If you are responsible for the elderly care of an aging loved one, you might be looking for some new foods and drinks to introduce to them to break up the monotony, or you might even be looking for an all-natural way to help soothe some of their aches and pains.
If so, herbal teas could be exactly what you are looking for!
Herbal teas offer many benefits to seniors, and they are much better for them than regular black or green tea. While green tea is touted as being healthy, it (as well as other types of “regular” tea) contains caffeine and other additives that might not be well-tolerated by someone with a medical condition. Herbal teas, on the other hand, are all natural, and never contain caffeine, which can stimulate the nervous system or cause a racing heart. They can also help with things like circulation and gastrointestinal issues.
Here is a list of some of the best herbal teas for the elderly, along with the health benefits they offer:
Chamomile – Chamomile is one of the most popular herbal teas because it has so many health benefits. Brewed from flowers that are closely related to the daisy, chamomile tea helps to soothe both the body and the mind. It has long been recommended to helping soothe anxiety, depression, and stress, and it has even been shown to help relieve stomachaches and colds.
Eucalyptus – Eucalyptus tea can be terrific for elderly men and women suffering from respiratory problems. Eucalyptus, as you may know, has a very powerful scent, and can bring powerful relief from congestion and sinus trouble. It can also lower blood sugar, which can be great for diabetics.
Ginseng – Ginseng is a root that has been used for hundreds of years to treat a variety of ailments. This tea can boost one’s immune system and regulate one’s digestion. It has also been said to fight cancer.
Ginkgo– Ginkgo tea is full of antioxidants, and is great for stimulating blood flow. In addition to stimulating healthy circulation of blood throughout the body, it can also help to increase blood flow to the brain, keeping it healthy and vibrant.
Rosemary– Not many people have heard of rosemary tea, but it is actually a very powerful beverage. In addition to promoting circulation like ginkgo tea, it also contains antioxidants that can help to stave off Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Herbal teas can be a great alternative to coffee or other caffeinated beverages. They help to keep your elderly loved one hydrated, but as you can see from the list above, they also provide a whole host of other benefits that can keep your loved one healthier longer.
If you are interested in trying any of these herbal teas, you can find most of them in the tea section of your local grocery store. Alternatively, you can find recipes online to make your own herbal tea, which could be a great afternoon project for you and your elderly loved one!
Source: http://www.seniorlifestyle.com/herbal-tea-medical-uses/
