The lockdown gave the author time to experiment with different kinds of flower and herbal teas
I will begin with the etymology of Swastha, the Sanskrit word for health and well-being. It is a compound word, combining, Swa, and Stha. So, when the two are placed together, it literally translates into:
Yaha janah swasmin stithah, Saha swastha
Quite literally, this means that one who is established within oneself, that person is healthy.
Like the majority of Sanskrit words, the entire philosophy of the word is woven in its root itself. For, one who is established within oneself, directly points to being in touch with one’s deeper self. And the one who’s in touch with one’s deeper self, cannot be affected by the influence of outer elements, however chaotic they may be. Such a person, therefore, naturally enjoys a state of robustness.
With this in mind, I turned my attention to foods and drinks that promoted well-being. On top of my list were floral and fruit teas. The act of brewing and drinking tea is intimately connected to the upliftment of the spirit. Isn’t that the reason why tea is called the perfect, pick-me-up drink that most of us turn to, first thing in the morning?
While teas like jasmine and butterfly pea are natural antioxidants and improve memory, both rose and hibiscus help alleviate the symptoms of menopause. Rose is also considered anti-ageing, just like butterfly pea flower. Hibiscus has another added benefit – it is used to manage weight.
Lavender and mint together help regulate all kinds of digestive problems, right from nausea to gas. Both are also pain-relievers. Lavender is known to be helpful in curing toothaches as well.
Lemongrass not only helps ease bloating after a bout of gourmandise, but it also boosts metabolism, and burns fat. And, as you all know, the good old Chamomile might just be the thing to fix your sleep disorders.
I should not forget to mention Rosemary, one my favourite herbs and a quality add-on with most tea-combos. Apart from the taste factor, Rosemary comes armed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which are known to help boost the immune system and improve blood circulation.
And who can forget the properties of tulsi leaves? Tulsi tea is high in antioxidants and has become so popular that it sometimes outsells regular tea in tea shops!
I guess, this pause provided by Covid-19 has served to be a good time to s-tea-p ourselves in natural herbs, edible plants, and flowers in our own neighbourhood, and make them a conscious part of our sense of ‘well-being’.
