5 Ingredients That Will Turn Your Tea into a "Health Elixir"

Tea is not just a warming drink – it's a true source of health benefits. But its properties can be enhanced with the addition of a few simple, accessible ingredients.

Mint

Chef and dietitian Jackie Newgent shared that mint helps you relax and reduces stress and anxiety. Its aroma has a calming effect on the nervous system.

It also stimulates bile secretion and reduces intestinal spasms. This helps with bloating, stomach heaviness, or nausea. Additionally, the essential oils in mint – especially menthol – help clear the airways and ease breathing during colds or allergies.

Other studies have shown that menthol in mint has a soothing effect that can help reduce stress.

Fruits

The sweetness of fruit is far from their only benefit. Infusing tea with fruit also adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

All fruits contribute a high amount of antioxidants – especially seasonal ones at their peak of ripeness, nutritional value, and flavor. The best combinations include blueberries with black tea, peaches with white tea, and mango with green tea.

Fruit aromas can also improve mood, reduce stress, and promote relaxation (such as mint with lemon or apple with cinnamon).

Citrus Juice or Zest

Both orange and lemon zest, as well as their juices, not only enhance the flavor of tea but also have potential health benefits. Adding lemon juice to a cup of tea provides the body with vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

Citrus peels also offer polyphenols, vitamin C, and a pleasant aroma.

Studies have linked citrus consumption to a reduced risk of lung cancer and to neurological benefits, thanks to citrus flavonoids.

Milk

Tea (especially black or green) contains tannins, which can irritate the stomach lining. Milk reduces this effect by coating the stomach and making the drink gentler.

Milk also softens the taste of tea, especially if it's very strong or astringent.

Milk is rich in nutrients: protein, calcium, and B vitamins – slightly increasing the drink's nutritional value.

According to research, milk not only reduces the bitterness of tea but may also lessen its impact on teeth.

Ginger

Ginger tea is a popular remedy for improving digestion. Even if you don't have a ginger tea bag, adding a bit of ginger powder, extract, or fresh ginger can offer health benefits.

The best option is tea infused with ginger to potentially ease gastrointestinal issues.

Ginger also has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties.

Moreover, if you're feeling nauseous, a cup of ginger tea may help alleviate symptoms. Ginger in tea can also improve digestion, prevent stomach upset, and reduce vomiting.