Whether soothing or energizing, herbal infusions offer a natural approach to warming the body, calming the mind and supporting vitality in the depths of winter. Here are six precious options that will help get you through the season smoothly.
Calming and Relaxing Infusions:
- Lemon Balm
This is particularly effective in combating anxiety disorders and irritability. Its mild sedative properties soothe the nervous system, reducing stress and mood swings. By promoting relaxation, it helps to dispel gloom and improves overall mood.
Contraindications: Lemon balm is generally very well tolerated. However, it is not recommended for people with thyroid disorders (especially hypothyroidism), as it can interfere with hormonal treatments.
- Chamomile
Chamomile herbal teas (especially Roman or German chamomile) are comforting. The main action of this plant is to promote relaxation and restful sleep, essential to combat exhaustion linked to the lack of light during the cold season. By improving the quality of a night’s rest, it contributes to better emotional balance during the day and helps reduce irritability.
Contraindications are very rare. People who are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed or chrysanthemums) may experience allergic reactions.
- Lavender and Peppermint
Acting on mood, nervous system and mental vitality, lavender and peppermint tea is particularly beneficial in countering seasonal low morale. Known for its calming properties, lavender helps reduce anxiety and promotes a state of relaxation conducive to emotional well-being.
More of a tonic, peppermint provides a feeling of freshness and mental clarity; it gently stimulates the mind, fights fatigue and helps dispel the heaviness often associated with a lack of light. Together, these two botanicals create an infusion that is both comforting and revitalizing.
Although lavender has few contraindications, peppermint is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended in cases of gastroesophageal reflux, gastric ulcers or gallstones. It is best to avoid this infusion in the evening for people who are sensitive to stimulation.
Invigorating and Energizing Infusions:
- Oats
It’s the flowers and part of the stem—and not the flakes—that are consumed in an infusion. Oats act as a tonic that strengthens the entire nervous system. It is ideal for combating chronic fatigue and low mood caused by prolonged stress, and it’s rich in B vitamins and minerals to help to regain energy.
Contraindications: It is well tolerated. However, people with celiac disease should make sure to use a product that is certified gluten-free.
- Ginger and Cinnamon
This combination is perfect for warming the body and stimulating the mind, thus combating apathy and lethargy. Ginger is a powerful stimulant that invigorates and improves circulation, while cinnamon provides a comforting flavour and has stimulating properties that help improve mood and fight fatigue.
Ginger herbal teas should be consumed with caution in case of anticoagulant treatment. Cinnamon is not recommended for liver problems, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or gastric ulcers, and should be consumed with caution during pregnancy.
- Ginseng
Asian ginseng (mainly the Panax ginseng variety) is a powerful adaptogen, i.e., a plant that helps the body to better manage physical and emotional stress. It is particularly effective in combating intense fatigue, lack of vitality while stimulating concentration and energy, especially during periods of winter blues.
Contraindications: Ginseng has significant restrictions. It is contraindicated in cases of high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, chronic insomnia or severe anxiety. It interacts strongly with blood thinners and some antidepressants. It is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.