A hot cup of tea on a rainy day or a cold winter morning sounds perfect, doesn’t it?
There’s something quietly magical about a cup of tea. In the stillness of early morning or the lull of a cold winter evening, tea has this uncanny ability to refresh without overwhelming. But here’s the real question we often forget to ask in our chai-loving nation: Is tea good for summer? Or is tea actually hydrating?
Well, did you know tea is a great drink during the summer, too? As the Indian summer sun blazes overhead, the quest for refreshing beverages becomes paramount. While many reach for sugary sodas or chilled water, there’s a time-honored elixir that not only quenches thirst but also offers a plethora of health benefits. Tea in summer is a great way to keep you hydrated and refreshed. The multiple health benefits of tea also ensure your body’s overall wellness.
Is tea really hydrating?
Let’s be honest. Indian summers are not for the faint-hearted. With temperatures soaring past 40°C in many regions, staying hydrated isn’t just about comfort; it’s about survival. Dehydration can sneak up on you faster than you think, leaving you with fatigue, headaches, and even dizziness.
While water is, of course, the gold standard for hydration, tea comes with its own set of benefits. Contrary to popular belief that caffeinated beverages dehydrate, tea, even with its caffeine content, contributes positively to our daily fluid intake. Studies have shown that moderate consumption of tea does not lead to dehydration; instead, it aids in maintaining hydration levels, especially when consumed without excessive sugar or milk. Herbal teas, such as mint or chamomile, are caffeine-free and can be particularly refreshing during the hot months.
The history of tea in India
Tea’s roots in India trace back centuries, with indigenous communities like the Singpho tribe in Assam consuming wild tea leaves long before British Colonization. In the early 19th century, the British East India Company recognized the potential of India’s tea-growing regions, leading to the establishment of plantations in Assam and later in Darjeeling and the Nilgiris. By the early 20th century, tea had transitioned from a colonial commodity to an integral part of Indian daily life, thanks in part to aggressive marketing campaigns and the adaptation of tea to local tastes.
India’s vast landscape offers a rich tapestry of tea varieties:
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Assam Tea: Known for its bold flavor and deep amber hue, Assam tea is a staple in many Indian households.
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Darjeeling Tea: Often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas,” Darjeeling tea boasts a delicate aroma and a light, muscatel flavor.
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Nilgiri Tea: Hailing from the southern hills, Nilgiri tea offers a fragrant and brisk cup, perfect for iced teas.
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Kangra Tea: From Himachal Pradesh, Kangra tea is celebrated for its unique flavor profile, a result of the region’s specific terroir.
Tea as a Hydrating Drink
Tea has been a part of Indian culture for centuries. From the high-altitude monasteries of Ladakh to the bustling tapris of Mumbai, tea has always been a beverage of choice. Ayurveda, India’s ancient medical science, has long praised herbal teas made from tulsi, ginger, cardamom, and fennel for their cooling and digestive properties.
Tea’s ability to cool the body isn’t just anecdotal. Drinking hot beverages like tea can stimulate the body’s natural cooling mechanisms. When consumed, hot tea increases the body’s temperature slightly, prompting sweat production. As sweat evaporates, it cools the body down. Additionally, certain teas, such as mint, have inherent cooling properties, making them ideal for summer consumption.
How tea helps you stay hydrated
Tea is about 99% water. That in itself makes it a great hydrator. But here’s the fun part: it’s not just about the water content. Certain herbal ingredients commonly found in Indian teas, like mint, lemongrass, and fennel, are known for their cooling effects. Others, like chamomile or tulsi, help regulate internal body temperature and soothe the nervous system.
So when you sip on a cup of warm green tea in summer, you’re not being weird, you’re actually letting your body cool from the inside out. It’s a trick our grandmothers have known for decades.
Summer Teas That are best for hydration
Here are some types of teas that are especially great for the Indian summer:
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Green Tea: Light, refreshing, and packed with antioxidants. It helps flush out toxins and keeps your system cool.
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Lemon Honey Green Tea: A zesty favourite that also boosts immunity while keeping you hydrated.
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Chamomile Tea: Calming, floral, and surprisingly effective at cooling you down.
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Moroccan Mint Tea: Nothing beats the fresh hit of mint when the sun is relentless.
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Tulsi Tea: Known in every Indian household, tulsi not only keeps you cool but also helps with seasonal allergies.
Pro tip: Brew your tea, let it cool, add a dash of honey and a squeeze of lemon, and serve it over ice. Voila, you have the perfect summer cooler.
What About Milk Tea? Is it hydrating?
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room, our beloved doodh wali chai. While milk tea is heavier, it still contributes to hydration. The key is moderation and timing. Avoid piping hot chai during peak noon heat, and instead, enjoy it in the morning or evening.
Freshleaf’s way of making summer tea is better
At Freshleaf, we understand the pulse of Indian summers. Our range of green, black, and herbal teas is curated to suit not just your taste buds but also your well-being. Our Lemon Honey Green Tea is a summer staple, while the Chamomile Calm and Moroccan Mint are favourites for a mid-day cooldown. And if you’re looking for something new, try our Sparkling Tea, it’s fizzy, fruity, and keeps you refreshed on the go. We believe tea is not just a beverage, it’s a lifestyle. Especially when the sun shows no mercy.
So, Is Tea the Perfect Summer Drink?
In many ways, yes, it hydrates, cools, soothes, and even energizes when needed, unlike sugary sodas or artificial energy drinks; tea offers a balanced boost without the crash. Plus, it comes in endless flavours and styles to suit every kind of summer mood.
Next time someone tells you to drink only cold beverages in summer, smile, sip your tea, and know that you’re doing just fine.
Quick Tips for Summer Tea Drinking:
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Stay light: Go for light teas like green, white, or herbal blends.
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Serve Smart: Try cold brewing your tea or serving it with ice.
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Add Citrus: Lemon not only enhances flavour but also boosts hydration.
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Hydrate Mindfully: Don’t rely on tea alone. Keep sipping water throughout the day.
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Listen to Your Body: Some teas cool you down, others might heat you up. Find your balance.
Final Thoughts
In the sweltering heat of Indian summers, hydration is your first line of defense. And tea, humble, timeless tea, is more than just a hot beverage. It’s hydration with heritage, refreshment with purpose. So this summer, reach for your kettle, not just your water bottle. Your body (and your soul) will thank you.
And remember, when in doubt, Freshleaf it out.