As we approach the end of winter, the lasting chill in the air has me longing to find comfort in a warm cup of tea. There is just something about holding a warm cup of freshly-brewed tea that brings instant relief. The warm liquid relaxes my muscles as it slides down my throat, its soothing aroma calming my nerves. To many of us, tea is the perfect drink to bring a sense of calm and healing. It is widely known that a large variety of teas have medicinal properties, such as boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. Today, I will be highlighting some traditional Korean teas that are known for their natural health benefits.

1. Ssanghwacha

Ssanghwacha is a traditional Korean tea that is made with a variety of medicinal ingredients such as Korean angelica root, jujube, Rehmannia root, and cinnamon bark. It has a herby, bitter taste that is often sweetened with a drizzle of honey. As well, ssanghwacha is often served with egg yolk to neutralize the bitter taste of the tea and boost protein intake. Ssanghwacha is known for its ability to relieve fatigue, prevent colds, and facilitate recovery from illness. Thus, ssanghwacha was widely used in the Joseon Dynasty of Korea by physicians to aid patients recovering from a variety of illnesses. Its popularity continues on in the modern day, and ssanghwacha is offered in many traditional Korean tea houses, as well as sold in pre-made packages in most grocery stores. 

2. Daechu-cha

Daechu-cha is made with dried jujubes, either by boiling them or making a preserve by simmering them in a pot for hours, until it forms a thick, syrupy substance. This tea has a sweet, yet slightly spicy taste, and is popular for both its delicious, warming flavour and host of health benefits. Some of the health benefits of daechu-cha include relief of anxiety and insomnia, and calming of the over-excited nervous system. As well, this tea is rich in iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamins B and C. In addition, its usage of dried jujubes makes this tea available year-round, and daechu-cha is offered in many cafes around Korea throughout the seasons.

3. Maesil-cha

Maesil-cha is a traditional tea made with green Korean plums. It has a sweet and tart flavour which makes it popular with both adults and children alike. This tea is known for its ability to relieve symptoms of food poisoning and diarrhea, detoxify the body, and aid in digestion. Due to the latter, maesil-cha is sometimes served after the meal in restaurants, as a complimentary beverage. Although maesil-cha can be served both hot and cold, it is most commonly served cold in the heat of summer as a refreshing drink. Thus, it is a popular item on cafe menus during the summer, and it can be seen incorporated into a variety of different beverages such as ades and refreshers.

4. Bori-cha

Bori-cha is one of the most common teas in Korea, and it can be found everywhere, from restaurants to household fridges. Bori-cha is made from roasted barley, and the caffeine-free tea helps with indigestion and weight loss, and controls blood sugar levels as well. The tea has a mild, nutty flavour, which is quite pleasant and unimposing to the senses. As such, it makes a very good alternative to plain drinking water, and you will find many restaurants in Korea offering chilled bori-cha instead of water. Due to its simple, easy-to-find ingredients and easy method of brewing, bori-cha is a staple in many households across Korea, making it one of the most beloved teas in the country.

5. Hong sam cha

Hong sam cha is a traditional Korean tea made with Korean red ginseng, which is widely known for its numerous medicinal properties. This tea boosts the immune system, promotes blood circulation, aids in brain functioning, and helps to decrease stress. Due to its abundance of natural health benefits, hong sam makes a popular gift in Korea, and can be seen being sold in numerous tourist gift shops and duty-free stores. It is often sold in little packets as extracts which can be taken as a supplement, but hong sam cha is often made from ground red ginseng, and served with pine nuts and a drizzle of honey. 

6. Yulmu-cha

Yulmu-cha is quite unique in that its consistency is closer to that of a runny soup than clear tea. Its main ingredient is Job's tears, also known as coix seed. In addition, yulmu-cha has a variety of different nuts and sliced jujube pieces added to it, giving it a wonderful texture. Not only is this sweet, nutty tea delicious, but it also boasts numerous health benefits such as its ability to reduce cholesterol levels and strengthen the immune system, as well as its high protein and fat content. In addition, Job's tears is a gluten-free grain, making it the perfect tea for those who are gluten-free.