Tea by an M.D.?
During the prime of my career as a physician, I was stricken by an illness that threatened my well-being and livelihood. The doctor became the patient. When conventional medicine didn’t have answers, I discovered the healing power of various complementary and alternative medicine practices such as herbal medicine, focused nutrition, aromatherapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, meditation, movement and energy (eg., Tai Chi, Yoga, Qigong), all built on a lifelong foundation of faith & prayer. My years of medical training hadn’t focused on the body’s ability to naturally heal itself!
Over the years, I have become my own case-study. I can attest to the healing power of plants and the power of cultural collaboration and integration for healing practices. Using the concept of "food as medicine", I changed the way I ate by including more plants in my diet (vegetables, herbs, fruit, whole grains, legumes, seeds, nuts) and eliminated or greatly reduced animal and processed products. This is also known as a "whole food, plant-based diet". I also benefited from the essential oils produced by plants in the form of aromatherapy. Plants have a lot of power!
I'm grateful for the guidance of my primary care physician and TCM physician who encouraged and helped to navigate my path. This first-hand experience, in addition to training in functional, integrative, and herbal medicine, has been essential in my wellness journey and it is my hope that it may benefit you as well. There’s no magic bullet and I won’t make promises just to make a sale. This is simply an invitation to unlock the potential of your wellbeing.
Evidence-based studies in addition to historical data of ~ 5000 years support the medicinal properties of tea, and increasing awareness regarding the benefits have positioned tea as a beverage that offers more than a refreshing and relaxing drink. Most people enjoy tea for this reason, however, it is not regulated or intended for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. As always, it's recommended to talk to your doctor about any supplements or products you take, even if "natural".
Tea is an easily accessible tool that could be considered for your wellness toolbox. The act alone of drinking tea has become a ritual and self-care practice for many. Tea is also a personal favorite of mine and I cherish the sweet memories of making my mom a cup of tea (with honey) and enjoying tea with my daughter and loved ones.
Enjoyed in sickness and in health, teatime is wellness, intentionality, and community. Teatime is a way of life. (Read more about Our Story here).
Sip well,
Dr. T
#TeabyanMD