Sian Victoria © - Herbal, floral tea, coffee and superfood powder drink cupboard

Healthiest Beverages with Beauty, Skin and Hair Benefits

Skip out on fizzy drinks and sugar-loaded juices and artificially sweetened cordials and try out some flavoursome herbal and floral beverages that are instead packed full of health and beauty benefits. Whether you want to cut down on your sugar or caffeine intake or just fancy trying something new to boost your health inside and out, there are so many delicious herbal teas to choose from, coming in a countless range of flavours and forms to suit whatever you're craving.

Plus, they couldn’t be better at boosting your well-being and health. Boasting powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and even the ability to support cardiovascular health, it’s clear to see why herbal loose-leaf teas are becoming more and more of a popular choice. Herbal and floral loose-leaf teas have been popular for many centuries in countries such as China whereas the common black tea in bag form is popular in the UK and coffee is highly consumed in the USA.

Following on from my essential pantry health foods post. Have a read to see what’s in my tea, coffee, and superfood powder pantry. Featuring some of the healthiest and most beneficial herbal teas, floral teas and pure powders that can be mixed into drinks to reap many medicinal and healthy living benefits.

1. Green tea

Sian Victoria © - Loose leaf green tea leaves

Green tea is perhaps one of the most well-known herbal drinks – and for good reason. Made from the leaves of the camellia sinensis plant, green tea has been a popular part of natural medicinal remedies for centuries. Here are the health and beauty benefits of loose-leaf green tea.

Boasting natural antioxidants, green tea will neutralise harmful free radicals and in turn lower the risk of disease.
The caffeine in the tea is great at stimulating the brain and nervous system to improve its function, as well as helping you to manage a healthy weight as it increases metabolic rate.
Green tea is rich in polyphenols; these also prevent disease, lower blood pressure levels, and have anti-inflammatory properties.
There are many beauty benefits of green tea. Vitamin B2 and Vitamin E in green tea support skin health and a youthful complexion as they help to stimulate collagen production and cell turnover.
The plant compound EGCG in green tea stimulates the hair follicles to encourage hair growth, making it a great tea to drink if you’re suffering from hair loss as mentioned in my how to prevent hair loss guide.

2. Matcha powder

Sian Victoria © - Green tea matcha poweder

Something that has become increasingly popular is matcha tea powder and like green tea, it derives from the camellia sinensis plant. It’s packed full of essential health and beauty benefits thanks to its nutrient content – have a read to discover the health and beauty benefits of matcha.

EGCG in matcha tea supports cardiovascular health and prevents health problems including helping to prevent cancer and type 2 diabetes.
The rich antioxidant content in matcha protects the body from free radicals and disease as it supports the cells.
Matcha has been proven to ensure the healthy function of the liver, in turn detoxifying the body and lowering the risk of liver disease.
The chlorophyll content in matcha powder has anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it can soothe the skin and draw out impurities.
EGCG can also protect against sun damage, in turn helping to prevent premature skin ageing.

3. Spearmint & Peppermint tea

Sian Victoria © - Loose leaf spearmint tea

Spearmint tea and loose-leaf peppermint tea are made by straining mint leaves in water, creating a tasty and refreshing minty beverage that’s packed full of nutrients, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds to support your health and well-being.

Here are just a few health and beauty benefits of drinking peppermint and spearmint tea.

This minty herbal tea is free from caffeine and calories and is incredibly effective in assisting digestion, as it eases bloating and discomfort such as nausea, so is perfect to drink after an evening meal.
The antibacterial properties of spearmint and peppermint mean it’s great for giving you fresher breath.
As well as supporting digestive health, the tea can also alleviate pain from menstrual cramps thanks to its antispasmodic properties.
Menthol in the tea is brilliant at reducing stress, meaning it’s great for treating anxiety and insomnia as it induces relaxation.
The rich antioxidant content helps reduce acne, with anti-inflammatory properties also soothing the skin and calming the complexion.
Beyond the beauty benefits, some teas especially peppermint can be helpful for internal health issues, such as LPR or silent reflux.

