Cistus tea originates from a group of evergreen shrub herbs within the Cistaceae family, thriving in the arid Mediterranean regions. These plants typically reach a modest height of 1-3 feet. Their distinct ovate lanceolate to elliptical leaves, colored in a greyish-green hue, measure between 1/2 inch to 1 inch in length. The branches and leaflets of the plant are characterized by a sticky and hairy texture. Its blooms, adorned with five delicate petals, boast hues ranging from pinkish to purple, blooming exquisitely for just a single day.
# Cure for Lyme DiseaseCistus has long been used to treat Lyme disease. It was thought to be effective in both preventing and treating the condition. Many people and dogs believe it can still protect them from ticks, which are the primary cause of the disease. The cistus extraction used for borreliosis therapy (Lyme disease therapy) was discovered to have a component called manoyloxides, which made it extremely successful as a treatment.
# High in AntioxidantsCistus tea’s miraculous therapeutic effects are definitely due to its high antioxidant content. This plant has been studied by several scientists separately, and the results have constantly been excellent when it comes to its antioxidant capacity. It was found to be high in polyphenols and flavonoids in a thorough 2018 study on its antioxidant potential, which was presented in the journal Plants. It was discovered to be effective in both food and medicine.
# Decreases risks of Cardiovascular DiseaseCardiovascular illnesses, often known as CVDs, are the leading cause of mortality globally. People who are at high risk, according to the WHO, require early identification and care. Cistus tea could be beneficial in this situation. Cistus incanus tea reduced CVD risk variables such as oxidative damage and dyslipidemia, according to a 2019 research published in the Cardiology Journal. For controlling CVDs, the study suggested drinking Cistus incanus tea on a regular basis.
# Cures Respiratory IllnessesCistus tea was traditionally used to cure infections, which was one of the most prevalent traditional applications. Regular ingestion of cistus extract dramatically decreased the symptoms of the cold or flu in participants in a randomised, placebo controlled clinical trial. The concentration of polyphenols was cited by the researchers as the reason for this effect.
# Protects from Viral InfectionsEven with powerful medicines, viral infections are hard to treat. Organic antidotes like cistus, on the other hand, might be a welcome option. Cistus incanus extract has significant antiviral effects with minimal risks of virus resistance, according to a 2016 study released in Scientific Reports. It does not damage the host cells, unlike other natural treatments. The study, which intended to identify herbal alternatives, suggested that more research be done into its potential in the treatment of persistent viral infections.
# Good for Oral HealthOral hygiene was among the cistus’ numerous traditional applications. Cistus tea polyphenols contain antibacterial characteristics that aid in the removal of dental plaque. According to study published in the Journal of Dentistry, washing one’s mouth with cistus tea decreases bacterial attachment in the oral cavities (which produces dental plaque).