Keep it Together

Health Benefits

• Blackberry Leaves

  + Relieves acute diarrhoea

  + Soothes sore throats, scratchy coughs and gum inflammation

  + Polyphenols helps prevent stomach ulcers 

  + High in antioxidants

  Picked, dried in the sun and infused with boiling water, blackberry leaves are the essence of most berry-flavored teas. Studies suggest that the leaves contain a healthy dose of flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant activity.

• Cinnamon

  + Relieves acute diarrhoea
  
  + Third highest antioxidant-rich spice (& herb)
  
  + Boosts immune system
  
  + Cinnamaldehyde, catechins & cyanids prevent oxidative stress
  
  + Helps prevent cancer
  
  + Aids weight loss
  
  + Improves digestion
  
  + Relieves gas, constipation, bloating & cramping
  
  + Relieves and helps prevent IBS
  
  + Improves cognitive speed, boost concentration and focus
  
  + Stimulates the growth of new neural pathways
  
  + Alzheimer’s and other degenerative neural conditions
  
  + Reduces inflammation and pain
  
  + Analgesic and anticoagulant effects helping with mensutal conditions
  
  + Has antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic effects
  
  + Helps prevent coronary heart disease
  
  + Reduces blood sugar levels in diabetics
  
  + Reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels

• Fennel

  + The amino acid histidine and iron helps prevent anaemia

  + Aids digestion

  + Prevents bad breath

  + Aids constipation and bloating

  + Helps eliminate LDL cholesterol 

  + High concentrations of flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenols, inhibit the growth of tumours 

  + Regulates blood pressure

  + Improves brain function

  + Treats diarrhoea

  + High concentration of amino acids, polyphenols xanthines, caffeoyl derivatives & saponins

  + Phytoestrogens found in Anethole helps treat Renal Colic

  + Antispasmodic qualities helps to soothe muscles

• Lemon Verbena

  + Boosts the immune system
  
  + High in antioxidants which protects against muscle damage
  
  + Improves joint health
  
  + Anti-inflammatory 
  
  + Helps to eliminate phlegm and mucous
  
  + Aids weight loss
  
  + Reduces joint pain
  
  + Helps reduce fever
  
  + Regulates appetite

• Licorice Root

  The many health benefits of licorice root tea are due to the presence of unique organic compounds, including glycosides, flavonoids, anethole, coumarins, sterols and a number of other antioxidants, as well as certain minerals and vitamins.

  Licorice root tea is recommended for people suffering from low blood pressure, arthritis, gout, indigestion, colds, coughs, respiratory infections, painful menstruation, seizures, high toxicity levels, dry skin, premature aging, hair loss, dandruff, and various other conditions.

  Reduces stress
  Over time, stress can leave the adrenal gland exhausted by constantly producing adrenaline and cortisol. Licorice supplements can give the adrenal gland some relief. Licorice root extract can stimulate the adrenal gland, which promotes a healthy level of cortisol in the body.

  Control blood sugar
  Licorice tea extract can help the body to lower the blood sugar. The flavonoid content of licorice such as glabridin and amorfrutin have blood-glucose-lowering effects and therefore is a good choice for diabetics.

  Skin Care
  In terms of skin health, licorice root tea can help to keep your skin moisturized when used as a topical application (cold tea), but can also improve the antioxidant levels in your body, helping to minimize signs of aging. Furthermore, licorice tea can help soothe inflammatory conditions like psoriasis or eczema, and even act as a natural sunscreen, helping to block UV rays that damage the skin. Studies have also shown that licorice can decrease the skin melanin production which cause pigmentation. Licorice has been used in beauty treatment for long time. Consuming licorice tea regularly not only can brighten the skin but also protect the skin from the effect of UV light and acts as antioxidant to keep the skin young.

  Low Blood Pressure
  If you suffer from hypotension, also known as low blood pressure, the stimulating nature of licorice root tea can elevate your blood pressure to normal levels, providing a boost to your energy levels and preventing dizziness and fatigue. However, if you suffer from high blood pressure, this tea can be a dangerous choice for your overall health.

  Anti-spasmodic Effects
  By soothing the symptoms of seizure disorders and spasms of smooth muscle tissue in the body, licorice root tea can help to relieve heart palpitations, smooth digestive properties, and ensure proper muscle function throughout the body.

  Menstrual Cramps
  Licorice root tea has been traditionally used to treat the symptoms of dysmenorrhea, also known as menstrual cramps, and also improve other symptoms of PMS, such as mood swings, and hormonal fluctuations. However, when consumed in excess, this tea can have the opposite effects.

