Herbal Alternatives to Coffee and Tea
Herbal tea is one of the best options for those looking for an alternative to coffee and tea-based beverages. Herbal tea, or tisanes, can offer a wide range of flavors, including herbal, floral, fruity or earthy. Some of the most popular herbal tea varieties include chamomile, peppermint, rooibos, ginger, and hibiscus. Not only are herbal teas caffeine-free, they are also rich in antioxidants and can provide numerous other health benefits, such as aiding digestion, boosting immunity, and promoting relaxation.
Fruit Juices
Fruit juice is another popular alternative to coffee and tea. It’s a naturally sweet drink that provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, as well as essential antioxidants. Many varieties, including apple, orange, pineapple and grapefruit juice, are usually rich in Vitamin C and can help you stay hydrated. If you’re looking for something with a little more caffeine, try a mocha-flavored juice or cocoa-based beverage.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea that is loaded with beneficial probiotics and can help support digestive and immune health. It has a slightly tart flavor and is slightly effervescent, making it a unique alternative to coffee and tea. Kombucha is made by fermenting black or green tea with a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast, also known as a SCOBY. It has been consumed in Asia for centuries and is gaining popularity around the world.
Mulled Cider
Mulled cider is a warm, spiced apple cider that is a delicious alternative to coffee and tea. It is usually made by simmering fresh apples, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and ginger in apple cider. The result is a sweet, spiced flavor that will warm you from the inside out. Mulled cider is also a great way to add more fruits and spices to your diet and is a popular drink during the fall and winter months.
Milkshakes
Milkshakes are a tasty and indulgent way to get your beverage fix without relying on coffee or tea. Just blend together your favorite flavors of ice cream and non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk, and add your favorite mix-ins, like fruits or syrups. You can make a classic milkshake or try something a bit more creative, like a matcha or chai milkshake.
Nut and Seed Milks
Nut and seed milks are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to dairy milk and can make great substitutes for coffee or tea. Almond, cashew, hazelnut, hemp and oat milks are just some of the many varieties available and they come in both natural and flavored varieties. Try a nut or seed milk latte for a delicious and caffeine-free pick-me-up.
Detox Waters
Detox waters are becoming increasingly popular for those looking for an alternative to coffee and tea. These flavored waters usually contain a variety of fresh fruits, herbs, and vegetables like cucumbers, limes, and mint. Detox waters are usually naturally low in calories and can help hydrate your body, as well as promote digestion and flush out toxins.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is an herbal tea made from the leaves of the South American rainforest holly tree. It has a slightly bitter flavor and is relatively high in caffeine, so it can be a great alternative to coffee. Yerba mate has traditionally been used to help increase energy, mental focus and physical performance, as well as boost the immune system, aid in digestion and promote relaxation.
Healthy Hot Cocoa
Who says healthy drinks have to be boring? Healthy hot cocoa makes a great alternative to coffee and tea and can satisfy your sweet tooth without relying on sugary ingredients. Simply mix together some cocoa powder or carob with a non-dairy milk and heat over a medium-low heat until silky and smooth. For an extra dose of antioxidant-rich goodness, try adding some raw cacao powder.
Smoothies
Smoothies make a great alternative to coffee and tea, as they can be customized to suit your own particular tastes and nutritional preferences. Just toss some fresh or frozen fruit, non-dairy milk and your favorite add-ins into a blender and you’ll have a delicious drink in no time. Smoothies are a great way to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet and can help keep you hydrated throughout the day.
Kefir
Kefir is a fermented beverage that has been used for centuries. It has a tart flavor and is relatively low in calories and sugar, making it a great alternative to coffee and tea. Kefir is a source of many beneficial probiotics and antioxidants that can help promote digestion and boost the immune system. It can also be used to make refreshing smoothies or used as a base for salad dressings and sauces.
Nutrient-Rich Juices and Tonics
Nutrient-rich juices and tonics can make great alternatives to coffee and tea. There are a variety of fruits and vegetables that can be juiced or blended into smoothies, such as spinach, kale, beets and carrots. Fresh juices and tonics are loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that can help support the immune system, detoxify the body, boost energy levels and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Fruit-Infused Water
Fruit-infused water is a great way to get your beverage fix without relying on coffee or tea. Simply add a few slices of your favorite fruits, like lemons, limes, oranges, strawberries, or grapefruits, to a glass of filtered water and you’ll have a delicious and refreshing drink. Fruit-infused water is a great way to stay hydrated, as well as get your daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals.
Chai
Chai is a fragrant spiced tea that is traditionally made with black tea and spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. It has a unique flavor profile that can be enjoyed both hot or cold and can make a great alternative to coffee or tea. Chai is often used in natural medicine and is believed to have a multitude of benefits, including aiding digestion, boosting immunity, relieving stress, and promoting relaxation.
