Are people who drink herbal teas healthier?

December 28, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world after water. While many associate the term 'tea' with leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant, a vast and popular category of beverages known as herbal teas—or tisanes—are made from an array of different dried herbs, fruits, and spices. The question remains: does drinking these herbal infusions truly make you healthier?

Quick Summary

This article explores the health impacts of drinking herbal teas, analyzing the benefits derived from their bioactive compounds, potential risks, and how they compare to other beverages.

Key Points

Antioxidant Power: Herbal teas are rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids that fight cellular damage and reduce inflammation.
Cardiovascular Support: Specific teas, including hibiscus and rooibos, have been linked to lowered blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels.
Digestive Aid: Teas like peppermint, ginger, and fennel can effectively soothe digestive issues such as bloating, nausea, and indigestion.
Weight Management: Green tea, oolong tea, and peppermint tea can assist with weight management by boosting metabolism and curbing appetite.
Not a Medical Replacement: Herbal teas should complement, not replace, medical treatments; always consult a doctor, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are on medication.
Prioritize Quality and Moderation: The benefits depend on the quality of the herbs and consistency of preparation; excessive consumption or improper sourcing carries risks.

The Scientific Evidence Behind Herbal Tea's Health Claims

For centuries, herbal teas have been used in traditional medicine for their purported health benefits. Modern science has begun to investigate and validate many of these long-held beliefs, focusing on the bioactive compounds within various herbs. However, it is important to distinguish between general wellness support and concrete medical treatment. Herbal teas are not a substitute for conventional medicine but can be a valuable part of a holistic, healthy lifestyle.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Many herbal teas are rich in potent antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and other phytonutrients. These compounds help combat oxidative stress, an imbalance caused by free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Hibiscus Tea: Rich in anthocyanins, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Green Tea: Contains catechins like EGCG, which are powerful antioxidants that support heart health and metabolism.
Chamomile Tea: A source of flavonoids and other bioactive phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginger Tea: Contains nearly 40 antioxidant compounds that fight inflammation and relieve pain.

Benefits for Cardiovascular Health

Several herbal teas offer promising benefits for the heart and circulatory system. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease, and some infusions may help manage these conditions.

Hibiscus Tea: Acts as a natural diuretic, relaxing blood vessels to help reduce blood pressure.
Rooibos Tea: Contains antioxidants like aspalathin, which can help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and increase "good" HDL cholesterol.
Hawthorn Berry Tea: Can help dilate blood vessels, improving circulation.

Support for Digestive and Gut Health

Digestive issues are a common ailment, and many herbal teas have been traditionally used to soothe the stomach and support gut health.

Peppermint Tea: Menthol can relax the muscles of the digestive tract, which helps relieve bloating, cramping, and gas.
Ginger Tea: A traditional remedy for nausea, bloating, and indigestion that stimulates gastric movement.
Fennel Tea: Aids digestion by soothing bloating and mild constipation.

Role in Weight Management

While not a magic solution, certain teas can support weight management efforts when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

Green Tea: The catechins and caffeine in green tea can boost metabolism and enhance fat oxidation.
Peppermint Tea: May help to curb appetite and reduce cravings.
Oolong Tea: Can improve metabolism and fat oxidation.

Potential Risks and Precautions

Despite the benefits, not all herbal teas are created equal, and some come with risks. The concentration of active ingredients in herbal infusions is not standardized, unlike prescription medications.


**	Risk Category	Explanation	Example Herbs	Precautions
Drug Interactions	Some compounds can interfere with prescription medications.	Ginger (anticoagulants), Hibiscus (diuretics)	Always consult a doctor if on medication.
Toxicity	Certain herbs can be toxic, especially in high doses or if improperly identified.	Coumarin-containing teas (liver issues)	Research all ingredients thoroughly.
Contamination	Teas can absorb contaminants like heavy metals from the soil.	Specific plant varieties	Buy from reputable, organic sources.
Pregnancy/Nursing	The effects of many herbs on pregnancy are not well-studied.	Varies widely by herb	Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Allergies	Individuals may have allergic reactions to certain plants.	Chamomile (related to ragweed), etc.	Check for known allergens.

Making an Informed Choice

To maximize the health benefits and minimize risks, consider the source and quality of your herbal tea. High-quality loose-leaf teas are often superior to tea bags, as they contain whole leaves with a higher concentration of bioactive compounds. Remember that the health effects of herbal tea depend heavily on the specific ingredients and a consistent preparation method. By opting for naturally caffeine-free, low-calorie infusions over sugary drinks, you are already making a healthier choice. For specific conditions or medication concerns, a healthcare provider can provide personalized advice.

Conclusion: So, are people who drink herbal teas healthier?

While not a cure-all, the answer is often a qualified 'yes.' People who regularly choose herbal teas over less healthy beverages are likely to experience some health benefits. These advantages come from the teas' antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and specific therapeutic properties that can support everything from heart health to digestion. The key is mindful consumption, informed by an understanding of the specific herbs and their effects. By viewing herbal teas as a supportive, healthy dietary component rather than a miraculous remedy, drinkers can leverage their benefits as part of a healthier, more holistic lifestyle.

Learn More About Tea and Your Health

For more in-depth information on the health benefits of various types of tea, you can read the National Institutes of Health publication: Tea and Health: Studies in Humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Herbal tea, also known as a tisane, is an infusion made from dried herbs, spices, flowers, or fruits. Regular tea (green, black, oolong) is brewed from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant and contains caffeine.

Yes, opting for unsweetened herbal teas is generally a healthier choice than drinking sugary, high-calorie beverages like soda. However, some herbal teas may have specific side effects or interact with medications.

While herbal teas can offer supportive health benefits, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. For serious conditions, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and care.

Most herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, but it's important to check the ingredients. Some blends may contain herbs that naturally have caffeine, so if you are sensitive, always confirm the contents.

Potential risks include drug interactions with certain medications, contamination from heavy metals or pesticides, and potential toxicity from excessive amounts or specific herbs. It is also possible to have allergic reactions.

Some research suggests that adding milk, especially higher-fat varieties, may reduce the antioxidant capacity of tea. The proteins in milk can bind to flavonoids, potentially deactivating some of their benefits.

Purchase high-quality, organic teas from reputable brands to minimize the risk of pesticide or heavy metal contamination. For therapeutic purposes, consult a professional knowledgeable in herbs to ensure you are selecting the right variety and dosage.