6 Health Benefits of Hot Tea and History
Amid record-high heat waves and extreme humidity, the topic of hot versus cold drinks continues to resurface here at The Qi.
“Are you team HOT or ICED,” we asked our Instagram community recently in a post of a beautiful rose tea by Seo Hyun Kook (@estherscafe_). People flocked to the comments with completely mixed opinions, citing numerous factors like flavor, outdoor temperature, comfort and digestion, and even aesthetic beauty.
It’s no secret we like our tea hot here at The Qi…like HOT HOT, even on days it reaches 90 degrees.
But don’t fret. We’re not expecting you to forgo all your favorite icey bevs just yet. It’s possible you could be a hot tea person too with a bit of insight into the health benefits of sipping a warm drink.
Benefits of Going Hot
Now that you know the history of hot drinks, let’s talk about why you should consider cutting down on ice, even in the peak of summer.
1. Boost Digestion
Drinking warm water stimulates digestive organs, and increases blood flow to the digestive system, helping break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste more effectively. Those experiencing constipation, bloating, and indigestion should steer clear of ice-cold drinks, especially when eating hot food. Warm drinks also help to preserve the spleen, which plays a crucial role in digestion and energy, according to TCM.
2. Blood Circulation and Kidney Function
Hot drinks can increase blood flow, helping to bring oxygen and nutrients to your brain, improving its overall function. Warm water is also believed to support the kidney’s natural detoxifying functions. TCM says the kidneys store the foundation of Life, an essence known as “Jing.”
3. Natural Detox
Drinking hot tea also helps to support your body’s natural cleansing process and aids in expelling excess cold and humidity. We live in heavily polluted environments that constantly expose us to toxins. It’s important for us to take hold of letting the good in, and the bad out.
4. Cooling Remedy
Each time you come in from being outside all day, resist the urge to grab an ice-cold glass of water. Having a hot drink aids your body in expelling excess humidity, helping you to cool down. In regulating your body temperature through the induction of sweat, you’re actually making it easier to adapt to the heat.
5. Relax Muscles and Prevent Cramping
Drinking hot water increases blood flow to areas experiencing soreness, pain, and cramping. Muscle cramping commonly happens on account of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, therefore, it’s important to always stay hydrated. Overstimulated muscles can become tired, leading to ongoing discomfort. Hot water is especially effective during menstruation, helping to relieve stagnation and to regulate your Qi.
6. Alleviate Stress & Anxiety
Highly regarded in the Western world, drinking warm drinks before bed promotes relaxation, helps stave off anxiety, and signals to the brain that it’s time to rest. For restorative sleep, TCM recommends steeping jujube seeds in hot water or tea at bedtime. Whether it’s through using a hot water bottle or heating pad, soaking feet, or taking a warm bath, heat functions as a form of therapy that extends beyond consumption.
Chrysanthemum Cooldown
A popular tea used in the hot summer months, chrysanthemum is known for its natural cooling properties. It’s used to help combat harsh outdoor climates and even reduce fever by cooling the body’s internal temperature. It also has the ability to help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation. Read more on its benefits here.
This is not to say that you should never have another cold drink again. If the occasional cold drink brings you joy, you should drink it!
What is your favorite way to prepare tea and why?
We would love for you to try out our Organic Royal Chrysanthemum tea! Use the code “welcome10” to get 10% off your first order today! We hope you enjoy!
