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The relationship between humans and plants goes back as far as human history itself. Humans have always
relied upon the plant world as a source of food and medicine, sustenance and well being. Archeologists
believe that plants and herbs steeped in hot water have been used for medicinal purposes by mankind
since prehistoric times, long before written history evolved. Historical texts uncovered in Egypt and China
describe early uses of therapeutic herbal infusions by the ancient civilizations there. Greeks and Romans
such as Plato and Pliny were pioneers in the study and cultivation of herbs. They created healing brews
and tinctures using herbs as valuable medicinal tools.
Traditional healers, village doctors, and herbalists have routinely ventured into the wilderness throughout
the ages to find plants that can ease the illnesses of mankind, or to create wonderful drinks for the sheer
pleasure of their flavours. What these healers found was a botanical treasure trove that gives us delicious
infusions and restorative medicinal brews. Eventually herbal teas have become a part of every culture
and civilization known to man, where many other uses have also been found for them; as a natural
flavouring for foods and soups, dye for colouring fabrics and yarn, beauty tonic, as well as aromatic
and healing baths.
Of course, herbal teas are most well known around the world as a refreshing beverage that is equally delicious
hot or cold. Consumed in Europe long before black tea was even introduced, some of the earliest known herbal
teas such as Peppermint and Chamomile remain firm favourites to this day. In our increasingly health conscious
times, its not surprising that herbal teas are fast gaining on the popularity of regular teas in rural and
urban areas around the world.
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Medicinal uses of herbal teas are so extensive that they have been used to help treat virtually
every illness or disease known to mankind. Every part of the plant (root, bark, stem, leaf,
flower, and seed) may be infused in water to extract flavours, aromas and distinctive properties.
Some herbal teas are utilized for boosting general health and wellness and these may be consumed
at any time. Others focus on relaxation, building immunity or resistance to illness, treating
specific ailments, increasing energy and vitality, cleansing and detoxifying, strengthening organs,
insomnia, circulation, improving digestion, adding nutrients and minerals, stomachaches,
headaches, allergies, and an infinite number of other uses. Herbal teas are truly an important,
affordable and readily available medicinal alternative. The fact that they also taste wonderful
makes them even more desirable. After all, when was the last time you actually enjoyed taking
your medicine?
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