Herbal infusions have been used as medicines for probably as long as people have known how to boil water. Most of the ingredients in our teas have been used in beverages for centuries if not millenia. In many cases, science has proven out what herbalists have known for ages. For instance, ginger's muscle-relaxing and nausea-reducing properties are as well known to scientists as they are to mothers who prescribe ginger ale to sick children. In other cases, the causes and effects are more difficult to track and the placebo effect may be as important as the chemical interactions.

Regardless, herbal teas are warm, natural and comforting. In fact, the most important health benefits you experience may be improved mental health after a few quiet moments to yourself.