Osmanthus plants are native to Asia ranging from Himalayas, China, Southeast Asia, to Japan. However, they are also cultivated as ornamental plants all around the world.
The flowers are so fragrant, with a scent relatable to that of peaches or apricots.
Osmanthus tea is not only sweet and flavourful but has abundant health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of drinking osmanthus tea.
1. Reduces oxidative stress
According to a study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Osmanthus flowers reduce oxidative stress in animals. Osmanthus tea has a mild sedative effect, so it helps relax the mind, as well as improve brain function.
2. Reduces phlegm and stasis
According to another study published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Osmanthus reduces phlegm and stasis in animals. Stasis is the slowdown or stoppage in the flow of blood and other body fluids.
3. May treat allergies
Osmanthus tea contains anti-allergic agents. It helps reduce congestion in the throat, as well as mucus caused by inflamed lungs.
4. May ease menstrual pain
Osmanthus tea may help reduce menstrual pain. It is beneficial to treat stomach aches and diarrhea. It also improves digestion, treats intestinal diseases, and reduces bloating and gas.
5. Detoxifying effect
Osmanthus flower tea helps your body get rid of toxins present in the kidneys and liver, and makes you feel fresh and energized. In Chinese medicine, it is used as a strong cleansing agent. It is helpful in treating issues related to the kidneys, liver, and the endocrine system.
6. Combats free radicals
According to a study published in the Journal of Functional Foods, osmanthus has a good amount of phenolic acid. Phenolic acid acts as a natural source of antioxidants. It combats free radicals that may cause cataracts or cell damage. Free radicals also cause chronic inflammation and cardiovascular diseases.
According to a review published in the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, a diet rich in polyphenols reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
7. Prevents bad breath
Osmanthus tea prevents bad breath. You can use it as a mouthwash in the morning.
8. Suppresses appetite
According to a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, inhaling the aroma of osmanthus tea may curb your appetite. The fragrance of Osmanthus decreases the activity of appetite-stimulating brain chemicals. It also increases the activity of appetite-suppressing brain chemicals. Therefore, it may help curb binge eating and aid weight loss.
9. May help protect insulin-producing cells
According to an article published in the Journal of Natural Medicines, Osmanthus flowers have vitamin B3 in the form of niacinamide. This vitamin helps your body convert carbohydrates into energy. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, niacinamide may help protect insulin-producing cells in type-1 diabetics.
10. Benefits the skin and eyes
Osmanthus tea is good for enhancing eyesight. Regular consumption of the tea helps to moisturize the skin. Osmanthus tea also enhances skin tone and color. Some skincare products for topical application contain Osmanthus essential oil.
11. Provides vital nutrients
Osmanthus tea contains cobalt, selenium, manganese, and molybdenum. It contains trans-alpha-carotene, trans-beta-carotene, and neo-beta-carotene B. The tea relieves fatigue and prevents drowsiness.
12. Helps treat rheumatism
According to a study published in the Journal of Functional Foods, Osmanthus helps treat rheumatism. It also prevents platelet aggregation.
Source:
1. Osmanthus Tea: Health Benefits and Simple Recipes from Food For Better Health in Foods for Better Health by Farah Shaikh