Top Healthiest Teas to Drink: Herbal & Leaf Tea Benefits for Digestion, Weight Loss, and Immunity
Drinking both true leaf tea and herbal teas offers a wide range of scientifically supported health benefits. Numerous studies have shown that certain teas can help with blood cleansing, weight management, digestive health, and lowering blood pressure. Many teas—both herbal and Camellia sinensis–based—also help the body combat oxidative stress, a condition that occurs when harmful free radicals overwhelm the body’s natural defenses.
Oxidative stress can damage cells and contribute to aging, inflammation, and chronic disease. Fortunately, many teas are naturally rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and restore balance within the body. Beyond antioxidant support, teas can also calm the nervous system, boost immunity, and support heart and metabolic health. Below are some of the healthiest teas to incorporate into your daily routine.
Ginger Tea (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger tea is a warming herbal root tea originating in Southeast Asia and widely used in traditional Asian medicine. It is well known for supporting digestion, reducing heartburn, easing nausea, and promoting healthy bowel movements. Ginger also contains powerful anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants. Some studies suggest ginger may help protect brain cells and support cognitive health. Its flavor is spicy, warming, and slightly sweet.
Chamomile Tea (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal teas for relaxation and sleep. Used for centuries across Europe and Asia, chamomile acts as a gentle natural sedative, helping calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep. It also supports digestion, reduces inflammation, and may help strengthen the immune system. Chamomile has a mild, honey-like, bittersweet flavor.
Lemon Tea (Citrus limon)
Lemon tea, a refreshing fruit tea, is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It supports immune health, aids detoxification, promotes healthy digestion, and may assist in gentle blood cleansing. Lemon tea is often enjoyed both hot and iced for its bright, citrusy flavor.
Lemon Balm Tea (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon balm tea is a calming herbal tea from the mint family, traditionally used in European herbal medicine. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, supports sleep, and provides antioxidant protection. Lemon balm also supports cognitive function and digestion. Its flavor is light, citrusy, and gently minty.
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
Green tea is one of the most studied and celebrated leaf teas in the world. Originating in China thousands of years ago, green tea is rich in catechins, flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins, all of which contribute to its powerful antioxidant properties. Green tea supports heart health, weight management, metabolic balance, and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. Flavor profiles range from sweet and nutty to grassy, smoky, floral, or vegetal, depending on origin and processing.
Hibiscus Tea (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Hibiscus tea is a vibrant floral herbal tea known for its deep red color and tart, cranberry-like flavor. Studies suggest hibiscus tea may help lower blood pressure, support heart health, reduce inflammation, and aid weight management. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making it an excellent immune-supporting beverage.
Rooibos Tea (Aspalathus linearis)
Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea native to South Africa. Traditionally used as a substitute for black tea, rooibos is rich in minerals, antioxidants, and polyphenols. It supports weight balance, heart health, and skin health, and is gentle enough for evening consumption. Rooibos has a smooth, earthy, slightly sweet flavor.
Peppermint Tea (Mentha × piperita)
Peppermint tea is a refreshing herbal infusion widely used for digestive relief. It helps ease bloating, gas, nausea, and stomach discomfort, while also providing a cooling and invigorating effect. Peppermint tea is naturally caffeine-free and has a bright, cooling mint flavor.
Rosehip Tea (Rosa rugosa)
Rosehip tea is a nutrient-dense herbal tea made from the fruit of the rose plant. It is especially rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Rosehip tea supports immune health, heart health, digestion, joint comfort, and may aid in weight management. Its flavor is lightly tart and fruity.
Incorporating a variety of herbal and leaf teas into your daily routine is a simple, natural way to support overall wellness—from digestion and immunity to stress relief and antioxidant protection. Whether you prefer calming, energizing, or detoxifying teas, there is a health-enhancing tea for every lifestyle.