Somebody spill the tea!

• Looking for a caffeine-free way to boost your immune system? Herbal teas are a flavorful and effective alternative to true teas. When brewing, use loose leaf tea instead of tea bags to avoid microplastics and exposure to any chemicals in the paper itself.

• Tea, both true and herbal varieties, is rich in polyphenols that boost immune function through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds influence various immune cells and cytokine production.

• White tea, minimally processed and high in bioactive compounds, shows strong antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effects, potentially surpassing green tea in strengthening the immune system against pathogens.

• Black tea consumption is associated with increased immune activation markers, while green tea's abundant EGCG exerts immunomodulatory effects on innate, adaptive and intestinal immune systems.

• Herbal teas like ginger, turmeric, licorice, peppermint and hibiscus offer unique immune-boosting benefits through their bioactive compounds, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties

• When brewing tea, opt for loose-leaf varieties instead of tea bags to avoid potential microplastic contamination and exposure to harmful chemicals like epichlorohydrin in paper filters.