Winter Warmth in a Tea Cup

It's that time of year where everyone consumes way too much tea to keep warm and cosy. I don't see a problem in an extra cup of tea or two a day - actually I think a good cup of my personal favourite, Earl Grey, can do wonders to your mood, stomach and overall health. It's also known to have a calming effect on people under stress or anxiety. But are the real health benefits of Earl Grey tea drinking?

Here are some interesting facts about the lovely brew: 

• Named after Earl Charles Grey, Britain's Prime Minister in the 1800s, it is a blend of Indian and Ceylon teas infused with the flavor of bergamot, a small citrus fruit from Asia now cultivated in Italy. 
• Earl Grey is packed with antioxidants that act as an immune boosting enhancer and help fight off infections. Great for the winter season to keep those nasty bugs at bay.
  
• It is also know to have a soothing effect on your stomach and aid digestion. So a cuppa after every meal doesn't sound bad after all? 
• Natural oil of Bergamot in Earl Grey tea may actually help people who suffer from various psychological medical conditions such as anxiety, stress or depression. 

Although this tea specialty is my most loved, bringing me right back to my childhood memories of sitting on my parents bed in the mornings sipping tea out of delicate tea cups before school, I believe a good tea drinking combination of herbals and non-cafeine teas are best for your health. Chamomile for example is great at night to help ease into a good nights sleep and green tea is also great for a slimming diet!

[Images courtesy of Pinterest] [Resource: Daily mail]