Category: Ingredient Stories

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Himalayan Butterfly Blue Pea Flower-Your Secret to Peace of Mind

Cup of blue tea with lemon wedge and a slice of lemon. A cup of lemon juice and a basket full of blue pea flowers.

Do you ever feel stressed, and don’t want to deal with anything for a while? Trust me, we’ve all been there. There are many situations in our lives that might make us crave a fresh beverage, such as the Himalayan Butterfly Blue Pea Flower.

Sometimes we just want to go away to a beach or some hills, far away from the noise and commotion. Having a drink in our hand, just enjoying the peace of mind that we crave. But hold up, you didn’t imagine an alcoholic drink, did you? 

Instead of relying on alcohol and chemically made pills to keep you calm, go for a natural, side-effect-free way instead. Take a sip of the Blue Pea Flower tea.

What is Blue Tea?

Commonly known as Blue Tea, the Himalayan Butterfly Blue Pea Flower Tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea. Made from the decoction (or infusion) of petals of the Clitoria Ternatea plant (also known as Aprajita or Asian Pigeonwings). For hundreds of years, the petals of the Blue Pea flower are used to make dyes due to their bright blue colour. It is now famous for use in cocktails and mocktails (such as mood ring cocktails).

What’s So Special About it?

An amazing aspect of this concoction is that it changes colour based on the pH levels of the anti-stress substances added into its concoction. For example, adding lemon juice to the tea will turn it purple.

Served as a refreshment in hotels and spas, this tea is called ‘Nam Dok Anchan’ in Thailand and Vietnam. It can be served both hot and cold and is served alongside fruits or mint.

Backed by Ayurveda, Butterfly Pea Flower tea has been in use as a traditional medicine for ages. Even modern science supports the various health benefits it offers:

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower Helps with Depression

Blue Pea flower, Ajaparita, or Shankhpushpi finds many references in Ayurveda. People have traditionally used it for improving mood and fighting mental issues. The consumption of this beautiful flower has a plethora of pharmacological benefits. One of them is to help with mental illnesses.

Sources have reported that the blue pea flower may have help in coping with depression. Researchers have stated that it has a wide spectrum of neuropharmacological benefits such as nootropic, anti-depressant, and anti-stress properties.

Instead of relying on heavy chemically produced drugs, one should find a natural way to calm their mind and uplift their mood. One such way is to enjoy this beautiful wonder called blue tea.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower May Improve Skin Health

A lot of people face skin issues that keep recurring and are very difficult to get rid of. Numerous creams and gels and other sorts of products contain chemicals that harm your skin rather than taking care of it. Dermatologists have suggested that the Butterfly Blue Pea flower is rich in polyphenols, proanthocyanidin, and flavonoids, which stop the harmful effects of free radicals that damage and degrade skin.

Blue Tea made from the flower of the Clitoria Ternatea plant is very beneficial for skin health. This pretty blue flower has the power to make your skin as beautiful as a butterfly! On a serious note, studies have demonstrated that the butterfly pea flower may have antiglycation and antioxidant properties. 

This antioxidant property protects you from harmful free radicals that cause the collagen in your skin to break- resulting in unflattering skin blemishes like wrinkling, dark spots, fine lines, and loose, saggy skin. This means that this flower has the potential to be a therapeutic solution for age-related skin issues. Including this flower as a part of your skincare regime would be a wise decision.

As a bonus, apart from skin health, the Blue Pea flower also takes care of your hair, due to the presence of anthocyanin – a compound known to increase blood circulation in the head and therefore maintain a healthy scalp. It also helps in strengthening the hair follicles from within.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower May Improve Cognitive Function

Known as the “Shanka Pushpi”, Blue Pea flower comes under the “Medhya” category in Ayurveda. This means that it may enhance neurological health. Our ancestors have passed down this precious knowledge that now helps us in our daily lives. 

Studies demonstrated the neuroprotective properties may significantly improve cognitive health on regular consumption. Other studies also support the idea that the Butterfly Pea Flower could help in improving learning capacity and boosting memory.

These neuropharmacological benefits may also suggest that they can help in the prevention of many neurological ailments. 

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Antiviral

There are many deadly viruses out there such as Ebola and Covid-19. Even though fighting them is not that easy, several other viruses are less deadly (but still harmful) that can be fought against, without any vaccines. Natural means to fight viruses are rare. One such way is to incorporate herbal teas into our lives. Blue Tea is a perfect example.

Blue pea flowers are often used as a colouring agent in many foods. They are also known to change their colour with the addition of different ingredients. Apart from this, one major health benefit of butterfly pea is its antiviral properties. According to a study, the blue pea flower has shown antivirus properties that may help prevent potential attacks from different viruses.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Antipyretic

This traditional medicinal plant bears flowers that might help you with anything! Another amazing health benefit of the blue pea flower is its antipyretic property.

Research shows that just a freshly brewed cup of blue tea can help in reducing fevers drastically. In another study done on albino rats with yeast-induced pyrexia (fever), the methanol extract of Clitoria ternatea was evaluated for its antipyretic potential. 

A single extract of around 300 mg/kg (of body weight) produced a significant reduction in normal body temperature and yeast-provoked elevated temperature in a dose-dependent manner. The effect extended up to 5 hours after administration. This flower does so by expanding the blood vessels under the skin so that the blood flow is increased and your body is cooled down.

The study also suggested that the antipyretic effect of the extract was comparable to that of paracetamol, a standard antipyretic agent.

Blue Pea Flower Contains Very High Amounts of Antioxidants

The extract of Clitoria ternatea L. (the blue pea flower) has undergone a lot of research and has shown a lot of promising health benefits. The most prominent property has to be the antioxidant activity that paves the way for so many benefits.

Studies show that the blue pea flower has been evaluated for antioxidant properties. The reason for most of the benefits is the ample amounts of antioxidants present in this flower – anthocyanin, a potent antioxidant, is the star of the show.

Foods rich in antioxidants are very useful in the prevention of chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress- a condition that is caused by the damage done by free radicals to our cells. This antioxidant is also the main reason behind the skin-nourishing properties of butterfly blue pea. The antioxidants in butterfly pea can rejuvenate the skin by stimulating collagen synthesis and reducing the signs of ageing.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Anti-Inflammatory

Inflammation is a process that our body initiates to protect itself from outside invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. But when the body doesn’t know when to stop, inflammation can have long-term damaging consequences on your body, hence it is essential to include foods that prevent inflammation in your diet. 

Research has suggested that butterfly pea contains polyphenols that showed anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory and immune boosting components such as flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols are the main cause behind their benefits.

Pharmacies could also use these flowers to make medicines. Medicines that protect against chronic inflammation. By suppressing the excessive production of pro-inflammatory mediators, this could be possible. Meaning, it can curb the factors that might cause inflammation.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is also Anti-Diabetic

Apart from genetics, your lifestyle choices heavily impact your risk of developing type-2 diabetes. Being overweight or obese makes your cells more resistant to the effects of insulin on your blood sugar.

Diabetes patients always have a hard time finding a beverage they could enjoy. Well, they won’t if they have a blue tea beside them! One cup of this beautiful blue potion taken between meals can prove very useful in maintaining blood sugar levels.

Recent research has revealed that the blue pea flower is reported to have antidiabetic activity. It helps inhibit the intake of glucose from the diet and lower blood sugar.

Enjoying a great-tasting beverage and taking care of your health is something you would want for sure. Although there are many antidiabetic drugs available in the market that help prevent diabetes, it is always wise to opt for natural alternatives that do not have any side effects.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Anti-Asthmatic

Asthma is a very common disease with more than 10 million cases per year in India. There is no real cure for it, and living with the constant fear of asthma attacks and relying on pumps or inhalers is not something we would want. One of the natural ways of preventing Asthma is to consume foods having anti-asthmatic properties. For example, you guessed it, the Blue Pea flower. 

A lab study evaluated the extract of the Blue Pea plant’s roots. The results demonstrated antiasthmatic activity. This indicates that consumption of blue tea may be beneficial to prevent asthma as well.

It acts as an expectorant and helps in reducing any irritation present in the respiratory organs. For those who have asthma, the extract of these roots may help in suppressing the symptoms.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower as an Analgesic

There are many natural sources of food that provide analgesic properties – Cloves, Ginger, and essential oils of Rosemary, Peppermint, or Eucalyptus. The blue pea flower is also one of them.

In a recent study, researchers induced writhing in some mice by administrating acetic acid in their blood.  Researchers found a significant decrease in the twisting, squirming movements, or contortions of the body after using the extract of Butterfly Blue Pea flower. Indicating that the ethanol extract of the blue pea plant’s root showed analgesic properties. 

We are all tired of trying artificial painkillers filled with chemicals. Try a blue tea made by butterfly pea flower and enjoy a natural and refreshing drink that will soothe your pain and help you relax.

The Takeaway

Whether it is a mocktail or a hot evening drink- the Himalayan Butterfly Blue Pea Flower will make your tea-tasting experience colourful and healthy at the same time. The earthy and woody notes of this refreshing beverage will keep you asking for more. 

Check out the Himalayan Butterfly Blue Pea Flower by Ono Teas – a pure and aesthetically pleasing blend made from the freshest blue pea flowers. Served hot or iced, this blue potion is sure to make you drool! If you liked the Blue Tea, make sure you check out our other teas from the Mental Wellness Category– Sweet Dreams Tea and Cool Green Ocean are definitely worth trying!

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Cool Green Ocean-The Name Says it All

Cup filled with Cool Green Ocean Tea with lemon wedge and straw

Whether it be the Justice League or the Avengers, it is a sight to behold when heroes join forces. We feel the same when combining different ingredients to create our teas. The results are just plain amazing. Take Cool Green Ocean for example. Blue Pea flower, spearmint, peppermint, and stevia leaves come together to create an exotic and minty summer drink with a fantastic ocean green colour.

Tisanes, more commonly known as herbal infusions, are becoming popular these days; possibly due to their great taste, flavour profile, aroma, and health benefits. At Ono Teas, we always want to create something fun and healthy. So our sommeliers, alongside our doctor partners, created a powerful combination. Butterfly blue pea flower, spearmint, peppermint, and stevia leaves. This gave a Cool Green Ocean colour to the tea. The mint leaves leave you with a minty aftertaste especially when you brew it cold or use it to make cocktails or mocktails. The best part is the powerful herbs that combine to bring you a plethora of health benefits. Let us dive deeper into each ingredient, shall we?


Butterfly Blue Pea Flower

Butterfly Blue Pea flower helps with Depression

Blue Pea flower, Ajaparita, or Shankhpushpi finds many references in Ayurveda. It has been traditionally used for improving mood and fighting mental issues. Even western medicine has now started confirming this. For example Journal of Natural Remedies, has published that blue pea flower may help in coping with depression. It concludes that this traditional herb has a wide spectrum of neuropharmacological benefits. Such as nootropic, anti-depressant, anti-stress, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant activities.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower for improving Skin Health

Hate the chemicals in skin creams. We do too. The Butterfly Blue Pea flower is rich in polyphenols, proanthocyanidin, and flavonoids. These natural compounds stop the harmful effects of free radicals that damage and degrade skin. Dermatological studies published in renowned journals demonstrated that butterfly pea flowers may have antiglycation and antioxidant properties. These antioxidants protect you from free radicals breaking the collagen in your skin. Results: Reduced skin blemishes, wrinkles, dark spots, fine lines, and loose, saggy skin.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower for improving Cognitive Function

Known as the “Shanka Pushpi”, the blue pea flower comes under the “Medhya” category in Ayurveda. This means that it may enhance neurological health.

