With alternative and complementary therapies becoming a more acceptable and mainstream route to take in the event of illness, it’s only fitting that we take a look at one of the quickest and easiest ways to administer this type of medicine. Herbal teas have been used around the world for thousands of years to cure many common and some not-so-common ailments. From symptoms of colds and flu to upset stomachs and depression, there is an ingredient to cater to your every need.

The following is a list of various herbs and their healing properties:

Burdock Cleanses the blood Aids liver function Regulates blood sugar Chamomile Soothing to the stomach Calming effect on nerves Alleviates cold symptoms Damiana Helps to ease depression Aids in menstruation Acts as an aphrodisiac Is a diuretic Dandelion Is a diuretic Helps improve liver functioning Is an expectorant Fennel Stimulates the appetite Alleviates stomach cramping Helps soothe a sore throat and coughing Ginger Helps circulation Alleviates nausea Alleviates cold and flu symptoms Green Tea Helps circulation Anti-viral against the flu Eases abdominal cramps Helps lower high blood sugar Helps lower cholesterol Has antibacterial properties Hawthorn Cleanses the blood Stimulates liver function Helps to control blood sugar levels Kava Kava Helps lower cholesterol Maintains healthy blood pressure Helps keep the heart healthy Lemon Balm Lifts the spirits Relieves stomach problems Calms the nerves

Liquorice Relieves coughs and sore throats Helps digestion Menstruation aid Mint Relieves headaches Clears sinuses Treats symptoms of colds and flu Nettle Cleanses blood High in Vitamin A and C Aids in liver and kidney function Raspberry Eases diarrhoea High in various vitamins and minerals Menstruation aid Rosemary Improves circulation Stimulates liver function Eases joint pain and headache pain Sage Helps calm the nerves Aids digestion Relieves lung congestion and cough Skullcap Calms the nerves Soothes anxiety St John's Wart Reduces anxiety Helps with depression Reduces irritability Valerian Relaxant Soothes the nerves Eases stomach cramping Yarrow Relieves hay fever symptoms Relieves congestion Helps digestion and improves appetite May help to lower blood pressure

Many would-be herbal tea drinkers are put off by the fact that they do not know how to make the perfect cup of healthy tea. If you are using dried herb ingredients, 1 teaspoon to one cup of water will be sufficient. Two tablespoons of herbal ingredients to a cup of water would be the correct measure for fresh herbs. There are several ways to make herbal tea. The first is to pour boiling water over herbs placed in a non-metallic container with a lid and allow them to seep for a set amount of time – the amount of time is dependent on the herbs used. Some herbs will become bitter if they are left too long, so best to taste-test your tea until you find a happy medium and always remember to strain the herbs before you drink the tea. The second way to make a herbal tea is to place the herb of your choice into a pan of cold water and bring it to the boil. As soon as the water boils, remove from heat, strain and drink.

Now that you’ve learnt the benefits of drinking herbal teas as opposed to ordinary teas or coffees, perhaps you’ll think twice before sipping on your favourite latté. Nature has provided us with cures to many ills and all at the cost of walking to your herb garden, I think we should grab this cup of opportunity with both hands and drink up!