4. Coffee

Sian Victoria © - Instant coffee in glass jar

If you’re not looking to reduce your caffeine intake then you’ll be pleased to know coffee is packed with health benefits. However, coffee is only beneficial when consumed in moderation, too much caffeine can cause health problems in consumers as well as in unborn children.

When choosing the perfect coffee equipment, it's essential to consider the various coffee-making methods available. Three primary methods are filtering, using an automatic espresso machine, or preparing instant coffee. Filter coffee involves putting hot water in a filter with ground coffee beans, letting the water run through and extracting the flavour. An automatic espresso machine uses pressure to force hot water through finely ground coffee to produce a concentrated and flavourful shot of espresso. Instant coffee, conversely, is made by dissolving specially prepared coffee granules in hot water, providing a simple and quick method to enjoy coffee. Each technique offers a unique brewing process, resulting in distinct flavours catering to different preferences and time constraints. These are the numerous benefits drinking coffee boasts with moderate consumption:

A major benefit of drinking coffee is the energy boost it gives; the caffeine content stimulates activity in the brain and nervous system, subsequently improving cognitive function and performance.
The high antioxidant content reduces the risk of disease and reduces inflammation in the body, as well as being able to support the healthy function of the immune system.
Drinking coffee can also assist in metabolic rate, meaning it can be useful if you’re trying to reach or maintain a healthy weight.
Chlorogenic acids in coffee have anti-inflammatory properties, meaning they can help to reduce the risk of acne and other skincare concerns including eczema, especially when used topically. However, drinking coffee for its skin benefits is only beneficial when you drink quality coffee beans and only one to two cups a day maximum. Ideally drinking coffee black or without dairy milk and added sugar is how you can benefit most from your daily cup of ‘Joe’. I drink coffee with oak milk for extra plant-based goodness.
The caffeine can also increase blood flow, in turn reducing the appearance of undereye bags and dark circles which is why you’ll find it in skincare products such as The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG. As well as in many hair growth shampoos and treatments for awakening the hair follicles on the scalp.

5. Burdock root tea

Created from the root of the burdock plant, burdock root tea is an earthy-tasting herbal beverage that has been a staple feature in traditional, herbal remedies for centuries and is often added to haircare. It’s drunk by many who wish to enjoy its extensive array of medicinal benefits including a natural way to reduce testosterone levels, for women with symptoms of PCOS who are experiencing hair loss due to excessive levels of DHT on the scalp. Here are just a few of the many benefits of drinking burdock root tea.

The fibre inulin in the tea purifies the blood and removes toxins from the body thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Blood pressure levels will be reduced thanks to the high Vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium content.
Burdock roots’ high antioxidant levels ensure the cells are protected from harmful free radicals, in turn lowering the risk of disease.
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the tea mean the skin will be calmed and soothed, subsequently improving skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
The rich vitamin and amino acid content soothes the scalp and ensures it remains healthy and can stimulate hair follicles and promote new hair growth.

6. Liquorice root tea

Liquorice root tea is considered one of the most traditional and oldest herbal teas and is created from the root of the liquorice plant. Providing a sweet-tasting flavour as well as a whole host of health and well-being benefits, the soothing and healing properties of liquorice tea may be one to consider adding to your new healthy living regime.

Like me, the taste of liquorice may be far too sweet for some, therefore I always mix liquorice root with peppermint, nettle, and burdock to cover up the sweetness while boosting the health and beauty benefits of liquorice root tea.

Believed to relieve issues of acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion, drinking liquorice root tea is great for ensuring digestive health.
The antibacterial and antiviral components of the tea support the healthy function of the immune system, subsequently helping to fight off illness.
The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties of the tea are incredibly effective in assisting oral health, with the compound glycyrrhizin reducing areas of tooth decay.
The liquiritin compound in liquorice root can lighten dark spots on the skin, in turn, evening out and restoring the complexion. Burdock root is also one of many natural skincare ingredients to improve ageing and acne skin.
The tea can be used as a hair growth stimulant, with its tingling properties promoting thicker and longer growth.