A scientific review demonstrated the neuroprotective properties of the Butterfly Pea flower. These properties may significantly improve cognitive health, improving learning capacity, and boosting memory on regular consumption. These benefits may also suggest that they can help in the prevention of many neurological ailments. 

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower as an Antiviral Tea

There are many deadly viruses out there such as Ebola and Covid-19. Even though fighting them is not that easy, several other viruses that are less deadly (but still harmful) can be fought against, without any vaccines. 

One major health benefit of butterfly pea is its antiviral properties. According to a study, blue pea flower has shown antivirus properties that may help prevent potential attacks from different viruses. 

Butterfly Blue Pea flower is also Antipyretic

This traditional medicinal plant bears flowers that might help you with almost anything! Another amazing health benefit of blue pea flower is its antipyretic property. Research shows that just freshly brewed blue tea can help in reducing fevers drastically. 

Another lab test done on albino rats with yeast-induced pyrexia (fever) revealed positive results. The scientists did this to evaluate the methanol extract of Clitoria ternatea for any potential antipyretic properties. A single extract produced a significant reduction in normal body temperature and yeast-provoked elevated temperature in a dose-dependent manner. 

This flower expands the blood vessels under the skin, which increases the blood flow. This cools your body down. The study also suggested that the antipyretic effect of the extract was comparable to that of paracetamol, a standard antipyretic agent.

Blue Pea Flower contains very high amounts of Antioxidants

The Butterfly Pea flower has shown antioxidant properties in many lab studies. The reason for most of the benefits is the ample amounts of antioxidants present in this flower. Anthocyanin, a potent antioxidant, is the star of the show.

To prevent chronic diseases that come with oxidative stress, foods rich in antioxidants are very useful. Oxidative stress is a medical condition. The free radicals that damage our skin can result in oxidative stress.

Butterfly Blue Pea flower as an Anti-Inflammatory tea

Inflammation is a process that our body initiates to protect itself from outside invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. But when the body doesn’t know when to stop, inflammation can have long-term damaging consequences on your body, hence it is essential to include foods that prevent inflammation in your diet. 

Research has suggested that butterfly pea contains polyphenols that showed anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting components such as flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols are the main cause behind their benefits.

Pharmacies could also use these flowers to make medicines. Medicines that protect against chronic inflammation. By suppressing the excessive production of pro-inflammatory mediators, this could be possible. Meaning, it can curb the factors that might cause inflammation.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Anti-Diabetic

Apart from genetics, your lifestyle choices heavily impact your risk of developing type-2 diabetes. Being overweight or obese makes your cells more resistant to the effects of insulin on your blood sugar.

Diabetes patients always have a hard time finding a beverage they could enjoy. Well, they won’t if they have a blue tea beside them! One cup of this beautiful blue potion taken between meals can prove very useful in maintaining blood sugar levels.

Butterfly Blue Pea flower offers miraculous health benefits. Recent research reveals that the blue pea flower may have antidiabetic activity. It helps inhibit the intake of glucose from the diet and lower blood sugar.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is also Anti-Asthmatic

One of the natural ways of preventing Asthma is to consume foods having anti-asthmatic properties. For example, you guessed it, Blue Pea flower. 

A lab study evaluated the extract of the Blue Pea plant’s roots. The results demonstrated antiasthmatic activity. This indicates that consumption of blue tea may be beneficial to prevent asthma as well.

It acts as an expectorant and helps in reducing any irritation present in the respiratory organs. For those who have asthma, the extract of these roots may help in suppressing the symptoms.


Butterfly Blue Pea Flower as an Analgesic

There are many natural sources of food that provide analgesic properties. Cloves, Ginger, and essential oils of Rosemary, Peppermint, or Eucalyptus, for example. blue pea flower is also one of them.

In a recent study, researchers induced writhing in some mice by administrating acetic acid in their blood.  Researchers found a significant decrease in the twisting, squirming movements, or contortions of the body after using the extract of Butterfly Blue Pea flower. This result indicated the analgesic properties present in the ethanol extract of the Blue Pea flower.



Spearmint Leaves

A hand holding a twig of spearmint. Spearmint leaves for demonstration.
Photo by Ivanna Kykla from Pexels

Also known as the “garden mint”, this minty herb contains aromatic oil, called the oil of spearmint. It is used as a flavouring and sometimes as a scent. This oil is one of the main reasons behind the various health benefits of spearmint, such as:

Spearmint Helps with Weight Management

Research has suggested that spearmint may help in managing weight and preventing obesity. It is not some magical herb, but it can aid in a healthy diet, a balanced lifestyle, and ideal weight.

Spearmint tea may act as a catalyst in your weight loss journey. It may act as a potential treatment for obesity, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Also, tea made with spearmint is very low in calories, meaning it won’t add much to your daily intake.

Spearmint May help Reduce Stress

Mental health is a very serious issue, especially in today’s world. We often ignore it as a society. We need natural ways to take care of our mental health.

Spearmint tea may help in relaxing your nerves and reducing stress. It is a natural anti-stress agent and helps you keep calm in stressful situations. In some South American countries, people have traditionally used spearmint as a remedy for stress and insomnia.

Recently, in a lab study, scientists gave spearmint extract to rats for observing any potential changes. The results indicated decreased anxiety and improved sleep. Spearmint leaves contain menthol, which is famous for its relaxing properties.

Spearmint may help Maintain Blood Sugar Levels

Research suggests that spearmint tea may help lower blood sugar in some diabetes patients. There have not been any extensive human studies on the matter. But, studies on rats with diabetes have shown lower blood sugar levels when given spearmint.

In a lab study that having healthy and diabetic rats, the researchers gave spearmint extract to the rats every day. Compared to the healthy rats, the diabetic rats displayed lower levels of blood sugar.

In another study, the researchers gave 300 mg (per kg of body weight) of spearmint extract to diabetic rats daily for 21 days. The study reported a 25% reduction in blood sugar.

Spearmint may help in Dealing with PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance in women. PCOS makes women produce amounts of male hormones that are considered more than normal. This happens due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Women suffering from PCOS often report symptoms like irregular periods, excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or buttocks, hair loss, and acne.

Spearmint tea may help with PCOS. It has an anti-androgenic effect that results in a significant decrease in testosterone levels that may help in the treatment of PCOS.

In a 30-day study, 42 women with PCOS were given spearmint tea twice a day. Compared to the control group, these women showed lower testosterone levels. Similar results were found in another study, which was conducted on 12 women with PCOS.  Researchers gave spearmint tea to women with facial hair twice a day for 30 days in a different study. The results reported a significant reduction in facial hair.  

Spearmint may Improve Memory

Wouldn’t it be great if chugging on tea helped improve how our brain functions? Well, it’s not far from possible! Spearmint can help improve brain function by boosting memory.

Spearmint has neuroprotective properties. It increases neurotransmitter levels, protects neurons, and promotes neural growth. The chemical analysis says that spearmint may help improve memory and treat memory-related ailments such as Alzheimer’s disease.

A study tested mice’s memory by making them pass a maze test. After giving them some spearmint extract, the mice experienced improved learning and memory. Similarly, in a more recent study, scientists gave supplements containing 900 mg of spearmint extract to some older adults with memory impairment. The results showed a 15% improvement in working memory.

Spearmint has Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect our bodies from the cellular damage caused by free radicals. These are harmful molecules that might cause oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress can lead to several chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Foods rich in antioxidants are very useful in preventing chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress. As mentioned above, oxidative stress is a medical condition. The free radicals that damage our skin can result in oxidative stress.

Spearmint has a lot of antioxidants. The most prominent ones are rosmarinic acid, flavones and flavanones like limonene and menthol. Antioxidants are also responsible for the memory-boosting and neuroprotective properties of spearmint.

Peppermint Leaves

A bowl filled with peppermint leaves for demonstration.
Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Compared to spearmint which has only 1% on menthol, peppermint has a whopping 40%. It adds a more intense “minty” flavour to the Cool Green Ocean. Peppermint also offers a lot of benefits, such as:

Peppermint may Improve Oral Health

Popularly used for flavouring candies and breath mints, peppermint has a pleasant minty taste. In fact, this fresh mint is not just good for taste, but for your oral hygiene as well. 

A study has reported that peppermint oil shows antibacterial activity that restricts the rapid growth of a bacteria called staphylococcus. In another study, test subjects who were given peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oils demonstrated improved breath.

The cooling properties of peppermint can effectively soothe tooth and muscle aches. Peppermint helps fight off oral pathogens and kills common bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease. This is the reason why peppermint can be found as a prominent ingredient in most kinds of toothpaste, gums, and several kinds of mouthwash.

Peppermint may Improve Digestion

Peppermint may prove useful in treating digestive ailments such as bloating and indigestion.  It also has a relaxing effect on the intestinal smooth muscle.

Studies conducted on animals indicate that essential oils present in peppermint helps relax the digestive tissues. It also prevents smooth muscle contraction and spasms.  

A different series of studies conducted on children revealed that peppermint significantly reduced the duration, frequency, and severity of abdominal pain. Include peppermint in your diet and keep those stomach ailments at bay!

Peppermint may help treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is actually a very common intestinal disorder, that consists of symptoms like diarrhoea, constipation, and stomach pain. Although IBS cannot be cured, you can avoid the symptoms by managing their diet and lifestyle. Some may need medication.

Research has reported results based on a series of studies done on 926 people. The researchers treated the test subjects were with peppermint oil for two weeks. The results showed significantly better symptom relief among the subjects.

Another study done on 72 people who suffered from IBS gave similar results. The consumption of peppermint oil capsules reduced the symptoms of IBS by 40% after 4 weeks.

Peppermint is Anti-Viral

Today, we face new strains of viruses that are getting difficult to fight. So, incorporating antiviral foods into our diet has become a necessity. In fact, peppermint can help here. The essential oils present in peppermint have two main components-menthol and menthone. Research (in vitro) has suggested that peppermint has significant antiviral effects. 

This antiviral property of peppermint may even have a direct effect on our respiratory system and its health. To summarize, it may help with problems in the respiratory tract, nasal tract, and coughing reflexes. 

Stevia Leaves

Image by 13082 from Pixabay

Finally, the final ingredient that we add to this magical drink is stevia leaves. Added as a sweetener, stevia is a much healthier alternative to sugar. It gives the final touch to the taste of Cool Green Ocean. Stevia offers a lot of benefits:

Stevia Leaves help maintain Blood Pressure

High amounts of systolic and diastolic blood pressure cause hypertension. This may lead to cardiovascular diseases. Stevia leaves have anti-hypertensive properties which means that they may help in lowering blood pressure.

A study conducted on hypertensive rats indicated that high doses of stevia extract were beneficial to their health. Stevia caused vasodilation-widening of blood vessels and a lower mean arterial pressure in the hypertensive rats.

In another test, hypertensive human subjects were given stevia extracts- 250 mg three times a day for 3 months. A reduction in blood pressure was observed.

Stevia Leaves are Anti-Inflammatory

Stevioside is the main sweetener found in the leaves of the Stevia plant. There is plenty of evidence to support that stevioside acts as an anti-inflammatory agent in both lab studies and animal studies. 

Chronic inflammation causes inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Stevia leaves may help in treating them.

Research suggests that the ent-kaurene diterpene glycosides isolated from the Stevia plant were found to suppress inflammation.

Stevia Leaves as Anti-Diabetic

In countries like Brazil, stevioside from the stevia plant is used for treating diabetes.

In a study, 12 patients with type-2 diabetes were given a standard meal. One group was given stevia and the other group was given starch(control group).

The results reported that stevioside reduced the postprandial blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetic patients, indicating beneficial effects on glucose metabolism.

