In Singapore’s first national survey on caregivers, conducted in December 2020, the immense stress endured by caregivers was spotlighted. Out of 6,700 respondents, a staggering 75% expressed a need for temporary separation from their caregiving roles. Fatigue and exhaustion are prevalent among three-quarters of those caring for individuals with mental health challenges.
Read on to discover how various types of herbal teas can play a significant role in offering relief, contributing to the well-being of those who dedicate themselves to caregiving.
The Healing Legacy of Tea: Bridging History with Modern Wellness
Herbal tea is highly valued for its flavour and health benefits. It has its roots in ancient China, as attested to by the illustrious ‘Cha Jing’ (茶经), also known as ‘The Classic of Tea.’ This influential work was written by Lu Yu in the Tang Dynasty between 760 and 762 CE.
Like peppermint, over time, herbal teas have evolved from traditional remedies to modern wellness drinks that are scientifically recognized for their therapeutic properties, including stress relief. Originally intended only as medicinal tonics, these teas have become widely consumed beverages enjoyed for their flavour and health benefits worldwide.
Regular infusions of these teas function in concert with other health practices, enhancing the person’s general well-being and health management. However, these teas are not stand-alone treatments; rather, they are supportive components of a broader health strategy that may include a variety of herbal treatments.
While herbal teas have shown beneficial effects in reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity, they should be viewed as part of a holistic treatment plan.
1. Jasmine Tea with Red Dates and Osmanthus (Dispelling Cold and Dampness)
Indulge in the aromatic Jasmine tea, renowned for promoting heart health and boosting immunity. This blend is enriched with red dates, packed with fibre, potassium, and iron, known to improve blood circulation and offer antioxidant benefits.
Osmanthus adds a unique note, enhancing lung health and dispelling cold and dampness. The fusion of these elements creates a harmonious blend that nurtures from within, offering a comforting embrace with every sip.
This tea is not just a beverage but a symphony of flavours and health benefits, meticulously crafted to support and rejuvenate your body and spirit, making it an ideal companion in your daily journey of caregiving.
| You will need: | |
| Jasmine tea leaves 茉莉花 (Mòlì huā chá) | 1-2 teaspoons |
Red dates | 3-5 (deseeded and sliced) |
| Dried osmanthus flowers 桂花 (Guìhuā) | 1 teaspoon (1-2 grams) |
Preparation:
- Warm your teapot by rinsing it with hot water. Place jasmine tea leaves in the teapot.
- Add the sliced red dates and osmanthus flowers.
- Pour hot water (around 85°C) over the ingredients. Allow it to steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain and serve.
2. Chrysanthemum, Wolfberry and Lily Blend (Promoting Sleep)
Experience the soothing touch of Chrysanthemums, a natural aid in improving blood flow and digestive comfort. This floral treasure, steeped in tradition, gently unwinds your senses while nurturing your body’s core systems. Paired with wolfberries, this tea not only supports eyesight and skin health but also plays a vital role in maintaining heart wellness, blending ancient wisdom with modern health needs.
The inclusion of Lily, celebrated for its sleep-promoting and respiratory benefits, transforms this tea into a holistic elixir. The harmonious combination of each ingredient in this blend crafts a tranquil sanctuary within your cup, inviting caregivers to embrace a moment of tranquillity and renewal amid their nurturing responsibilities.
This unique blend stands as a tribute to the intricate artistry of tea-making, seamlessly intertwining flavour and function. It serves as a comforting oasis, promoting well-being with every sip and offering a therapeutic escape for those who care for others.
| You will need: | |
| Dried chrysanthemum flowers 菊花 (Júhuā) | 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) |
Wolfberries | 1 tablespoon (5-10 grams) |
| Dried lily petals 百合 (Bǎihé) | 1 teaspoon (1-2 grams) |
Preparation:
- Boil water and let it cool slightly to around 90°C.
- Add all the ingredients to a teapot or a cup.
- Pour the hot water over the ingredients.
Steep for about 5 minutes. - Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy.
Image source: The Hong Kong Cookery
3. Peppermint, Lemongrass and Honey Fusion (Stress Relief)
Refresh your senses with this invigorating blend, a genuine haven in a mug crafted for those dedicated to the well-being of others. The vibrant, cool notes of peppermint leaves not only offer relief from indigestion, headaches, and nausea but also provide a refreshing escape from the day’s stresses.
Lemongrass, with its subtle citrus undertones, takes centre stage, contributing anti-inflammatory properties that aid in pain relief and support heart health. The soothing embrace of honey, a powerhouse of phytonutrients, caresses the throat with comforting sweetness while delivering potent antioxidants.
This tea transcends the boundaries of a mere beverage; it becomes a wellspring of solace and rejuvenation, perfectly attuned to the needs of caregivers who seek moments of comfort and vitality in their demanding roles. Each sip serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of self-care, offering a gentle, nurturing experience that revitalizes both body and spirit.