7. Nettle tea

Sian Victoria © - Loose leaf stinging nettle tea

Stinging Nettle tea is created when the dried leaves from the nettle plant are soaked in hot water, in turn infusing them into a beneficial herbal beverage. Boasting a myriad of effective nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, it’s no wonder nettle tea is so renowned for its medicinal properties.

The anti-inflammatory components of nettle tea mean it’s great at reducing pain in the body, such as muscle inflammation caused by arthritis.
Helpful in lowering blood sugar levels as nettle tea lowers glucose in the blood, this drink supports heart health and can be used to help prevent type-2 diabetes.
As a diuretic with antimicrobial properties, nettle tea is beneficial in removing bacteria in the urinary tract, in turn treating UTIs and supporting kidney and prostate health.
The selenium, zinc and vitamin content in the tea promotes elasticity in the skin, subsequently helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles when consumed consistently.
The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties help improve acne and breakouts on the skin as well as encourage hair to be shiny and grow thicker.

8. Hibiscus tea

When dried hibiscus flowers are infused into hot water, delicious floral hibiscus tea is created. Packed full of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, loose-leaf hibiscus tea is drunk by many wishing to improve their health and well-being while being a flavoursome floral drink to consume offering sweet, sour and fruity flavours.

The high antioxidant content in the tea supports the immune system and ensures the body’s overall health by fighting off free radicals and protecting the cells.
Reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, hibiscus tea is brilliant at ensuring cardiovascular health and fighting off the risk of heart disease.
As a natural diuretic, hibiscus tea aids digestion and, in turn, can be useful in promoting weight loss.
Drinking naturally sweet hibiscus tea is high in vitamin C so is a healthy drink alternative in comparison to consuming fruit juices such as apple and orange juice which are high in vitamin C but are often packed with added sugar. Therefore, hibiscus tea is a natural way to encourage collagen production, in turn improving the elasticity of the skin and reducing signs of skin ageing.
The substance mucilage – often found in moisturisers – is present in hibiscus tea and is effective in locking in moisture on the skin, keeping the complexion hydrated and glowing.

9. Ashwagandha powder

The herb ashwagandha is grown in parts of Asia and can be added to boiled water to create a highly effective herbal tea with adaptogens benefits. Boasting medicinal properties to treat physical and mental ailments, ashwagandha powder is a popular herbal treatment consumed globally.

Personally, Ashwagandha doesn’t taste great therefore I consume it with warm oat milk mixed with pure cacao powder (not cocoa) at night-time to benefit from Ashwagandha’s benefits for insomnia and stress – to improve mental health and selfcare.

The powder is packed full of chemicals that regulate cortisol levels and help the body relieve symptoms of stress, making it a great treatment for anxiety and those who suffer from insomnia to promote improved sleep quality.
Compounds in ashwagandha regulate blood sugar levels as it reduces blood glucose, meaning it can help treat people with type-2 diabetes.
The compound Withaferin A in ashwagandha powder has anti-inflammatory properties, in turn reducing irritation across the body.
Iron in ashwagandha boosts the immune system, subsequently helping to fight off illness and infection.
With its antioxidants fighting free radicals and its amino acid content giving the follicles imperative nutrients, ashwagandha powder can stimulate new, healthy hair growth while encouraging the production of melanin to protect your hair’s natural colour and slowing down early signs of grey hair.

10. Lemon balm tea

When dried lemon balm leaves are infused in boiling water, a mild citrusy, refreshing herbal tea is created. Used for centuries as a popular medicinal remedy, lemon balm tea is a brilliant drink to try if you want to enjoy its calming, soothing properties.

Drinking lemon balm tea is beneficial in easing stress and anxiety thanks to its calming effects.
Its powerful antioxidant content can help to protect the immune system from infection and can fight off illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
As a carminative herb, lemon balm is beneficial in supporting digestion, and subsequently easing indigestion, nausea, and abdominal cramping.
The antibacterial components in the tea neutralise free radicals on the skin such as UV exposure to prevent premature skin ageing and helps to purify the skin to create a softer complexion.
Its antiviral properties mean the tea can also be effective in treating cold sores and speeding up the healing process.