Stevia Leaves may help with Weight Management

Do you know that obesity is a major and possibly fatal issue? It is increasing rapidly as the world moves towards fast foods and sugary treats. Sugar is the main reason why people face weight issues and obesity. One tablespoon of sugar (12 grams) provides about 45 calories.

On the other hand, stevia is calorie-free. This is actually the main reason why stevia is a proper alternative to sugar, as it may keep you full longer without extra calories.

In a study of 31 adults, two groups were given a 290-calorie snack made with stevia and a 500-calorie snack made with sugar. The stevia group reported a more fullness level. In fact, they felt more satiated even though they consumed fewer calories as compared to the control group.


To Conclude

With this powerful combination of butterfly blue pea flower, spearmint, peppermint, and stevia leaves, the Cool Green Ocean is a unique blend that is a must-try.  Combining all the benefits from the potent ingredients, it acts as a potion of life.

So, give it a whirl, and make sure to let us know your valuable opinions. Don’t forget to try all the other amazing teas from our wide range of fine concoctions. Ono Teas brings you this minty freshness right at your doorsteps.

If you are a woman, here’s a tea specially crafted for you: Spearmint PCOD Tea. You can find out why spearmint is great for you by reading Spearmint: A Boon for the Ladies. If you like exploring the health benefits of all these exciting teas, make sure you check out our other blogs such as Stay Fresh and Lovely with Rose Mint Tea.

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Full Petal Hibiscus Flower – A Crimson Delight

2 cups of hibiscus tea with 1 cup and and 1 bowl filled with hibiscus flowers.

When thinking about herbal teas, usually a yellow drink with some mints or spices comes to our mind. But guess what? Just like the huge variety of benefits they offer, herbal teas come in a variety of colours. Take Full Petal Hibiscus Flower tea for example.

Being one of the most potent herbal teas to exist, hibiscus tea is an experience in itself. Made by the infusion of crimson-coloured Roselle flowers, this beautiful drink has a tart flavour, which can be described as a lip-smacking-sour taste resembling cranberries’ taste. 

What’s So Great About Hibiscus Tea?

Hibiscus tea is a delectable treat that you can enjoy both hot and cold. Making it is easy, and you can enhance its flavour by adding herbs like ginger, cinnamon, and mint. Alternatively, you can also choose to sweeten it with honey or tart it up further with lemons or any other citrus fruit.

Due to being absolutely caffeine-free, this tart elixir can be enjoyed any time of the day, without worrying if it might affect your sleep. Although most people recommend having a cup after dinner, as it allows the flavonoids to act better. This reduces the absorption of fats from your meals, making them healthier.

People often use hibiscus tea as a medicinal tea, despite having a great flavour profile. Traditionally, African countries use hibiscus tea to treat heart disease, decrease body temperature, and soothe a sore throat. Building upon the historical significance, modern science has also done quite a lot of research on hibiscus. This caffeine-free and calorie-free (not if you add sugar or honey) beverage offers a surfeit of health benefits.

Hibiscus may help with Weight Control

Most of us struggle with weight issues in our daily lives. Including Hibiscus in our drinks such as tea can help in controlling our body weight.  Today, obesity is one of the most underrated medical conditions in our society. It is extremely dangerous and can lead to other diseases including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. 

Studies have shown that the extract of the Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) flower can help in weight management by regulating our body’s metabolism. Along with the right exercises, this can help you in maintaining a healthy body.   

A study conducted on 36 overweight people had the participants divided into two groups- one was given hibiscus extract and the control group took a placebo. After 12 weeks, the hibiscus extract reduced their body fat, body weight, hip-to-waist ratio, and body mass index.  

Another study, done on obese mice, reported a reduction in their body weight after 60 days of regular administration of hibiscus extract.  Besides regular exercise and a balanced diet, hibiscus tea can prove essential in managing body weight.

Hibiscus may help control Blood Pressure

Blood pressure can be a very serious problem if ignored. Hypertension can cause severe stroke, and can even be fatal. Preventing such a disastrous condition is crucial to our health. Over time, high blood pressure can weaken the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease. 

According to some results shown in a study, hibiscus is shown to reduce both systolic (SBP) and diastolic(DBP) blood pressure. In a study done with 65 people having high blood pressure, the subjects were divided into two groups. The experimental group was given hibiscus tea and the control group was given a placebo. 

After 6 weeks, the people who had hibiscus tea showed a significant decrease in their systolic blood pressure, compared to the control group. Therefore hibiscus tea may help in maintaining proper blood pressure naturally, paving the way to a risk-free life.

May give you a Healthy Heart 

The importance of monitoring your cholesterol levels is exponentially great. We must be extremely aware of the health choices we make while choosing what we consume in our daily lives. Hibiscus may help in lowering the fat levels in our blood. There is plenty of research on the subject to support this.

By reducing the cholesterol metabolism in our body, a study suggests that Hibiscus has pharmacological properties that may prevent cardiovascular diseases, which minimizes the risk factors, giving us a healthy heart.

In a study, 60 diabetic people were divided into two groups- one was given hibiscus tea and the other one drank black tea. After one month of regular consumption, those who drank hibiscus tea reported decreased levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.   

Researchers at PubMed conducted another study with subjects suffering from metabolic syndrome. They administered a daily dose of 100 mg of hibiscus extract to the subjects, for one month. The researchers observed that the extract decreased total cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol).

Hibiscus can be an Anti-Depressant

Mental health is very serious and we often tend to ignore it. Our fast-paced lives can be stressful, and if we don’t do anything about it, we end up suffering. 

Manifestly, those who suffer from a major mental illness need to consult a therapist as their top priority. According to a study, the extract of hibiscus has shown antidepressant-like properties. Also, it did not have any sedative properties, that modern antidepressants usually have.

Hibiscus is Anti-Diabetic

Diabetes is a chronic disease that destroys so many lives every day. The life of a diabetic person can be very troublesome, and therefore a refreshing drink that may relieve some of those problems can help a lot! As per research, the powder of the hibiscus flower can reduce glucose levels and improve lipid profile in our body, therefore it may improve the condition of some diabetic patients.

Hibiscus is also Antipyretic

Fevers and coughs are two of the most common ailments that almost anyone can contract these days. While taking an antibiotic seems like the best solution, but taking medicines regularly is not good for our bodies.  We must incorporate healthy food choices into our lifestyles to prevent them from happening in the first place. 

According to a study, the Hibiscus flowers have properties shown to help in bronchitis and relieve fevers and coughs. So next time you catch a fever, making a nice beverage containing Hibiscus just might help you get through it. 

Hibiscus is Full of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that are very essential to our bodies. They protect us from the cellular damage caused by free radicals, which often leads to oxidative stress. If not controlled, it paves the way for chronic diseases such as heart conditions, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Oxidative stress also contributes to faster ageing. 

Hibiscus tea is rich in powerful antioxidants, therefore it helps prevent the damage and diseases that the free radicals can cause. There are many other studies to find more about the antioxidant activity of hibiscus. Scientists in a study used hibiscus extract on rats to examine its antioxidant activity. They observed that the extract increased the number of antioxidant enzymes and reduced the damage caused by free radicals by up to 92%.  

Another study conducted on rats delivered similar results. It was found that different parts of the hibiscus plant, such as the leaves, possess potent antioxidant properties. There is still a lot of room for human-based research done on hibiscus.

Hibiscus May Promote Liver Health

Needless to say, the liver is one of the most crucial organs of the human body. It secretes bile juice, excretes waste products, and metabolizes fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Maintaining proper liver health is very important, and studies suggest that hibiscus may help keep it working efficiently.

A study conducted on overweight people revealed that administering hibiscus extract for 12 weeks improved their liver steatosis, a medical term for fatty liver disease.  If not treated, the extreme buildup of fat can lead to liver failure.

Another study, conducted on hamsters, revealed that hibiscus extract prevented potential damage-causing markers in the liver. This reduction of liver damage markers indicates the protective nature of the hibiscus flower.  

In another study, the administration of hibiscus extract in rats resulted in a 65% increase in the drug-detoxifying enzymes that are present in the liver. Having hibiscus tea regularly could protect your liver against fatty liver disease and detoxify it as well.

May Help Prevent Cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death. The uncontrollable division of cancer cells can result in tumours and damage to the immune system that can be fatal. The best way to deal with it is to try and prevent it. Hibiscus contains compounds such as polyphenols, that are helpful in the prevention of cancer.

Many lab studies have examined the potential effect of hibiscus extract on cancer cells. In a test-tube study, scientists suggested that hibiscus extract showed the ability to reduce the motility and invasiveness of two different types of cancers.  

Another study revealed that hibiscus leaf extract helped prevent the spreading of prostate cancer cells in humans. Hibiscus extract has shown the ability to inhibit the growth of stomach cancer cells by almost 52% in other studies.  (1)

Seems Interesting?

Making a cup of hibiscus tea is extremely easy, simply be steep in hot water, remove and enjoy! You can choose to sweeten it with honey or sugar for extra flavours, although they might bring in some calories with them.

Here at Ono Teas, we have crafted a pure, authentic experience for you to enjoy. Try the Full Petal Hibiscus Flower Tea –  a refreshing, easy-to-make infusion that is the perfect addition to your wellness routine.

Sip it in the morning or have a cup after dinner. Either way, this elixir works wonders for your body. So try out the Full Petal Hibiscus Flower and share your experience with us. If you enjoyed this brew, make sure to check out our wide range of premium quality teas.

If you are hesitant about trying out new teas, here are 10 common myths about tea, debunked. After reading that, if you want to try something bright and healthy, go for Himalayan Butterfly Blue Pea Flower or Chamomile Lemongrass Tea.

Happy Shopping!

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4 PM Purple Tea- Your Perfect Evening Escape

Evenings are the most unpredictable part of the day. As soon as the clock hits 4 PM, people start doing all kinds of things. At the same time, we go through all kinds of moods. Most of us get tired from working or studying every day. On the other hand, some people find the energy to follow their passions and let their creative juices flowing. Don’t worry, no matter which one you are, 4 PM Purple Tea is the right beverage to accompany all your evenings. 

4 PM Purple Tea is a special creation by Ono Teas. It has beautiful and tarty hibiscus petals along with bright blue butterfly blue pea flowers. These two beautiful ingredients come together to give you the pleasurable evening that you deserve. But it’s not just about pleasure– 4 PM Purple Tea is full of health benefits that might surprise you. So what are the health benefits that you get from this amazing brew? Let’s find out.

Hibiscus Flower Petals

2 cups of hibiscus tea with ice and a heart-shaped bowl filled with hibiscus flowers
Flower photo created by azerbaijan_stockers – www.freepik.com

Hibiscus may help with Weight Control

Many of us struggle with weight issues in our daily lives. Including Hibiscus in our drinks such as tea can help in controlling our body weight.  Currently, obesity is one of the most underrated medical conditions in our society. It is extremely dangerous and can lead to other diseases including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. 

Studies have shown that the extract of the Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) flower can help in weight management by regulating our body’s metabolism. Along with the right exercises, this can help you in maintaining a healthy body.   

A study conducted on 36 overweight people had the participants divided into two groups- one was given hibiscus extract and the control group took a placebo. After 12 weeks, the hibiscus extract reduced their body fat, body weight, hip-to-waist ratio, and body mass index.  

Another study, done on obese mice, reported a reduction in their body weight after 60 days of regular administration of hibiscus extract.  Besides regular exercise and a balanced diet, hibiscus tea can prove essential in managing body weight.

Hibiscus may help control Blood Pressure

Blood pressure can be a very serious problem if ignored. Hypertension can cause severe stroke, and can even be fatal. Preventing such a disastrous condition is crucial to our health. Over time, high blood pressure can weaken the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease. 

