Many people enjoy adding various herbs to their tea, hoping for their healing properties. However, not everyone is aware of how exactly these plants affect the body. Such ignorance can negatively impact health, particularly memory and cognitive functions.
A group of researchers from Northumbria University in the UK conducted an experiment to find out how different herbs affect humans. The scientists focused on infusions of peppermint and chamomile, as well as the aromas of lavender and rosemary.
The study involved 180 Britons who were offered one of the popular national drinks — tea infused with chamomile and peppermint herbs. At the beginning and end of the experiment, participants underwent testing for cognitive abilities and emotional state.
Analysis of the collected data showed that those who drank peppermint tea experienced improved cognitive functions and an uplift in mood, accompanied by a surge of energy. At the same time, participants who consumed chamomile tea exhibited the opposite effect: the infusion had a calming effect, suppressing emotions and slowing down the memorization process.
Another experiment focused on the effects of the aromas of rosemary and lavender. Participants were divided into two groups: one was in a room with the scent of rosemary, while the other was in a room with the aroma of lavender.
After testing cognitive abilities before and after the experiment, it was found that the aroma of rosemary enhances memory, whereas the scent of lavender, on the contrary, weakens it. The researchers reported the results of the study in an article published on the university's website.
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