There are several wellness activities such as sipping herbal tea, movement therapy, and meditation that can improve your overall well-being. However, they each have unique benefits and should not be compared as one being better than the other. 

Always discuss your wellness goals and plans with primary care provider prior to adding supplements or exercises to your self-care practice, especially if you are being treated for chronic medical or mental health condition.

Drinking herbal tea has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, which can help reduce stress and anxiety (1). It also contains antioxidants that can boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, promote cardiovascular health, and even prevent the development of certain cancers (2).

Movement therapy, on the other hand, has numerous physical and mental health benefits. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, improve your mood, and boost your energy levels 1. I prefer movement therapy over exercise because exercise has a constricted feel it whereas movement therapy allows you to be free and engage in activity that is fun or enjoyable to you. 

Meditation is a mindfulness practice that can help you reduce stress, improve your focus, and increase your self-awareness 1. It has also been shown to have a positive impact on mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression (1).

In conclusion, each of these practices has its own unique benefits, and incorporating all three into your daily routine can help you achieve optimal health and wellness.

The amount of herbal tea you should drink per day depends on the type of tea and your individual health needs. Some herbal teas, such as chamomile, ginger, and peppermint, are generally considered safe to consume in moderate amounts 12. However, other herbal teas may have side effects or interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming them regularly (3).

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended that adults consume no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to 4 cups of coffee or 10 cups of black tea (4). 

However, herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, so this guideline does not apply to them. In terms of daily intake, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It’s best to start with small amounts and gradually increase your intake as your body adjusts. A good starting point is to consume 1-2 cups of herbal tea per day and monitor how your body responds (4). If you experience any adverse effects, such as upset stomach, headache, or allergic reaction, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

If you're in need of a custom blend or in search of delicious non-caffeinated herbal tea, visit Aligned & Well Apothecary! 

*All information posted on this website is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to be or replace medical advice.*

Sources:

1. Gilbert, Natasha. (2019) The science of tea’s mood-altering magic (nature.com)

2. Harvard Health Publishing: Harvard Medical School. (2021). The health benefits of 3 herbal teas - Harvard Health

3. Leech, Joe. (2023)10 Healthy Herbal Teas You Should Try (healthline.com)

4. Daniel (2023) Can You Drink Too Much Herbal Tea? (And What Happens?) (letsdrinktea.com)