According to some results shown in a study, hibiscus is shown to reduce both systolic (SBP) and diastolic(DBP) blood pressure. In a study done with 65 people having high blood pressure, the subjects were divided into two groups. The experimental group was given hibiscus tea and the control group was given a placebo. 

After 6 weeks, the people who had hibiscus tea showed a significant decrease in their systolic blood pressure, compared to the control group. Therefore hibiscus tea may help in maintaining proper blood pressure naturally, paving the way to a risk-free life.

May give you a Healthy Heart 

The importance of monitoring your cholesterol levels is exponentially great. We must be extremely aware of the health choices we make while choosing what we consume in our daily lives. Hibiscus may help in lowering the fat levels in our blood. There is plenty of research on the subject to support this.

By reducing the cholesterol metabolism in our body, a study suggests that Hibiscus has pharmacological properties that may prevent cardiovascular diseases, which minimizes the risk factors, giving us a healthy heart.

In a study, 60 diabetic people were divided into two groups- one was given hibiscus tea and the other one drank black tea. After one month of regular consumption, those who drank hibiscus tea reported decreased levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.   

Researchers at PubMed conducted another study with subjects suffering from metabolic syndrome. They administered a daily dose of 100 mg of hibiscus extract to the subjects, for one month. The researchers observed that the extract decreased total cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol).

Hibiscus can be an Anti-Depressant

Mental health is very serious and we often tend to ignore it. Our fast-paced lives can be stressful, and if we don’t do anything about it, we end up suffering. 

Manifestly, those who suffer from a major mental illness need to consult a therapist as their top priority. According to a study, the extract of hibiscus has shown antidepressant-like properties. Also, it did not have any sedative properties, that modern antidepressants usually have.

Hibiscus is Anti-Diabetic

Diabetes is a chronic disease that destroys so many lives every day. The life of a diabetic person can be very troublesome, and therefore a refreshing drink that may relieve some of those problems can help a lot! As per research, the powder of the hibiscus flower can reduce glucose levels and improve lipid profile in our body, therefore it may improve the condition of some diabetic patients.

Hibiscus is also Antipyretic

Fevers and coughs are two of the most common ailments that almost anyone can contract these days. While taking an antibiotic seems like the best solution, but taking medicines regularly is not good for our bodies.  We must incorporate healthy food choices into our lifestyles to prevent them from happening in the first place. 

According to a study, the Hibiscus flowers have properties shown to help in bronchitis and relieve fevers and coughs. So next time you catch a fever, making a nice beverage containing Hibiscus just might help you get through it. 

Hibiscus is Full of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that are very essential to our bodies. They protect us from the cellular damage caused by free radicals, which often leads to oxidative stress. If not controlled, it paves the way for chronic diseases such as heart conditions, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Oxidative stress also contributes to faster ageing. 

Hibiscus tea is rich in powerful antioxidants, therefore it helps prevent the damage and diseases that the free radicals can cause. There are many other studies to find more about the antioxidant activity of hibiscus. Scientists in a study used hibiscus extract on rats to examine its antioxidant activity. They observed that the extract increased the number of antioxidant enzymes and reduced the damage caused by free radicals by up to 92%.  

Another study conducted on rats delivered similar results. It was found that different parts of the hibiscus plant, such as the leaves, possess potent antioxidant properties. There is still a lot of room for human-based research done on hibiscus.

Hibiscus May Promote Liver Health

Needless to say, the liver is one of the most crucial organs of the human body. It secretes bile juice, excretes waste products, and metabolizes fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Maintaining proper liver health is very important, and studies suggest that hibiscus may help keep it working efficiently.

A study conducted on overweight people revealed that administering hibiscus extract for 12 weeks improved their liver steatosis, a medical term for fatty liver disease.  If not treated, the extreme buildup of fat can lead to liver failure.

Another study, conducted on hamsters, revealed that hibiscus extract prevented potential damage-causing markers in the liver. This reduction of liver damage markers indicates the protective nature of the hibiscus flower.  

In another study, the administration of hibiscus extract in rats resulted in a 65% increase in the drug-detoxifying enzymes that are present in the liver. Having hibiscus tea regularly could protect your liver against fatty liver disease and detoxify it as well.

May Help Prevent Cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death. The uncontrollable division of cancer cells can result in tumours and damage to the immune system that can be fatal. The best way to deal with it is to try and prevent it. Hibiscus contains compounds such as polyphenols, that are helpful in the prevention of cancer.

Many lab studies have examined the potential effect of hibiscus extract on cancer cells. In a test-tube study, scientists suggested that hibiscus extract showed the ability to reduce the motility and invasiveness of two different types of cancers.  

Another study revealed that hibiscus leaf extract helped prevent the spreading of prostate cancer cells in humans. Hibiscus extract has shown the ability to inhibit the growth of stomach cancer cells by almost 52% in other studies.  (1)

Blue Pea Flower

Cup of Butterfly pea flower tea with honey on table
Background photo created by jcomp – www.freepik.com

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower Helps with Depression

Blue Pea flower, Ajaparita, or Shankhpushpi finds many references in Ayurveda. People have traditionally used it for improving mood and fighting mental issues. The consumption of this beautiful flower has a plethora of pharmacological benefits. One of them is to help with mental illnesses.

Sources have reported that the blue pea flower may have help in coping with depression. Researchers have stated that it has a wide spectrum of neuropharmacological benefits such as nootropic, anti-depressant, and anti-stress properties.

Instead of relying on heavy chemically produced drugs, one should find a natural way to calm their mind and uplift their mood. One such way is to enjoy this beautiful wonder called blue tea.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower May Improve Skin Health

A lot of people face skin issues that keep recurring and are very difficult to get rid of. Numerous creams and gels and other sorts of products contain chemicals that harm your skin rather than taking care of it. Dermatologists have suggested that the Butterfly Blue Pea flower is rich in polyphenols, proanthocyanidin, and flavonoids, which stop the harmful effects of free radicals that damage and degrade skin.

Blue Tea made from the flower of the Clitoria Ternatea plant is very beneficial for skin health. This pretty blue flower has the power to make your skin as beautiful as a butterfly! On a serious note, studies have demonstrated that the butterfly pea flower may have antiglycation and antioxidant properties. 

This antioxidant property protects you from harmful free radicals that cause the collagen in your skin to break- resulting in unflattering skin blemishes like wrinkling, dark spots, fine lines, and loose, saggy skin. This means that this flower has the potential to be a therapeutic solution for age-related skin issues. Including this flower as a part of your skincare regime would be a wise decision.

As a bonus, apart from skin health, the Blue Pea flower also takes care of your hair, due to the presence of anthocyanin – a compound known to increase blood circulation in the head and therefore maintain a healthy scalp. It also helps in strengthening the hair follicles from within.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower May Improve Cognitive Function

Known as the “Shanka Pushpi”, the Blue Pea flower comes under the “Medhya” category in Ayurveda. This means that it may enhance neurological health. Our ancestors have passed down this precious knowledge that now helps us in our daily lives. 

Studies demonstrated the neuroprotective properties may significantly improve cognitive health on regular consumption. Other studies also support the idea that the Butterfly Pea Flower could help in improving learning capacity and boosting memory.

These neuropharmacological benefits may also suggest that they can help in the prevention of many neurological ailments. 

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Antiviral

There are many deadly viruses out there such as Ebola and Covid-19. Even though fighting them is not that easy, several other viruses are less deadly (but still harmful) that can be fought against, without any vaccines. Natural means to fight viruses are rare. One such way is to incorporate herbal teas into our lives. Blue Tea is a perfect example.

Blue pea flowers are often used as a colouring agent in many foods. They are also known to change their colour with the addition of different ingredients. Apart from this, one major health benefit of butterfly pea is its antiviral properties. According to a study, the blue pea flower has shown antivirus properties that may help prevent potential attacks from different viruses.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Antipyretic

This traditional medicinal plant bears flowers that might help you with anything! Another amazing health benefit of the blue pea flower is its antipyretic property.

Research shows that just a freshly brewed cup of blue tea can help in reducing fevers drastically. In another study done on albino rats with yeast-induced pyrexia (fever), the methanol extract of Clitoria ternatea was evaluated for its antipyretic potential. 

A single extract of around 300 mg/kg (of body weight) produced a significant reduction in normal body temperature and yeast-provoked elevated temperature in a dose-dependent manner. The effect extended up to 5 hours after administration. This flower does so by expanding the blood vessels under the skin to increase the blood flow and your body is cooled down.

The study also suggested that the antipyretic effect of the extract was comparable to that of paracetamol, a standard antipyretic agent.

Blue Pea Flower Contains Very High Amounts of Antioxidants

The extract of Clitoria ternatea L. (the blue pea flower) has undergone a lot of research and has shown a lot of promising health benefits. The most prominent property has to be the antioxidant activity that paves the way for so many benefits.

Studies show that the blue pea flower has been evaluated for antioxidant properties. The reason for most of the benefits is the ample amounts of antioxidants present in this flower – anthocyanin, a potent antioxidant, is the star of the show.

Foods rich in antioxidants are very useful in the prevention of chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress- a condition that is caused by the damage done by free radicals to our cells. This antioxidant is also the main reason behind the skin-nourishing properties of butterfly blue pea. The antioxidants in butterfly pea can rejuvenate the skin by stimulating collagen synthesis and reducing the signs of ageing.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Anti-Inflammatory

Inflammation is a process that our body initiates to protect itself from outside invaders, such as bacteria and viruses. But when the body doesn’t know when to stop, inflammation can have long-term damaging consequences on your body, hence it is essential to include foods that prevent inflammation in your diet. 

Research has suggested that butterfly pea contains polyphenols that showed anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting components such as flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols are the main cause behind their benefits.

Pharmacies could also use these flowers to make medicines. Medicines that protect against chronic inflammation. By suppressing the excessive production of pro-inflammatory mediators, this could be possible. Meaning, it can curb the factors that might cause inflammation.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is also Anti-Diabetic

Apart from genetics, your lifestyle choices heavily impact your risk of developing type-2 diabetes. Being overweight or obese makes your cells more resistant to the effects of insulin on your blood sugar.

Diabetes patients always have a hard time finding a beverage they could enjoy. Well, they won’t if they have a blue tea beside them! One cup of this beautiful blue potion taken between meals can prove very useful in maintaining blood sugar levels.

Recent research has revealed that the blue pea flower is reported to have antidiabetic activity. It helps inhibit the intake of glucose from the diet and lower blood sugar.

Enjoying a great-tasting beverage and taking care of your health is something you would want for sure. Although many antidiabetic drugs are available in the market that help prevent diabetes, it is always wise to opt for natural alternatives that do not have any side effects.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower is Anti-Asthmatic

Asthma is a very common disease with more than 10 million cases per year in India. There is no real cure for it, and living with the constant fear of asthma attacks and relying on pumps or inhalers is not something we would want. One of the natural ways of preventing Asthma is to consume foods having anti-asthmatic properties. For example, you guessed it, the Blue Pea flower. 

A lab study evaluated the extract of the Blue Pea plant’s roots. The results demonstrated antiasthmatic activity. This indicates that consumption of blue tea may be beneficial to prevent asthma as well.

It acts as an expectorant and helps in reducing any irritation present in the respiratory organs. For those who have asthma, the extract of these roots may help in suppressing the symptoms.

Butterfly Blue Pea Flower as an Analgesic

There are many natural sources of food that provide analgesic properties – Cloves, Ginger, and essential oils of Rosemary, Peppermint, or Eucalyptus. The blue pea flower is also one of them.