Image source: ET Food Voyage
| You will need: | |
| Fresh peppermint leaves 新鲜薄荷叶 (xīnxiān bòhé yè) | 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) |
Fresh lemongrass | 1 stalk, finely chopped |
| Honey 蜂蜜 (Fēngmì) | 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) |
Preparation:
- Boil water and let it cool for a minute.
- Add peppermint leaves and lemongrass to a teapot.
- Pour hot water into the teapot. Let it steep for about 5 minutes.
- Strain into a cup, add honey to taste, and stir well.
4. Mulberry Leaf, Wolfberry and Chrysanthemum Tea (Enhancing Immunity)
This unique combination is more than just a tea; it’s a tribute to the art of healing through nature. The cholesterol-lowering benefits of Mulberry leaves blend seamlessly with the liver-supporting properties of Chrysanthemums, creating a powerful duo that nurtures the body’s vital organs.
Added to this mix are wolfberries, not just a burst of flavour but a boon for eyesight, immune system strength, and skin health. This carefully crafted blend forms a nurturing cup of wellness, ideal for those dedicated caregivers who tirelessly look after others. Each ingredient has been chosen for its specific health benefits, ensuring that every sip offers a holistic experience.
This tea is a gentle reminder for caregivers to pause and care for themselves, providing a moment of calm and rejuvenation in their busy lives. It is a blend that respects the hard work of caregiving, offering a comforting hand in the form of a warm, soothing cup.
| You will need: | |
| Dried mulberry leaves 桑叶 (Sāng yè) | 1 teaspoon (1-2 grams) |
Dried wolfberries | 1 tablespoon (5-10 grams) |
| Dried chrysanthemum flowers 菊花 (Júhuā) | 1 teaspoon (1-2 grams) |
Preparation:
- Bring water to a boil and cool it to about 90°C.
- Combine all the ingredients in a teapot or a cup.
- Pour the hot water over the herbs. Steep for around 5 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy.
Image source: Everything Silkworms
5. Pu’er, Red Dates, and Wolfberries Concoction (Renewed Energy and Vitality)
Savour the depth of Pu’er tea, known for its ability to decrease blood sugar, reduce anxiety, and aid in weight loss. Complemented with red dates and wolfberries, this tea becomes a powerhouse of nutrients, offering benefits for blood circulation, skin health, and immune system support, making it an excellent choice for caregivers looking to maintain balance in their health.
In the heart of caregiving, these teas serve not just as a beverage but as a gentle reminder to care for oneself. Every indulgence in this beverage becomes a stride toward complete well-being, empowering caregivers to revitalize and carry on their invaluable support to others with a fresh surge of energy and vitality.
Image source: DC Edit
| You will need: | |
| Pu’er tea 普洱茶 (Pǔ’ěr chá) | 1-2 teaspoons (2-4 grams) |
Red dates | 3-5 (deseeded and sliced) |
| Wolfberries 枸杞子 (Gǒuqǐ zǐ) | 1 tablespoon (5-10 grams) |
Preparation:
- Rinse Pu’er tea with a quick splash of boiling water and discard the water.
- Add red dates and wolfberries to the tea.
- Pour hot water (around 95°C) over the tea blend.
Let it steep for 4-6 minutes.
As caregivers of persons living with dementia, it is crucial to prioritise moments of self-care. Whether it is enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of herbal tea or finding solace in a favourite hobby, carving out time for self-care allows caregivers like yourself to recharge, rejuvenate, and continue providing the best possible care for your loved one with dementia.
AUTHOR BIO
AIMIN TCM Clinic
Aimin (Singapore), established in 2001 by renowned TCM physician Dr. Shi Lidong, boasts over three decades of experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dr. Shi, also the Director of Aimin Fat Reduction Hospital and Aimin Hospital in Tianjin, China, is a certified TCM practitioner in China with more than 35 years of expertise. Aimin gained global recognition in 2001 when Meng Qing Gang achieved a remarkable weight loss of 80kg in 100 days, earning a Guinness World Record in Shanghai. This success story prompted Dr. Shi to expand his exceptional TCM services to Singapore, where he continues to promote wellness and weight management. Aimin’s mission extends beyond weight loss; their goal is to help clients achieve a healthy lifestyle and wellness through effective TCM services.
Website: https://www.aimin.com.sg/
Facebook: Aimin
Instagram: @aimincentre
- Dementia Alliance International Global Report (2021), Link: https://dementiaallianceinternational.org/assets/documents/DAI-Global-Report-2021_Valuing-the-advocacy-of-people-with-dementia-moving-dementia-out-of-the-shadows.pdf
- Jason Weetch, Siobhan O’Dwyer & Linda Clare (2021) The involvement of people with dementia in advocacy: a systematic narrative review, Aging & Mental Health, 25:9, 1595-1604, DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1783512