found in green or chamomile tea as part of your everyday routine.
8. Curbs stress and anxiety
   Drinking hot tea has a naturally calming effect. Enjoying a cup requires us to sit, slow down, and relax – all of which are natural weapons against stress and anxiety. The key to feeling stress- and anxiety-free is to go for caffeine-free herbal teas, such as peppermint and passion flower.

These health benefits of drinking hot tea can help you feel your best – from the inside out. Try taking time out each day to enjoy this naturally delicious and beneficial hot beverage. For more ways to live a healthy lifestyle, check out our health and wellness blog articles here.