In a recent study, researchers induced writhing in some mice by administrating acetic acid in their blood.  Researchers found a significant decrease in the twisting, squirming movements, or contortions of the body after using Butterfly Blue Pea flower extract. Indicating that the ethanol extract of the blue pea plant’s root showed analgesic properties. 

We are all tired of trying artificial painkillers filled with chemicals. Try a blue tea made by butterfly pea flower and enjoy a natural and refreshing drink that will soothe your pain and help you relax.

Evenings Made Better

4 PM Purple Tea is the perfect partner for all your evening snacks. Even if you don’t have a snack, it stands out as the star of your evenings. All these health benefits from hibiscus and blue pea flower make it the ideal evening drink. 
If you want to try 4 PM Purple Tea, you can order your very own pack right now. Start with a trial pack, or take that leap of faith and get a 30-Day pack.

So, if you liked 4 PM Purple Tea, make sure you try other teas from our Heart Wellness Section. In fact, 3 Paan Sheesha and Full Petal Hibiscus are some of my favourites.

Happy evenings!

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Why You Should Try Lavender Oolong– Backed by Science

Oolong Tea

We all need something fresh every now and then. A new song, a walk in the park, or maybe a quick shower can really help freshen things up. How about a cup of tea? A single cup of Lavender Oolong can do wonders for your health and lift your spirits at the same time. But what are these health benefits that we are talking about? That’s what we will find out in this blog. 

Lavender Oolong is a culmination of fresh lavender flowers and oolong tea leaves. Mainly aimed at promoting cardiovascular health, it also helps with weight management, sleep disorders and much more– keep reading to find out!

What is Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea. Just like green tea or black tea, oolong tea comes from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The main difference is the method of processing. Oolong tea is partially oxidized: less than black tea but more than green tea. This partial oxidation is the reason for oolong tea’s characteristic taste and colour. Due to the partial oxidisation, oolong tea has the best of both worlds.

Now that you know about oolong tea, let’s dive deeper into the health benefits it offers. (You can’t make Lavender Oolong without Oolong tea!)

Teapot with printed art filled with Oolong tea leaves
Photo by Jose Esquivel from Pexels

Oolong Tea May Help in Managing your Weight

A natural way to incorporate healthy measures into your diet is to consume tea. Of course, a balanced diet and regular exercise are a must. A lot of studies suggest that tea can play a crucial role in managing body weight. 

Oolong tea is a traditional semi-oxidized Chinese tea. It is different when it comes to taste and aroma, but the benefits are pretty similar to regular tea.

In a study done on 12 men, it was found that compared to water, those who drank tea had more energy in general. The energy expenditure of the men who were given full-strength tea was increased by 2.9%.

May Reduce the Risk of Cancer

One of the most deadly diseases on the face of the earth, cancer has no guaranteed way to be cured. It can only be prevented through a healthy lifestyle, and treatment is also very risky with very low chances of survival. 

The consumption of most types of teas provides properties that drastically affect our lives. Oolong tea has chemopreventive properties that may help keep this disease at bay.

In a study done on black tea extracts, it was found to exhibit anti-mutagenic, anti-proliferative, and anti-neoplastic activities. These activities indicate the potential for the prevention of cancer in humans as well.

Oolong Tea May Prevent Heart Disease

Heart diseases are very common these days. People who are overweight have a higher risk of heart failure. The New Delhi Birth Cohort has revealed in a PubMed research, that “The annual number of deaths from CVD (cardiovascular disease) in India is projected to rise from 2.26 million (1990) to 4.77 million (2020)”.

A study done on 12 men reported that consumption of tea helped them exhibit increasing energy expenditure and fat oxidation. More energy expenditure means less accumulation of lipid, which can decrease the incidence of heart disease.

Another study revealed that 600 out of 1507 subjects who were regular tea drinkers, had a 46% decreased risk of developing hypertension.  

Oolong Tea Acts as an Antioxidant

Oxidative stress is a serious problem that can pave the way for chronic diseases like heart conditions. It is caused by the damage done by free radicals in our bodies. Antioxidants are compounds that reduce or prevent the chance of oxidative stress and hence they are extremely important for us.

Studies reveal that oolong tea shows antioxidant activity between 233 and 532 µmol/g, which is pretty significant. The researchers noticed a modest increase in human plasma antioxidant capacity upon oolong tea consumption.

The compounds responsible for this are Theasinensins,  A–E/alpha-tocopherol, and Theasinensins A–E. They decrease lipid peroxidation, which is a good thing against free radical damage.

Oolong Tea is Anti-Inflammatory 

Inflammation is a process that starts in our bodies once an injury takes place. It can lead to heat, pain, redness, swelling as our body tries to protect itself. But long-term inflammation, lasting for prolonged periods of several months to years, is a bad thing.

Research suggests that ethanol extract of oolong tea shows pro-angiogenic activity mediating protective effects on inflammation. 

Oolong reduces plasma MCP-1, which is another indication of its anti-inflammatory properties. Other components such as flavonoids such as cate-chins, theaflavins, and theasinensins also contribute to its anti-inflammatory nature.

Oolong Tea is also Anti-Diabetic

Diabetes can be very difficult to live with. There is no way to cure it, therefore preventing it is our only option. One way to do this is by incorporating tea into our diets.

Oolong tea may help reduce the risk of diabetes. In a study done on diabetic rats, Oolong tea reduced plasma glucose from 229 to 162.2 mg/dL. Theasinensins play a major role in the anti-diabetic property of Oolong tea. Theasinensins A has shown antihyperglycemic responses in diabetic mice.

Lavender Flowers

Black glass bottle and lavender flowers placed on round brown table
Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva from Pexels

Lavender Reduces Depression & Stress 

With their striking beautiful and unique colour, lavender flowers are not just for show.

Lavender has had a vast culinary history as well, traditionally in Spanish and British cuisines. This is because it possesses a lot of health benefits that are often looked over.

According to a study, researchers used lavender aromatherapy on human test subjects. The results indicated that aromatherapy helped the subjects improve their moods and help reduce stress to a certain degree.

Lavender Helps Reduce Insomnia

Lavender acts as an excellent natural remedy to treat insomnia. The smell of this oil can reduce sleep disturbance and improve overall well-being in older patients.

A study revealed that lavender oil has the potential to show a significant beneficial influence on the quality and duration of sleep. The researchers also observed improved quality of daytime wakefulness and more sustained sleep at night. 

Reduces Anxiety

Used predominantly in aromatherapy or massage, lavender oil offers another health benefit. The sweet fragrance of this beautiful flower during aromatherapy can greatly reduce anxiety and make you calm and collected. One of the best ways to enjoy the benefits of lavender is to drink it in the form of a beverage, such as lavender tea. According to research, lavender oil demonstrates the ability to improve mood and relieve anxiety.

Lavender is Anti-Inflammatory

Inflammation is a process that starts in our bodies once an injury takes place. It can lead to heat, pain, redness, swelling as our body tries to protect itself. But long-term inflammation, lasting for prolonged periods of several months to years, is a bad thing.

Various studies show that the essential oils present in lavender have anti-inflammatory properties. Lavender shows anti-inflammatory properties by both topical treatment and oral ingestion.

Therefore, it can be safe to consume in the form of a meal or a beverage. The best way to consume lavender is by consuming a perfect concoction of freshly brewed tea. 

Fresh and Energizing

The traditional Chinese tea with a soft twist– Lavender Oolong will make you feel better for sure. The floral everlasting taste comes with all these benefits as a bonus! After reading all this, I’m sure you might wanna try it out yourself. 

You can order a pack of Lavender Oolong right at your doorstep. Buy a trial pack first, or go directly for the 30-day pack. If you liked Lavender Oolong, make sure you check out the rest of our Heart Wellness Teas. You might be interested in teas such as Rooibos Tea. Check out our other blogs such as 7 reasons to try Rooibos and Spice It Up With Spicy Oolong.

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Tired of Regular Green Tea? Try Gunpowder Tea

In today’s health-conscious world, you have probably heard how great green tea is. You might already know how healthy it is and how you should definitely check out its health benefits. But have you heard of gunpowder green tea?

What is Gunpowder Tea?

gunpowder green tea leaves
gunpowder green tea leaves

Don’t worry– gunpowder green tea is not actually made from gunpowder. It comes from the same plant as black tea or classic green tea–Camellia Sinensis. Gunpowder Tea is made by rolling dried tea leaves in the form of pearls which resembles gunpowder. Gunpowder Tea is also named because of its nature of immediately expanding itself when dropped in hot water.

The name Gunpowder comes from the Chinese phrase “gang pao de”, meaning freshly brewed. Gunpowder tea was first created in Pingshui, Zhejiang Province, China, during the Tang Dynasty’s rule, more than 1000 years ago. This tea is one of the oldest teas in the world. Apart from being old, gunpowder tea is the most versatile green tea– you can have it with milk, add it to cocktails, or cold-brew it. It’s great for blending as well.

So, let’s delve deeper into the health benefits of gunpowder green tea. Several studies prove that gunpowder green tea has a plethora of health benefits for us.

Gunpowder Green Tea for Weight Management

Green tea is one of the most popular beverages for most health-conscious people out there, and it deserves all the attention it gets. Among the abundance of health benefits that it offers, weight management has to be the most prominent one. 

A review of studies shows that green tea demonstrates anti-obesity properties due to the presence of polyphenols that affect major factors such as cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol that are directly affected by its consumption. 

Gunpowder Green Tea Reduces the Risk of Stroke

Research suggests that consumption of green tea may lower blood pressure and thus reduce the risk of stroke in the future.

Another study suggested that drinking green tea daily might reduce the risk of stroke by about twenty per cent. Poor health choices always lead to our downfall, and hence, green tea just might act as insurance against stroke for such people.

Gunpowder Green Tea is Antibacterial and Antiviral

While doing research specifically on gunpowder green tea, researchers found something surprising. Gunpowder green tea displayed antibacterial properties on something called the paper disk diffusion test. 
Gunpowder green tea is also indicated to help prevent infections by the Tobacco mosaic virus and Cucumber mosaic virus. It also prevented the growth of bacterial pathogens which infect citrus and tomato, namely Xanthomonas campestris pv. citri and pv. vesicatoria, and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato.

It May Reduce The Risk Of Cancer

Cancer is one of the deadliest and most uncertain diseases that may or may not be cured if contracted. Therefore, prevention being our only option, we must incorporate healthier life choices that start with our food.

Scientists suggest green tea to be anticarcinogenic in nature. The consumption of green tea may prove to be helpful in the prevention of many types of cancer, including lung, colon, oesophagus, mouth, stomach, small intestine, kidney, pancreas, and mammary glands.

Gunpowder Green Tea May Prevent Neuronal Damage

Ageing is something we cannot stop, and it often leads to effects that include neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. These cannot be cured, but they can be prevented.

Studies show that green tea is neuroprotective in nature, and green tea polyphenols may significantly help in reducing the risk of these neurological diseases. 

So if you start drinking green tea in your youth, you will never regret it in your old age!

Gunpowder Green Tea May Prevent Heart Disease

Green tea is of the drinks that are actually good for your heart. In the long run, it prevents most of the damage to your cardiovascular health from the inside. 

Since green tea may lower our body’s blood pressure, studies suggest that it may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Although it should be noted that heart patients are not recommended to overconsume green tea.

Gunpowder Green Tea May Help Maintain Blood Pressure

As discussed before, research has indicated that regular consumption of green tea may help in lowering the blood pressure of your body. Green tea may significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, making it a perfect beverage for those who have hypertension. This soothing refreshment can help drastically when consumed daily.