  Hair Care
  Known for its moisturizing qualities, this versatile tea can prevent dryness of the scalp and prevent dandruff, while also delivering rich antioxidants and minerals to the hair, strengthening the follicles and improving the appearance of your hair. This tea has also been praised for its ability to stop hair loss, both when consumed as a tea and when topically applied.

  Cleanses your respiratory system
  Licorice is recommended to treat respiratory problems. Taking licorice as an oral supplement can help the body produce healthy mucus. Increasing phlegm production may seem counterintuitive to a healthy bronchial system. However, the opposite is true. The production of clean, healthy phlegm keeps the respiratory system functioning without old, sticky mucus clogging it.

  Immune System
  Upper respiratory infections can be persistent and difficult to get over, but licorice root tea can quickly cut through the phlegm and mucus, soothing inflammation in the throat, and giving the immune system a boost to eliminate the underlying bacteria or pathogen. The antioxidants found in this tea are also integral to the body’s defenses against illness.

  Diuretic Effect
  By stimulating urination, licorice root tea can help detoxify the body. This has impressive effects on the liver. Urination eliminates excess salts, fats, toxins, and water from the body, relieving strain on the kidneys and bladder. However, since this tea does have diuretic and laxative effects, drinking too much can cause dehydration and other negative side effects.

  Anxiety and Depression
  Commonly paired with St. John’s Wort, this herbal tea is often recommended for people suffering from anxiety and depression. The soothing flavor and stimulating activity of this tea can improve mood and rebalance stress hormone levels in the body.

  Stomach Issues
  Licorice root is used to soothe gastrointestinal problems. In cases of food poisoning, stomach ulcers, and heartburn, licorice root extract can speed the repair of stomach lining and restore balance. This is due to the anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties of glycyrrhizic acid.

  Cure hepatitis
  The anti-viral and anti-inflammation properties of licorice can help to maintain healthy liver. As we know that liver is an organ in human body which important in body detoxification, the pthyochemical component in licorice both protects liver and heal liver if damage occur. Damage liver will be easily infected by Hepatitis virus. Consuming licorice tea can help to cure the inflammation of liver which caused by hepatitis virus.

  Relieve allergies
  Licorice tea contain components called glycirrizin and liquiritigenin which have anti-allergic effect. These components can relieve IgE or Immunoglobulin E (protein which promotes allergic sympton ). This make licorice is one of home remedy to treat allergic symptom such as dermatitis and asthma.

  
  SIDE EFFECTS
  

  There are a few side effects when drinking licorice root tea in excess. True licorice root tea contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which can cause everything from headaches and fatigue to high blood pressure and heart attacks. These severe symptoms usually occur when a large amount of glycyrrhizin is consumed. Additionally, there are other risks that can affect certain groups of people depending on their medical history and present health conditions.

  NOTE: Due to the powerful and potent nature of the root and the risk of toxicity, no more than 3 cups of this tea should be consumed each day for no longer than two weeks.

  Pregnancy
  Licorice root should never be consumed when pregnant as the potentially toxic substances in licorice root can increase the risk of miscarriage by affecting hormone levels and stimulating menstruation. Furthermore, breastfeeding mothers should avoid the use of this tea and children should also not be given this herbal remedy.

  Drug Interactions
  A number of drug interactions have been reported by those using licorice root tea, including complications with antidepressants and blood pressure medications. In the former, your symptoms may worsen when combined with this herbal tea, while those using blood pressure medications may experience a build-up of potassium in the body, which can be dangerous. Women taking birth control or other oral contraceptives often experience high blood pressure when drinking this tea.

  Water Retention
  One of the most common side effects of drinking a large amount of this tea is water retention, as this is an astringent substance. This can manifest as bloating or edema in the legs, torso or ankles, and can cause inflammation, pain, and discomfort.

  Hormonal Issues
  The hormones of both men and women can be affected by licorice root tea. In women, this can mean a higher risk of breast cancer and other estrogen-related conditions. In men, it can result in a drop in testosterone levels, infertility, and erectile dysfunction.

