I have been a convert to green tea for many a year now and there is a wonderful array of flavours out there to try. My favourites are lemon in the morning and Chai for an afternoon pick me up.

However, there is a first time for everything and today was the turn of Camomile Tea. This was courtesy of the last hotel room I stayed in, I do like to bring home the unused sachets to keep in my handbag or to add to my tea collection in case anyone ever asks for a cup of something different.

I’m not sure how I’ve managed to avoid it for so long, I guess I’m usually a creature of habit and I just didn’t fancy the idea of it.  Today though, I felt in need of something different and it turns out Camomile Tea is quite pleasant to drink and after researching what its good for, it turns out it has a multitude of skin and health benefits, such as:-

• has anti-flammatory and antioxidant properties
• boosts your immune system
• relieves menstrual discomfort
• relieves stress
• induces sleep
• help manage diabetes by lowering blood sugar
• help ease stomach disorders and soothes digestive distress
• improves appearance and strength of hair

plus its also caffeine free!

A word of caution: Due to the powerful nature of the compounds and chemicals found in chamomile, caution is advised for pregnant women as it increases the risk of miscarriage. Secondly, many people are allergic to ragweed, so a regular use of chamomile, particularly in topical applications, can worsen symptoms. Before making chamomile tea a regular part of your health regimen, it is best to speak to your doctor.

Further studies have shown that Camomile tea was linked with a 29% lower risk of early death in women. Read more about that here: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3090937/Is-chamomile-tea-secret-long-life-Herbal-brew-slash-risk-early-death.html#ixzz54AUh8vrv

This evening I am going to try Peppermint which has the ability to improve digestion, reduce pain, and eliminate inflammation. It relaxes the body and mind, cures bad breath, aids in weight loss and boosts the immune system.

It’s a whole new world and one I very much look forward to exploring.