Gunpowder Green Tea is Anti-Diabetic as well

A review of studies has demonstrated that green tea has a direct effect on our blood glucose levels and might help in significantly reducing them.

This property of green tea can result in an anti-diabetic effect, as lowering blood glucose levels can mean better diabetic health for most diabetes patients. Hyperglycemia is a serious issue and any preventive steps that can be taken are really helpful.

Old, Versatile, and Healthy

When I say versatile, I mean it. Gunpowder green tea can be used in cocktails, iced teas, or milk-based brews. But, along with that, gunpowder green tea has been part of many traditional drinks as well. Be it the Noon Chai from Kashmir, or the Moroccan Mint from Morocco, this rolled beauty is part of all of them. 

Carefully selected, the gunpowder tea leaves are a must-have to compliment your invincible nature. If you are a tea enthusiast or a tea connoisseur, or someone who is stepping into the world of teas to make healthier choices, Ono Teas have got you. With the peppery notes, copper aftertaste, grassy overtones, bitterish nutty, or even bread-like notes, the flavour of the Gunpowder Tea is unforgettable.

Wanna Try It Out?

You can! Just order a pack of Gun Powder Tea from our site and you can have it at your doorstep. You can now enjoy the earthy and smoky aroma anytime and anywhere. If you want to try with a small quantity first, you can order the trial pack, or you can take that leap of faith and order the 30-day pack directly.

If you prefer caffeine-free herbal teas, check out Tulsi Sweet Lemon. I’m sure you would love to find out the 7 Reasons To Try Rooibos Tea.

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Try Something New: Silver Needle White Tea

Many people haven’t even heard of white tea, have you? It comes from the same plant as green tea and black tea. Although there’s a similarity in their origins, white tea is unique in its own way. That’s why the Silver Needle White Tea is a one-ingredient showstopper. 

What is White Tea? 

White tea comes from the same plant as black tea and green tea– Camellia sinensis. It gets its name because when white tea leaves and buds are picked just before they are fully open, they’re covered in fine white hairs. According to the place, it’s grown, white tea takes various forms. Every variant differs in taste and colour.

Compared to green tea and black tea, white tea has the lowest caffeine content, making it even healthier for those who prefer low caffeine. White tea has similar health benefits to green and black tea but is unique in its aroma and flavour. 

White Tea Helps With Weight Management

Apart from green tea, white tea may also help in managing weight and burning fat. Caffeine and catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are present in both green and white teas in the same amount. They are linked to each other and may impact body weight.

In a test-tube study, researchers found that white tea extract can stimulate fat breakdown and prevent new fat cells from being formed. EGCG is mainly responsible for this outcome. 

Another study indicated that white tea may help boost your metabolism by around 4–5%. Boosting your metabolism helps burn fat faster, and a 4-5% boost may be equal to 70–100 calories per day.

Prevents Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the major killer diseases around the world. With increasing cases of obesity and unhealthy lifestyles, the risk of heart disease is rapidly growing. Polyphenols present in white tea may help prevent or reduce the risk of heart disease.

A few studies have suggested that polyphenols may help in boosting immunity and relax the blood vessels. (1)(2)  

Another study indicated that polyphenols may prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol (LDL) which leads to heart disease. A study conducted with human subjects found that three cups or more of tea per day resulted in a 21% lower risk of heart disease in the subjects. 

White Tea Improves Oral Health

Green tea is already popular for improving oral hygiene, but white tea also has some benefits. Catechins are great for inhibiting bacterial growth, hence lowering the risk of oral infections.

White tea does not contain any tannins that cause teeth to stain. Researchers conducted a study to measure the antiplaque efficacy of a mouthwash containing white tea. 

A mouthwash containing white tea inhibits plaque formation but is not as good as a chlorhexidine mouthwash. 

White tea also displayed antibacterial activity against Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) in vitro at 1% concentration.

White Tea is Filled With Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that reduce or prevent the chance of oxidative stress and hence they prevent chronic diseases like heart conditions. The polyphenols present in white tea act as antioxidants for your body. 

Research suggests that white tea might be as good as green tea in fighting the damage caused by free radicals. These are two of the best teas to counter oxidation and prevent oxidative stress. Researchers also say that white tea extract can help protect animal nerve cells against damage caused by hydrogen peroxide, a type of free radical.

Another test-tube study revealed that white tea powder helps reduce the inflammation caused by free radicals in human skin cells. 

Anti-Diabetic Property

Diabetes is extremely common and very hard to live with. It cannot be cured and can only be prevented. Due to high levels of sugar in the bloodstream, people with diabetes stop responding to insulin. This is known as insulin resistance.

Researchers reported that white tea polyphenols may lower the risk of insulin resistance, hence preventing diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic disease. Other studies have revealed that EGCG and other polyphenols found in white tea may enhance the effectiveness of insulin and prevent high blood sugar levels.

A review of a huge number of studies with over 1,100 people showed results that indicate the ability of polyphenols to significantly reduce blood sugar and insulin levels.

May Help Prevent Some Cancers

Cancer is easily one of the deadliest diseases out there (We’re getting a lot of those lately, huh?). Apart from being deadly, the lack of a cure makes it all the more dangerous. The only legit way of fighting cancer is to prevent it before it strikes. But how do we do that? With a healthy lifestyle and foods that help. 

Speaking of good foods, white tea can help here as well. Several studies indicate that white tea may have anti-cancer properties.

In a test-tube study, researchers found that white tea extract induced the programmed death of lung cancer cells. They concluded that this extract may be useful as a chemopreventive agent for the treatment of lung cancer.

Two more studies, conducted in the same pattern, indicated that this anti-cancer property of white tea extract may also extend. These studies showed the same effect of white tea extract on colon cancer cells. White tea extract suppressed the growth of colon cancer cells and stopped them from spreading. (1)(2)

Regularly drinking white tea can also protect normal cells from damage, as it is filled with antioxidants.

White Tea May Help Prevent Insulin Resistance

What’s insulin resistance? You might ask. Insulin helps move nutrients from the bloodstream into the cells to be used or stored for later. Due to some factors, mainly high sugar consumption, some people develop a resistance to the effect of this hormone. That’s what we call insulin resistance. It can lead to many chronic health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and metabolic syndrome.

Studies show that polyphenols present in white tea may lower your risk of insulin resistance. Animal studies have also found that compounds like EGCG and polyphenols from white tea can even enhance the effects of insulin and prevent high blood sugar levels.

White Tea May Protect Against Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which the bones in your body become hollow, weak and porous. Regular consumption of white tea may protect you from this condition. 

Researchers have found that chronic inflammation and free radicals accelerate the process of osteoporosis in our bodies. These two factors suppress cells that aid bone growth and promote the bad ones.

So how does white tea help here? White tea contains something called catechins–a type of compound abundant in most teas. These catechins found in white tea may be able to fight these bad factors. Catechins can suppress cells that break down bones. (1)(2)(3)

Seems Interesting?

If you found any of these benefits helpful, you should definitely try Silver Needle White Tea. You never know how a simple cup of tea can change your life. It all begins with a small change!

If you like to stick to the popular teas, here’s Classic Green Tea for you. Want something more to go with it? Here’s Chamomile Green Tea. Liked this blog? Keep exploring new teas by reading our blogs such as Stay Fresh and Lovely with Rose Mint Tea.

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Spice It Up With Spicy Oolong

We all need some spice in our lives. Life can get really boring, really fast. While not diving too deep into the philosophical aspects of our lives, a simple cup of tea can definitely be a pick-me-up. A prime example would be Spicy Oolong– Your regular oolong tea with the spicy twist of cinnamon. If you have never heard of oolong tea or how it’s good for you, then keep reading. 

What is Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea. Just like green tea or black tea, oolong tea comes from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The main difference is the method of processing. Oolong tea is partially oxidized: less than black tea but more than green tea. This partial oxidation is the reason for oolong tea’s characteristic taste and colour. Due to the partial oxidisation, oolong tea has the best of both worlds.

Now that you know about oolong tea, let’s dive deeper into the health benefits it offers.

Teapot with printed art filled with Oolong tea leaves
Photo by Jose Esquivel from Pexels

Oolong Tea May Help in Managing your Weight

A natural way to incorporate healthy measures into your diet is to consume tea. Of course, a balanced diet and regular exercise are a must. A lot of studies suggest that tea can play a crucial role in managing body weight. 

Oolong tea is a traditional semi-oxidized Chinese tea. It is different when it comes to taste and aroma, but the benefits are pretty similar to regular tea.

In a study done on 12 men, it was found that compared to water, those who drank tea had more energy in general. The energy expenditure of the men who were given full-strength tea was increased by 2.9%.

May Reduce the Risk of Cancer

One of the most deadly diseases on the face of the earth, cancer has no guaranteed way to be cured. It can only be prevented through a healthy lifestyle, and treatment is also very risky with very low chances of survival. 

The consumption of most types of teas provides properties that drastically affect our lives. Oolong tea has chemopreventive properties that may help keep this disease at bay.

In a study done on black tea extracts, it was found to exhibit anti-mutagenic, anti-proliferative, and anti-neoplastic activities. These activities indicate the potential for the prevention of cancer in humans as well.

Oolong Tea May Prevent Heart Disease

Heart diseases are very common these days. People who are overweight have a higher risk of heart failure. The New Delhi Birth Cohort has revealed in a PubMed research, that “The annual number of deaths from CVD (cardiovascular disease) in India is projected to rise from 2.26 million (1990) to 4.77 million (2020)”.

A study done on 12 men reported that consumption of tea helped them exhibit increasing energy expenditure and fat oxidation. More energy expenditure means less accumulation of lipid, which can decrease the incidence of heart disease.

Another study revealed that 600 out of 1507 subjects who were regular tea drinkers, had a 46% decreased risk of developing hypertension.  

Oolong Tea Acts as an Antioxidant

Oxidative stress is a serious problem that can pave the way for chronic diseases like heart conditions. It is caused by the damage done by free radicals in our bodies. Antioxidants are compounds that reduce or prevent the chance of oxidative stress and hence they are extremely important for us.

Studies reveal that oolong tea shows antioxidant activity between 233 and 532 µmol/g, which is pretty significant. The researchers noticed a modest increase in human plasma antioxidant capacity upon oolong tea consumption.

The compounds responsible for this are Theasinensins,  A–E/alpha-tocopherol, and Theasinensins A–E. They decrease lipid peroxidation, which is a good thing against free radical damage.

Oolong Tea is Anti-Inflammatory 

Inflammation is a process that starts in our bodies once an injury takes place. It can lead to heat, pain, redness, swelling as our body tries to protect itself. But long-term inflammation, lasting for prolonged periods of several months to years, is a bad thing.

Research suggests that ethanol extract of oolong tea shows pro-angiogenic activity mediating protective effects on inflammation. 

Oolong reduces plasma MCP-1, which is another indication of its anti-inflammatory properties. Other components such as flavonoids such as cate-chins, theaflavins, and theasinensins also contribute to its anti-inflammatory nature.

Oolong Tea is also Anti-Diabetic

Diabetes can be very difficult to live with. There is no way to cure it, therefore preventing it is our only option. One way to do this is by incorporating tea into our diets.

Oolong tea may help reduce the risk of diabetes. In a study done on diabetic rats, Oolong tea reduced plasma glucose from 229 to 162.2 mg/dL. Theasinensins play a major role in the anti-diabetic property of Oolong tea. Theasinensins A has shown antihyperglycemic responses in diabetic mice.

Then What About The Spice?

Cinnamon comes from the inner bark of the small tree Cinnamomum. Doctors have used cinnamon for medical purposes since medieval times. Cinnamon has a sweet and woody flavour with a slight citrusy note. As it offers a lot of health benefits, we often use it as a spice. 

