I consider myself indirectly British. I often speak in a British accent and my Mom was born outside of London, so technically I am of English decent. I may not have the papers to back it up, but I do have a passport stamp from England therefore you should assume I know a thing or two about the fine country. In honor of Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee, her 60th anniversary on the throne, I thought it would be appropriate to enlighten you on one of the most famous traditions in England, tea.

Tea has endless health benefits, not to mention hardly any calories, and is one of the best ways to start and end the day. While the British enjoy a good tea time, Americans are always too busy to take time out of their day to just relax. Most often, we drink tea to unwind in the evening, although you should consider many types of tea to become a part of your daily regime. Here are a few great ones and the benefits you should know about.

Green Tea



photo by vordichtung

From cancer and heart disease to lowering cholesterol and preventing diabetes, Green Tea’s powerful antioxidants have an endless amount of benefits. Studies have shown Green Tea helps maintain and even reduce your weight. Green Tea is powerful and better yet natural stuff, so having a dose daily is highly recommended.

Peppermint



photo by brotherm

If you want to think more clearly and have more (natural) energy, then peppermint tea is just for you. Its therapeutic properties not only make your senses go wild, but peppermint tea can ease your stomach, help improve digestion, fight bad breath, and clear congestion. Feel less stressed and more zen just by sipping a cup of peppermint tea.

Chamomile



photo by abbyladybug

Get more rest and calm your nerves with a cup of chamomile. Used as an ancient remedy by the Egyptians, chamomile is known as the cure-all tea, said to relieve muscle soreness, boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and alleviate back pain. Try the Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime Vanilla Chamomile. It is on point.

Earl Grey


photo by tobym

The most popular in the United Kingdom, earl grey is a black tea said to help relieve stress, fight insomnia and anxiety and fight inflammation. Earl grey is a great energy booster and is noted to help form healthy bones and teeth.