11. Green coffee beans

Sian Victoria © - Grounded green coffee beans

As opposed to the traditional coffee beans you may know, green coffee beans are raw and haven’t been roasted yet. This raw form means the beans are the most nutritious they can be, with exceptionally higher health benefits than their roasted counterpart.

Containing high levels of chlorogenic acid, blood pressure levels are lowered, and blood sugar levels are stabilised to ensure overall cardiovascular health.
Boasting higher levels of caffeine than regular beans, green coffee beans will boost your energy and significantly improve your cognitive function and performance levels.
The high antioxidant content fights off harmful free radicals and reduces the overall risk of disease, in turn boosting your immune system.
These antioxidants are also incredibly effective in increasing collagen production, subsequently firming the skin, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The anti-inflammatory properties fight off visible acne on the skin, while the nutrients in the beans ensure overall skin health.

12. Rose hip tea

When the fresh rose hips, or the fruit, of the rose plant, are infused in boiling water, a fresh floral and sweet tea is created. As well as boasting a delicious taste, rose hip tea is also highly beneficial in terms of its medicinal properties. I often mix rose hip tea with hibiscus to create a beautiful pink floral drink with health and skin-loving benefits.

Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation throughout the muscles and tissues, particularly supporting cardiovascular health.
The high Vitamin C content boosts the immune system, fighting off harmful free radicals to protect the body from illness and infection.
As a diuretic, the tea is a brilliant detoxifier and will remove impurities in the body – specifically, in the digestive system to support a healthy digestive function.
The antioxidants in rose hip tea protect the skin from free radicals including sun exposure to prevent premature skin ageing and fine lines and wrinkles.
The benefits of Vitamin A in rose hip tea can help to support overall skin health as it promotes moisture and hydration, as well as being able to encourage cell turnover to reduce acne and breakouts.

13. Vitamin B Complex powder

Sian Victoria © - Vitamin B complex powder

Vitamin B complex powder boasts incredibly essential nutrients that ensure healthy well-being. When this powder is mixed into water or made into a blended homemade juice or shake, you’ll be able to feel confident in the fact you’re ensuring your body is becoming the healthiest it can be as you’ll consume essential B vitamins that are vital for overall body, skin, hair, and nail health.

The powder is sourced from health food staples such as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, and cabbage as well as spinach and other rich vitamin-packed veggies. It’s always best to consume vitamins from food, however, if you struggle to get enough into your diet and you don’t want to rely on supplements adding pure superfood powders to your drinks is a great alternative and adding the benefits of a Vitamin B complex powder is a great way to start.

Vitamin B12 and B9 are imperative in producing healthy red blood cells, which in turn support the transport of oxygen throughout the body.
Vitamin B3, or niacin as its also known, is effective in lowering cholesterol levels and controlling fats in the blood to lower the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
Biotin also known as B7 helps the body to break down food and use its energy to help contribute to your active lifestyle.
Vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid all play a part in ensuring regular eyesight and eye health, with their ability to prevent the degeneration of the retina.
Vitamin B1, or thiamine, boosts collagen production to increase the elasticity of the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The pantothenic acid in Vitamin B5 locks in moisture in the skin to create a supple, smooth, and hydrated complexion.

14. Black Tea

Black tea is a much-beloved beverage that not only has a deep flavour and captivating aroma but also provides an array of health and beauty advantages. This highly popular drink is made from the Camellia sinensis plant and is more oxidised than other varieties like green, white or oolong teas, giving it a distinguished dark hue and a strong flavour. But aside from the enjoyment of the tea, it also offers much more to our well-being and beauty care.

When it comes to health, black tea is filled with antioxidants, specifically catechins and theaflavins. These polyphenols fight free radicals, minimise oxidative stress and secure cellular health. Additionally, the habitual intake of black tea is thought to decrease the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and certain forms of cancer. Studies indicate that black tea can be good for the heart due to its theaflavins, which may reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, thus benefiting cardiovascular functioning.