Cinnamon May Lower Cholesterol Levels

According to research done for the Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, cinnamon may help in lowering the cholesterol levels in our blood. C. zeylanicum and C. cassia, both types of cinnamon have shown cholesterol-lowering and lipid-lowering properties.

To quote the results, “After 40 days, 1, 3, or 6 g of cinnamon daily reduced mean fasting serum glucose (18–29%), triglyceride (23–30%), LDL cholesterol (7–27%), and total cholesterol (12–26%) levels”. The researchers noted no significant changes in the placebo groups.

Cinnamon May Improve Oral Health

Commonly used as an additive for flavour, this aromatic condiment has other benefits than making our food better. Cinnamon’s oral health benefits mainly come due to the prime component named cinnamaldehyde.

Research demonstrates that the antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties of cinnamon allow it to effectively cleanse our mouth. That’s why cinnamon has traditionally been used as tooth powder and to treat toothaches, dental problems, etc.

Cinnamon is Full of Antioxidants

Cinnamon is famous for its essential oils. These aromatic essential oils are responsible for their taste, flavour, and aroma. Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help in preserving foods for longer a duration of time, and the consumption of antioxidants prevents oxidative stress. 

A study shows that various extracts of cinnamon have shown considerable antioxidant activity. They also prevent age-related ailments. Especially the methanol extract of cinnamon has the maximum anti-oxidant property. Cinnamon’s antioxidant property is mainly due to the eugenol component which has inhibited peroxynitrite-induced nitration and lipid peroxidation in the tests.

Cinnamon is Anti-Inflammatory

Tests suggest that cinnamon and its essential oils show significant anti-inflammatory properties. 

The researchers suggested that the use of cinnamon for consumption may be beneficial for the therapeutic treatment or prevention of some inflammation-mediated neurodegenerative diseases. 

Including cinnamon as a spice in your diet is heavily beneficial. Another way of consuming cinnamon may be in the form of tea. Try Spicy Oolong, for instance.

Cinnamon is also Anti-Diabetic

Medical professionals often use cinnamon-based supplements to treat diseases like diabetes. Diabetics often struggle with managing their glycemic index. Consumption of cinnamon may help in managing type-2 diabetes. 

Research shows that cinnamon contributes to better diabetic health by not only normalizing the blood sugar levels but also the lipid profile and blood pressure that play an important role in the prevention of further problems in a diabetic person.

A Spicy Twist

The sweet and woody aroma of Spicy Oolong will definitely uplift your mood. Spicy Oolong is sweet, woody and astringent in taste– a must-try!

So, after reading all these benefits, you might be interested in trying out Spicy Oolong by yourself. If so, you can order a trial pack for starters, or you can take that leap of faith and order the 30-day pack. Either way, make sure to let us know how you liked it.

Want to stick to black tea, but also try something new? Try the traditional British brew Earl Grey. If you like exploring new and exciting brews, check out 7 Reasons To Try Rooibos Tea. Stay safe and stay healthy!

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Red Rooibos Tea – Just Rooibos, or Something More?

Focused shot of a glass cup filled with Rooibos Tea with a teabag in it.

Have you ever tried Hibiscus tea? What about Rooibos tea? Whatever your answer might be, this crimson delight is something worth trying. Red Rooibos Tea is a tisane that has two ingredients– beautiful hibiscus flower petals and strong yet delightful Rooibos Tea leaves. Being completely caffeine-free, Red Rooibos Tea gives off an incredibly smooth and gentle aroma. But apart from the sweet, delicate and earthy flavour, Red Rooibos Tea also has a lot of health benefits to offer. We are going to dive deeper into each ingredient and find out how it is good for us. Let’s begin.

Hibiscus Flower Petals

Photo created by azerbaijan_stockers – www.freepik.com

People often use hibiscus tea as a medicinal tea, despite having a great flavour profile. Traditionally, African countries use hibiscus tea to treat heart disease, decrease body temperature, and soothe a sore throat. Building upon the historical significance, modern science has also done quite a lot of research on hibiscus. This caffeine-free and calorie-free (not if you add sugar or honey) beverage offers a surfeit of health benefits.

Hibiscus may help with Weight Control

Most of us struggle with weight issues in our daily lives. Including Hibiscus in our drinks such as tea can help in controlling our body weight.  Today, obesity is one of the most underrated medical conditions in our society. It is extremely dangerous and can lead to other diseases including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. 

Studies have shown that the extract of the Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) flower can help in weight management by regulating our body’s metabolism. Along with the right exercises, this can help you in maintaining a healthy body.   

A study conducted on 36 overweight people had the participants divided into two groups- one was given hibiscus extract and the control group took a placebo. After 12 weeks, the hibiscus extract reduced their body fat, body weight, hip-to-waist ratio, and body mass index.  

Another study, done on obese mice, reported a reduction in their body weight after 60 days of regular administration of hibiscus extract.  Besides regular exercise and a balanced diet, hibiscus tea can prove essential in managing body weight.

Hibiscus may help control Blood Pressure

Blood pressure can be a very serious problem if ignored. Hypertension can cause severe stroke, and can even be fatal. Preventing such a disastrous condition is crucial to our health. Over time, high blood pressure can weaken the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease. 

According to some results shown in a study, hibiscus is shown to reduce both systolic (SBP) and diastolic(DBP) blood pressure. In a study done with 65 people having high blood pressure, the subjects were divided into two groups. The experimental group was given hibiscus tea and the control group was given a placebo. 

After 6 weeks, the people who had hibiscus tea showed a significant decrease in their systolic blood pressure, compared to the control group. Therefore hibiscus tea may help in maintaining proper blood pressure naturally, paving the way to a risk-free life.

May give you a Healthy Heart 

The importance of monitoring your cholesterol levels is exponentially great. We must be extremely aware of the health choices we make while choosing what we consume in our daily lives. Hibiscus may help in lowering the fat levels in our blood. There is plenty of research on the subject to support this.

By reducing the cholesterol metabolism in our body, a study suggests that Hibiscus has pharmacological properties that may prevent cardiovascular diseases, which minimizes the risk factors, giving us a healthy heart.

In a study, 60 diabetic people were divided into two groups- one was given hibiscus tea and the other one drank black tea. After one month of regular consumption, those who drank hibiscus tea reported decreased levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.   

Researchers at PubMed conducted another study with subjects suffering from metabolic syndrome. They administered a daily dose of 100 mg of hibiscus extract to the subjects, for one month. The researchers observed that the extract decreased total cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol).

Hibiscus can be an Anti-Depressant

Mental health is very serious and we often tend to ignore it. Our fast-paced lives can be stressful, and if we don’t do anything about it, we end up suffering. 

Manifestly, those who suffer from a major mental illness need to consult a therapist as their top priority. According to a study, the extract of hibiscus has shown antidepressant-like properties. Also, it did not have any sedative properties, that modern antidepressants usually have.

Hibiscus is Anti-Diabetic

Diabetes is a chronic disease that destroys so many lives every day. The life of a diabetic person can be very troublesome, and therefore a refreshing drink that may relieve some of those problems can help a lot! As per research, the powder of the hibiscus flower can reduce glucose levels and improve lipid profile in our body, therefore it may improve the condition of some diabetic patients.

Hibiscus is also Antipyretic

Fevers and coughs are two of the most common ailments that almost anyone can contract these days. While taking an antibiotic seems like the best solution, but taking medicines regularly is not good for our bodies.  We must incorporate healthy food choices into our lifestyles to prevent them from happening in the first place. 

According to a study, the Hibiscus flowers have properties shown to help in bronchitis and relieve fevers and coughs. So next time you catch a fever, making a nice beverage containing Hibiscus just might help you get through it. 

Hibiscus is Full of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that are very essential to our bodies. They protect us from the cellular damage caused by free radicals, which often leads to oxidative stress. If not controlled, it paves the way for chronic diseases such as heart conditions, diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Oxidative stress also contributes to faster ageing. 

Hibiscus tea is rich in powerful antioxidants, therefore it helps prevent the damage and diseases that the free radicals can cause. There are many other studies to find more about the antioxidant activity of hibiscus. Scientists in a study used hibiscus extract on rats to examine its antioxidant activity. They observed that the extract increased the number of antioxidant enzymes and reduced the damage caused by free radicals by up to 92%.  

Another study conducted on rats delivered similar results. It was found that different parts of the hibiscus plant, such as the leaves, possess potent antioxidant properties. There is still a lot of room for human-based research done on hibiscus.

Hibiscus May Promote Liver Health

Needless to say, the liver is one of the most crucial organs of the human body. It secretes bile juice, excretes waste products, and metabolizes fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Maintaining proper liver health is very important, and studies suggest that hibiscus may help keep it working efficiently.

A study conducted on overweight people revealed that administering hibiscus extract for 12 weeks improved their liver steatosis, a medical term for fatty liver disease.  If not treated, the extreme buildup of fat can lead to liver failure.

Another study, conducted on hamsters, revealed that hibiscus extract prevented potential damage-causing markers in the liver. This reduction of liver damage markers indicates the protective nature of the hibiscus flower.  

In another study, the administration of hibiscus extract in rats resulted in a 65% increase in the drug-detoxifying enzymes that are present in the liver. Having hibiscus tea regularly could protect your liver against fatty liver disease and detoxify it as well.

May Help Prevent Cancer

Cancer is a leading cause of death. The uncontrollable division of cancer cells can result in tumours and damage to the immune system that can be fatal. The best way to deal with it is to try and prevent it. Hibiscus contains compounds such as polyphenols, that are helpful in the prevention of cancer.

Many lab studies have examined the potential effect of hibiscus extract on cancer cells. In a test-tube study, scientists suggested that hibiscus extract showed the ability to reduce the motility and invasiveness of two different types of cancers.  

Another study revealed that hibiscus leaf extract helped prevent the spreading of prostate cancer cells in humans. Hibiscus extract has shown the ability to inhibit the growth of stomach cancer cells by almost 52% in other studies.  (1)

Let’s move on to our other ingredient– Rooibos Tea.

What is South African Rooibos?

Rooibos belongs to the Fabaceae family of plants. It grows in South Africa, and the name ‘Rooibos’ means “red bush”. The leaves of the Rooibos plant are used in making herbal teas. Rooibos tea has gained international popularity since the 2000s, and now everyone is enjoying the earthy, nutty taste and the warm woody notes in its aroma. 

What makes Rooibos tea Special?

Widely known across the world, the South African Rooibos tea possesses various health benefits. It is also available as South African Rooibos Tea Bags.

Focused shot of a spoonful of rooibos tea leaves.
Photo by TeaCora Rooibos on Unsplash

Rooibos helps in Weight loss 

Many of us struggle with weight issues. In India, abdominal obesity is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVDs). The problem is serious, and we must act upon it ASAP. But how do we do that? Well, the best way is to combat it naturally- that is, by having a proper diet and regular exercise. Rooibos can help here.

Research has suggested that Rooibos tea may help in managing weight issues. Rooibos tea contains a rich complement of polyphenols, including flavonoids, which directly affect the ability to combat obesity. A study showed that Rooibos tea in soluble form inhibited the process called adipogenesis (formation of fat or fatty tissue). It also affected and improved metabolism.

So, just by sipping tea, you would be taking care of your weight and having a great time as well.

Rooibos Tea helps in reducing Insomnia

Caffeine might help you stay alert, attentive, and energetic throughout the day, but an excess of it can have a bad effect on your sleep and your health in general. Completely free of caffeine, Rooibos tea helps to put you to sleep- making it an excellent alternative to coffee.