• Peppermint

  + Aids digestion
  
  + Reduces flatulence and digestive issues
  
  + Aids symptoms of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and gallstones
  
  + Eases nausea and vomiting - especially motion sickness
  
  + Brings down severity of herpes outbreaks
  
  + Controls muscle aches and chronic pains
  
  + Helps clear congestion and mild coughs
  
  + Help reduce stress
  
  + Helps mild asthma attacks

  Peppermint is a fragrant herb that makes for a soothing drink. Peppermint helps you digest foods better and also reduces flatulence and digestive issues. Peppermint is prescribed to people with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and gallstones in capsules. A cup of peppermint tea will ease nausea and vomiting, especially if you suffer motion sickness. If you have heartburn, don’t drink peppermint tea as this might aggravate your condition. Peppermint tea brings down the severity of herpes outbreaks. The natural mint flavour of the herb helps to freshen your breath. Other health benefits of this tea are control of muscle aches and chronic pain, clearing of congestion and mild coughs, mild asthma and reduction of stress.

• Rooibos

  + Caffeine free 

  + Contains polyphenol antioxidants including aspalathin and nothofagin 

  + Anit-inflammatory 

  + Safeguards against heart disease 

  + Has anti-mutagenic properties, to help prevent against some cancers 

  + Defends cell DNA 

  + High mineral content: magnesium, calcium & manganese, zinc and iron 

  + Improves circulation 

  + Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol 

  + High levels of flavonoids, including quercetin, to help relieve numerous abdominal ailments such as cramps, diarrhoea and indigestion 

  + Helps to aid absorption of iron as there are fewer tannins 

  + Phenylpyretic acid relieves skin condition, which can help to improve acne, psoriasis and eczema 

  + Fights free radicals and can protect against Parkinsons/Alzheimers disease 

  + Encourages a restful sleep due to high mineral content

  Caffeine free 
  The rooibos plant grows naturally without any caffeine. This is important, as it means it does not need to undergo a chemical process to remove the caffeine. It also means that anyone can drink it, including those who do not want to drink caffeine such as children & pregnant women. The other key benefit of no caffeine is that it can be consumed in unrestricted amounts. Some South African’s will consume 5-6 cups per day.

  Contains powerful antioxidants 
  Rooibos tea contains a wide array of antioxidants, which help to protect the body in a number of ways. Two polyphenol antioxidants called aspalathin and nothofagin are found in high concentrations in rooibos tea. These antioxidants protect the body by fighting free radicals. These are unstable cells, which attack healthy cells in order to stabilise themselves. The polyphenols also have anti-inflammatory properties and can safeguard against heart disease.

  Prevents against some cancers 
  Some studies have demonstrated a link between consumption of rooibos tea and a reduction of cancer-causing chemicals. This is because of the high level of dominant antioxidants, some of which have anti-mutagenic (anti-cancer) properties. This means that they defend cells & DNA against damage and inhibit them from developing into cancer.

  High mineral content 
  One of the key health benefits of rooibos tea is that it contains several minerals that are vital to health. These include magnesium (essential for the nervous system), calcium & manganese (essential for strong teeth and bones), zinc (important for metabolism) and iron (critical for helping blood & muscles distribute oxygen).

  Improves circulation 
  One of the many potent antioxidants in rooibos tea is called Chysoeriol. It can improve circulation by preventing the activity of the enzyme that triggers cardiovascular disease. Drinking rooibos tea also has been known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

  Relieves stomach complaints 
  As rooibos tea contains high levels of flavonoids, especially one called quercetin. It has the ability to relieve numerous abdominal ailments such as cramps, diarrhoea and indigestion. Flavonoids are known help to reduce spasm, inflammation and allergies. It has also been widely stated that the health benefits of drinking rooibos tea extend to alleviating colic in babies, as it is totally caffeine free, it is perfectly safe for them to drink rooibos tea.

  Aids absorption of iron 
  Unlike most black teas, which prevent the body from absorbing iron effectively because of the tannins they contain, rooibos tea benefits and supports the body in absorbing iron. It contains less than half the tannins of black tea.

  Can relieve skin conditions 
  A recent found that rooibos tea can help you to look more beautiful! Rooibos tea contains phenylpyretic acid, which can help to improve acne, psoriasis and eczema. You can apply a freshly brewed and cooled tea bag to the affected areas and it will soothe and heal any inflammation.

  Can protect against Parkinsons/Alzheimers disease 
  Drinking rooibos tea regularly can protect against a process known as lipid peridoxation. This occurs when free radicals damage brain cells and nerve tissue. If this is prolonged, it can lead eventually to progressive and deteriorating brain disease, such as Alzheimer’s.

  Encourages restful sleep 
  Rooibos is unique in that it can be consumed as often as you wish and at any time of day. Many people choose to drink it before bedtime as it can help with insomnia. Due to its high mineral content and lack of caffeine, it’s known to help people to feel calm and relaxed.