GREEN THOUGHTS
USE GREEN TEA
As you look forward to the coming of the
summer season with its wide variety of outdoor activities you may also be
remembering some of the ailments of the season, such as sunburn and insect
bits. If you are looking for a remedy to ease the discomfort of these ailment
you may want to consider Green Tea.
Green Tea is an Asian tea that is made with the
leaves of the Camellia sinensis that have undergone a minimal amount of
oxidation. It has undergone scientific and medical studies to learn the extent
of its health benefits. There is evidence that if you drink two cups of green
tea every day it will help lower the chances of Heart Disease, some cancers, and
is an aid in weight-loss management. It is also believed that it may boost the
immune system, reduce the effects of bacteria, and promote dental health. In
ancient times it was also used to relieve stomach ailments, lower blood pressure
and fight infection. More recent studies indicate that the antibacterial nature
of green tea can be used to assist in the healing of wounds, reduce scarring,
and ease the itchiness and swelling associated with insect bites. It is also
believed it can be used successfully to treat sunburn and skin rashes such as
acne and poison ivy.
During the summer months it’s a good idea to have a
container of green tea in the refrigerator at all times. Add a couple of ice
cubes and you have a cool, healthy drink. (Don’t overdo it however, more than
three glasses a day can cause minor side effects such as sleeping problems,
anxiety or upset stomach.) It will also be there ready for use if any member of
your family is afflicted with a summer skin ailment. If you need other uses it
can also be used to wash off cutting boards, kitchen counters, tables, sinks and
garbage cans to help reduce bacteria on them. Some plants also seem to thrive
if they are watered with a weak solution of green tea.
Another advantage of using green tea instead of some
of the other herbal remedies is that it is easy to buy and just as easy to use.
If sunburn is your problem try washing all exposed areas with green tea (a green
tea extract could also be used) before going out in the sun, this can reduce the
chances of a serious burn occurring. You can still use sun block if you want
to. If you are burned pour or apply green tea over the affected area every few
hours, or if you prefer throw some green tea bags in your bath water and soak
for a while. This method also takes the itch out of rashes, poison ivy, etc.
For insect bites and minor wounds you can make a compress by soaking a pad in
hot green tea and applying it to the affected area, or if you prefer use the
slightly cooled tea bag.
Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_tea
http://www.greenteas.com/other-uses-of-green-tea.php
http://www.freewebs.com/herbal_remedies/sunburn.html | 