Apart from zero caffeine, Rooibos tea also has a low amount of Tannins, a compound that interferes with the absorption of certain nutrients, such as iron. This is even more useful in treating insomnia and having a good night’s sleep.

Rooibos Tea helps relieve Headaches

Headaches are just plain annoying. The worst part is, we can’t just be popping pills all the time, as that’s not healthy in the long run. A natural way of dealing with headaches is consuming Rooibos. Apart from the other health benefits associated with Rooibos tea, its ability to soothe headaches often goes unnoticed. You can enjoy this caffeine-free beverage before sleep without hindering the quality of your sleep at all.

Having a cup of Rooibos tea before sleep helps you relax and relieves all the built-up tension you might have. By normalizing your sleeping patterns, Rooibos prevents any potential headaches or irritability caused by sleeplessness.

South African Rooibos Tea may boost your Immune System

Our immune system is like the backbone of our health- apart from the actual backbone, which is also the backbone of our health (sorry for the bad attempt at humour). Therefore, the best way of preventing diseases and being healthy in general is to boost our immune system naturally. Research has suggested that Rooibos tea may help in improving the immune system of your body. 

In a Japanese study conducted in immune-suppressed rats, researchers found that introducing a water-soluble fraction of Rooibos tea restored the immune function of the rats. The researchers also indicated that these properties might hold significant potential for future research into the immune-boosting properties of Rooibos tea. Maybe there’s more to it than meets the eye?

Rooibos tea has a lot of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that help protect our bodies from the cellular damage caused by free radicals. These are harmful molecules that might cause oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress can lead to several chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Foods rich in antioxidants are very useful in preventing chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress. As mentioned above, oxidative stress is a medical condition. The free radicals that damage our skin can result in oxidative stress.

Apart from preventing oxidative stress, the long-term benefits of antioxidants may include the prevention of major ailments such as heart disease. 

In a study with 15 people as subjects, red and green variants of Rooibos tea increased the blood levels of antioxidants by 2.9% and 6.6% respectively. 

Rooibos is a great anti-Inflammation agent

Inflammation is a protection mechanism of our body, which activates when we are injured. This process can be harmful if it does not stop for a long time. In tests done in test tubes and on living beings, Rooibos has shown anti-inflammatory properties. 

Rooibos tea may have anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for our health. 

A Japanese study done on rats with colitis (open sores in the colon) indicated that Rooibos tea could reduce inflammation via increased antioxidant activity. Rooibos tea is recommended as a safe and useful way to reduce oxidative stress, reducing the damage caused to the DNA by oxidation. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Rooibos are interlinked.

Red Rooibos is also anti-Diabetic

Living with diabetes can be very difficult. Your food options are limited, and you always have to keep the right foods with you. Well, you don’t have to worry about Rooibos. In fact, Rooibos is actually helpful in this scenario.

The antioxidant called aspalathin has significant antidiabetic activity. Rooibos tea is the only natural source of aspalathin. A study suggested that Rooibos tea affected glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetes. By stimulating glucose uptake in muscle tissues and insulin secretion from pancreatic beta-cells, it could benefit type 2 diabetics. Another study found that Rooibos provides effective protection against oxidative stress in diabetic rats. 

Next time you sit with your diabetic friends, you won’t have to make a separate drink for them. You can all enjoy a cup of Rooibos.

A Red Rush of Health

With the combined goodness of Hibiscus flower petals and Rooibos tea, Red Rooibos Tea becomes a must-try for anyone who aspires to lead a healthy lifestyle. All these benefits are backed by reliable sources and years of research. So you can be carefree while shopping at Ono Teas. Go crazy!

If you have tried Full Petal Hibiscus or South African Rooibos, you will definitely enjoy Red Rooibos Tea (If you haven’t, then what’s the hold-up?). Of course, if you’re new, you can always try the trial pack, or if you trust us, you can take that leap of faith and order the 30-day pack. Check out other teas from our amazing range– I’m sure you’ll find Masala Tea really fascinating.

If you want to explore more teas, here’s another blog for you– Make Way For Minty Oolong. Happy shopping and cheers to your health!

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White Rose Tea– White Tea with a Flowery Punch

A book and various roses with a cup of rose tea placed on a saucer, all placed on a tablecloth

You might have heard of black tea, green tea, and several herbal teas as well… But have you ever heard of white tea? Yes, you read it correctly. White tea comes from the same plant as black and green tea– Camellia sinensis. It gets its name because when white tea leaves and buds are picked just before they are fully open, they’re covered in fine white hairs. White tea has similar health benefits to green and black tea but is unique in its aroma and flavour. When you add rose petals to the mix, you get White Rose Tea.

Rose Petals in Tea?

White Rose may not be your everyday conventional tea, but it can give even better results. With the various benefits of white tea, the rose petals add even more benefits. But there’s more. Rose petals grant light grassy notes and an amazing rose fragrance to the White Rose Tea. Not just the aroma, but you can see the influence in the taste as well. The White Rose Tea has floral notes and a very creamy texture to it. 

So what are these benefits that we are talking about? Let’s find out. 

White Tea Leaves

White Tea Helps With Weight Management

Apart from green tea, white tea may also help in managing weight and burning fat. Caffeine and catechins like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are present in both green and white teas in the same amount. They are linked to each other and may impact body weight.

In a test-tube study, researchers found that white tea extract can stimulate fat breakdown and prevent new fat cells from being formed. EGCG is mainly responsible for this outcome. 

Another study indicated that white tea may help boost your metabolism by around 4–5%.

Boosting your metabolism helps burn fat faster, and a 4-5% boost may be equal to 70–100 calories per day.

Prevents Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the major killer diseases around the world. With increasing cases of obesity and unhealthy lifestyles, the risk of heart disease is rapidly growing. Polyphenols present in white tea may help prevent or reduce the risk of heart disease.

A few studies have suggested that polyphenols may help in boosting immunity and relax the blood vessels. (1)(2)  

Another study indicated that polyphenols may prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol (LDL) which leads to heart disease. A study conducted with human subjects found that three cups or more of tea per day resulted in a 21% lower risk of heart disease in the subjects. 

White Tea Improves Oral Health

Green tea is already popular for improving oral hygiene, but white tea also has some benefits. Catechins are known for inhibiting bacterial growth, lowering the risk of oral infections.

White tea does not contain any tannins that cause teeth to stain. Researchers conducted a study to measure the antiplaque efficacy of a mouthwash containing white tea. 

A mouthwash containing white tea inhibits plaque formation but is not as good as a chlorhexidine mouthwash. 

White tea also displayed antibacterial activity against Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) in vitro at 1% concentration.

White Tea is Filled With Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that reduce or prevent the chance of oxidative stress and hence they prevent chronic diseases like heart conditions. The polyphenols present in white tea act as antioxidants for your body. 

Research suggests that white tea might be as good as green tea in fighting the damage caused by free radicals. These are two of the best teas to counter oxidation and prevent oxidative stress. Researchers also say that white tea extract can help protect animal nerve cells against damage caused by hydrogen peroxide, a type of free radical.

Another test-tube study revealed that white tea powder helps reduce the inflammation caused by free radicals in human skin cells. 

Anti-Diabetic Property

Diabetes is extremely common and very hard to live with. It cannot be cured and can only be prevented. Due to high levels of sugar in the bloodstream, people with diabetes stop responding to insulin. This is known as insulin resistance.

Researchers reported that white tea polyphenols may lower the risk of insulin resistance, hence preventing diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic disease. Other studies have revealed that EGCG and other polyphenols found in white tea may enhance the effectiveness of insulin and prevent high blood sugar levels.

A review of a huge number of studies with over 1,100 people showed results that indicate the ability of polyphenols to significantly reduce blood sugar and insulin levels.

So, What about Rose Petals?

Pink Rose Petals and a bottle of Rose Oil Placed on a wooden coaster with white background.
Rose Petals and Essential Oil
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

Undoubtedly the most famous symbol of love, rose petals provide so much more than just appreciation for love. 

Rose Petals help Smoothen the Respiratory System.

Roses have cultural and medicinal significance. All roses are edible, and therefore you can make an aromatic herbal beverage by using them. They may help smoothen your respiratory system from the inside. 

In a lab test, the researchers found that ethanolic and aqueous extracts of the rose plant significantly reduced the number of coughs induced by citric acid in guinea pigs. The aqueous, ethyl acetate and n-butanol fractions of the Damask rose also had a relaxant effect on the tracheal smooth muscle of guinea pigs. 

Rose may help Reduce Stress.

Today, almost every one of us experiences stressful situations. It’s hard to cope with it, and we should take care of our loved ones if they ever feel stressed out. A simple, homemade, and natural way of handling stress is to consume some freshly brewed Rose Tea.

People have used roses for their therapeutic properties for a long time. Rose oil may help in reducing nervous stress and tension. 

In a study conducted on male mice under chronic stress, researchers aimed to investigate the neuropsychological effects of a water-soluble extract of French rose. The results indicated that french rose extract exerted an anti-stress effect on the mice subjected to chronic stress. 

Rose Helps the Central Nervous System.

The central nervous system (CNS) controls most functions of your body and mind. It has three broad functions: sensory input, information processing, and motor output. The CNS is literally the backbone of your health. Pun intended.

Apart from the antidepressant and antianxiety effects, the ethanolic extract of the flowering tops of Damask rose has other properties as well. Rose possesses a potent hypnotic activity on the central nervous system in mice. The scientists observed that the sleeping times of the mice increased. This extract also shows anticonvulsant and analgesic effects and promotes nerve growth in mice.

Rose is Anti-Diabetic.

People suffering from diabetes have it tough. The only way to combat diabetes is to either prevent it or modify our lifestyle to deal with the damage caused. Rose may help here. Research suggests that Damask rose exerts an anti-diabetic effect on our body.

In a study, researchers orally administered some amount of methanol extract of Damask rose in normal and diabetic rats. As a result, significantly decreased blood glucose after maltose loading was observed.

Also, Damask rose was identified as a potent inhibitor of the α-glucosidase enzyme, which can reduce the postprandial glucose level in the blood. The polyphenols present in rose tea may help in the prevention of type-2 diabetes.

Rose is also Anti-Ageing.

We often see rosewater as a prominent component in most beauty products. This is mainly due to the anti-ageing properties. Rose is rich in antioxidants. These are the compounds that protect our cells from the damage caused by free radicals.

Free radicals cause damage on a cellular level, which might result in oxidative stress, which can cause premature ageing issues. Research suggests that the anti-ageing properties of rose-flower extract might be due to its antioxidant activity. 

Rose can Alleviate Menstrual Cramps.

Almost 50% of women suffer from menstrual pains. Some of them even experience headaches, diarrhoea, fatigue, and vomiting during their menstruation period. Rose tea has been used in Chinese medicine as a traditional remedy for menstrual pains.

In a Taiwanese study, researchers gave 2 cups of rose tea to 130 teenagers daily for 12 days. They did this for a duration of 6 menstrual cycles. Compared to the control group, those given the tea reported less menstrual pain and a better mental health condition.

White Rose Tea: A Pure and Lovely Concoction

All these benefits in just a cup of tea! But remember, these benefits will only be noticeable when these teas are consumed for a proper amount of time and regularly. White Rose Tea is low in caffeine, so start sipping without worries!

If you are intrigued by the White Rose Tea, you can order it right away. Try out the trial pack first, and I’m sure you’ll go for the 30-day Pack next. If you would like to stick to the basics, buy the Classic Green Tea. Or, if you want something extra with it, try Chamomile Green Tea.

If you find this blog interesting, check out our other blog Moroccan Mint Tea: A Powerful Minty Duo.