Apart from these benefits, black tea is also packed with antioxidants and vitamins such as vitamins C and E that enhance the immune system and improve energy levels, alertness, and digestion. Additionally, the beauty benefits of black tea are quite remarkable. Not only can it be drunk, but also can be applied to the skin and hair, as its antioxidants provide protection, giving it a brilliant radiance, and polyphenols help to reduce wrinkles and lines.

Moreover, its anti-inflammatory attributes help to calm the skin, and the cooled tea bags can be used under the eyes to diminish puffiness and dark circles. Black tea can also help to fortify the hair, add shine, and manage frizz, making it a key element in any beauty routine.

15. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a highly versatile and naturally occurring formula which can offer a wealth of health and beauty advantages. Created from fermented apples, ACV has been used for centuries as a time-honoured remedy and beauty elixir due to its multiple minerals, enzymes, and acids. Its inclusion into an all-around wellness and beauty routine is invaluable.

Advantages to Health with Apple Cider Vinegar:

Aid for Digestion: ACV is reputed to improve digestion. Drinking a weakened mixture of ACV prior to eating may help enhance digestion by stimulating the production of stomach acid, supporting the digestion of food and the uptake of nutrients.
Control of Blood Sugar: Research has shown that ACV may strengthen insulin sensitivity and aid in decreasing blood sugar levels, beneficial for people who are diabetic or trying to sustain stable sugar levels.
Weight Loss: ACV can evoke feelings of fullness and diminish the total intake of calories, thereby aiding in weight loss initiatives when integrated into a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Heart Health: Regular usage of ACV has been linked to moderate progress in certain heart health factors, such as cholesterol levels, that could lead to overall cardiac well-being.
Assistance to the Immune System: ACV contains acetic acid which can provide antimicrobial benefits that may be advantageous in boosting the immune system and protecting against infections.

Advantages to Beauty with Apple Cider Vinegar:

Skin Toner: ACV can be diluted in water and employed as a natural toner for the skin, as shown in my sustainable beauty routine post. Its astringent characteristics can help equalise the skin's pH levels, reduce excess oil, and lessen the visibility of pores, resulting in a clearer and smoother complexion.
Calm Acne: The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory characteristics of ACV make it a well-liked cure for skin which is vulnerable to acne. Diluted ACV used as a spot treatment may reduce inflammation and redness, promoting the healing of acne lesions.
Healthy Hair: ACV can be used as a hair rinse to remove accumulation and deposits from styling products, resulting in clean, lustrous, and more manageable hair. Its acidic makeup may also support keeping the scalp's pH balanced, generating a good atmosphere for hair growth.
Caring for Nails: Submerging nails in a solution of ACV and water may assist in reinforcing and enhancing the look of nails, encouraging more robust and healthier nails.

Whilst ACV presents an abundance of potential health and beauty benefits, it is essential to employ it with caution and in moderation. Undiluted ACV can be too strong and caustic for the skin, so always dilute it with water before use. Moreover, consulting a medical practitioner is highly recommended, particularly for individuals with specific health conditions or worries.

To conclude

So, there we go – a complete guide to the best natural herbal and floral beverages you can buy to completely upgrade your health and well-being in drink form. As well as the beneficial superfood powders you can add to drinks to boost their vitamin and antioxidant content. Each tea and coffee drink on this list will give your body the medicinal benefits it needs, while also allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavours and a healthier drink alternative to fizzy and sugar-loaded sodas and juices.

Additionally, these loose-leaf teas can also be consumed as iced teas, if you like the sound of this especially if you want to continue drinking them throughout summer you may want to read my how to make iced tea post. The loose-leaf teas can also be added to chilled vitamin-infused water with the addition of fruits to add more flavour or added with other ingredients to reap the benefits of detox water, these are great ways to consume the health benefits of the teas in a variety of refreshing ways.

Follow & Support