A Not-So-Fancy Girl’s Guide to Tea Types and Why They’re Basically Self-Care in a Mug

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I used to think tea was just something you drank when you were sick, British, or trying to be fancy at brunch. But then life got chaotic (as it does), and I found myself reaching for something warm that wasn’t coffee—and suddenly, I fell into the wonderful, weird, calming world of tea.
Now, I drink tea every day, and I swear it’s become one of the easiest ways I take care of myself. It doesn’t require a gym membership or a complicated routine. Just hot water, a mug, and the right tea bag. And honestly? It kind of feels like a tiny act of love—especially when I find the right one for the vibe I’m in.
So whether you’re trying to chill out, wake up, de-bloat, or just feel a little more put-together, here’s a simple breakdown of different kinds of tea, what they do, and the actual Amazon finds that turned me into a tea person. Like, an “I have a tea shelf” person. No shame.
1. Green Tea – For That Clean, Light, Zen Feeling
Let’s start with the classic. Green tea is like the yoga instructor of teas. It’s light, earthy, and makes you feel like you’re doing something healthy even if you’re just sitting on the couch in sweatpants.
I like drinking green tea mid-morning when I need a gentle energy boost without the jittery crash that coffee sometimes gives me.
Benefits:
- Boosts metabolism
- Packed with antioxidants
- Supports brain function (hello, focus)
- May help reduce bloating
My go-to:
- Ito En Japanese Matcha + Green Tea Bags – These are the real deal. Slightly grassy, super smooth, and so good iced or hot.
2. Chamomile – When You Need to Chill the Heck Out
Chamomile is like the friend who rubs your back when life sucks. It’s cozy, mellow, and makes everything feel a little softer. I drink it almost every night before bed, especially when my brain won’t shut up.
Benefits:
- Calms nerves
- Helps with sleep
- Soothes digestion
- Reduces anxiety
My fave:
- Celestial Seasonings Chamomile Herbal Tea – Affordable, classic, and tastes like a gentle hug. Sometimes I add a little honey and oat milk for extra sleepy vibes.
3. Peppermint Tea – For Bloating, Brain Fog, and Meh Days
Okay, peppermint is low-key the MVP. I started drinking it when I was super bloated after a holiday food marathon and now I always keep a box in my kitchen. It’s naturally caffeine-free but still kind of wakes you up.
Benefits:
- Soothes upset stomach
- Helps with digestion
- Freshens breath
- Clears sinuses and brain fog
Try this one:
- Traditional Medicinals Organic Peppermint Tea – Strong, fresh, and works wonders post-meal. It’s not fancy, but it works.
4. Black Tea – Coffee’s Smooth, Chill Cousin
If you’re trying to cut back on coffee but still need that AM jolt, black tea has your back. It’s bold, warm, and feels like a grown-up choice. I love it on slow mornings with a splash of milk and a little sugar (or maple syrup—try it, trust me).
Benefits:
- Contains caffeine (without the crash)
- May support heart health
- Can improve focus
- Just generally feels comforting
My morning staple:
- Twinings English Breakfast Tea – Classic. Smooth. No bitterness. It’s like a cozy, caffeinated blanket.
5. Ginger Tea – Spicy, Healing, and Weirdly Addictive
Ginger tea surprised me. I didn’t think I’d like it, but it’s spicy in a good way and made me feel instantly better when I was nauseous one morning. Now it’s what I reach for after a heavy meal, or when my immune system needs a pep talk.
Benefits:
- Fights nausea
- Reduces inflammation
- Helps with bloating
- Can ease menstrual cramps
A spicy go-to:
- Yogi Tea Ginger – It’s strong, warming, and really good with lemon. One cup and you feel like your insides are being reset.
6. Rooibos – Caffeine-Free, Sweet, and Underrated
Rooibos (pronounced ROY-boss, which I only learned after a barista gently corrected me) is a red tea from South Africa. It tastes slightly sweet and nutty and makes a great nighttime tea when you want flavor but not caffeine.
Benefits:
- High in antioxidants
- Supports heart health
- May improve skin
- Naturally caffeine-free
Perfect pick:
- Twinings Pure Rooibos Red Tea – It’s smooth, satisfying, and feels like a treat without being sugary.
7. Detox Teas – For When You Feel Meh and Puffy
I don’t believe in “tea diets” or skinny teas, but I do believe in teas that help you feel less blah. Some blends are made with ingredients like dandelion root, fennel, and lemongrass that support digestion and help your body reset naturally.
Benefits:
- Reduces water retention
- Supports liver function
- Helps digestion
- Makes you feel like you’re doing something good for yourself (because you are)
Worth trying:
- Traditional Medicinals EveryDay Detox Tea – Earthy, herbal, and perfect after a weekend of pizza and Netflix marathons.
Bonus: Accessories That Make Tea Time Even Better
Let’s be honest—half the fun is in the cute stuff.
- Cute Glass Tea Mug with Infuser – Makes loose leaf tea feel extra fancy without effort.
- Electric Kettle with Temperature Control – For the tea snobs (or aspiring tea snobs). Different teas need different temps and this kettle gets it.
- Tea Organizer Box – Because nothing kills a vibe faster than loose tea bags floating in a drawer.
Final Sip
Tea isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. It’s warm hands around a mug on a rough day. It’s five minutes of peace before the kids wake up. It’s a little signal to your body that says, hey, I care about you.
And the best part? There’s a tea for literally everything—whether you’re bloated, stressed, tired, wired, or just need to slow down.
So next time life feels like a lot, skip the energy drink or third coffee. Brew a little something warm, and let your tea do the talking.
Because sometimes, a mug of tea is all the therapy your afternoon needs. ☕💛
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases, but this does not affect my recommendations.I only suggest products I’ve personally vetted.

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