

8 Teas That Are Really Good For Your Vaginal Health
While tea is the kind of drink that those of us who are tea lovers typically consume all throughout the year, I'm pretty sure I'm not alone when I say that there is nothing like looking out of the window on a chilly day while it's raining, curling up under a favorite throw blanket and sipping on a warm cup of herbal tea while reading a book or watching a favorite throwback movie. What's so dope about herbal tea is, aside from it tasting pretty good (especially when it's got some honey and/or lemon in it) is all of the health benefits that it provides. Herbal tea is proven to boost your immunity, de-stress you, fight off free radicals and viruses, improve your digestive system, fight inflammation, and oh so much more.
I'm personally such a fan of the stuff that I once wrote an article for the platform entitled, "10 'Uncommon' Teas You Should Add To Your Stash (& Why)." Today, though, I'm going to share with you a list of teas that are specifically good for your overall vaginal health. That way, if you do decide to cop a couple of 'em, you can be confident that not only will they be soothing to your soul but great for your va-jay-jay too.
1. Burdock Root
Burdock root tea is really good for you, first of all, because it's packed with all kinds of antioxidants. That's why it's got such a great reputation for being able to reduce bodily inflammation and detoxify your blood. In fact, it detoxifies so well that it's been known to inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells and help to ease the symptoms that are associated with eczema. Some other benefits of this particular tea include that it's able to lower your blood sugar levels and that it works as a diuretic. What makes burdock root great for your vagina is it contains properties that can help to balance your hormones as well as strengthen your uterine walls. A must-have, for sure.
2. Chamomile
When it comes to teas that are able to effectively reduce stress levels, it's pretty common for chamomile to top the list. Aside from that, it's also got anti-estrogenic effects that can increase bone density, compounds that can help to reduce symptoms that are associated with the common cold, and, thanks to all of the antioxidants that it has, chamomile is even known to improve heart health and boost immunity. As far as vaginal health goes, if period pain drives you totally up the wall, the anti-inflammatory properties in this tea can significantly reduce any discomfort you may feel. The key is to consume it all month long, though, not only when you're on your cycle.
3. Chasteberry
While chasteberry may not be the kind of tea that comes up in regular conversation, that doesn't make it any less valuable or relevant. In fact, when it comes to women's health, it's considered to be top-tier. That's because the properties in this tea are able to do everything from increase fertility and make producing breast milk easier to reducing PMS and menopause-related symptoms.
The reason why is because chasteberry has powerful enzymes and compounds in it that are able to stimulate estrogen levels in your system. So, whether trying to conceive or getting through menopause is what you want to do, a warm cup of chasteberry can help to make things so much better.
4. Cinnamon
If you're all for something that's a combination of sweet 'n spicy, you definitely need to invest in some cinnamon tea. It's another tea that's high in antioxidants. It also lowers inflammation and blood sugar levels, promotes collagen production (which keeps you looking younger) and it can even help to increase cognitive function (dope). And just what does cinnamon do for your vagina's overall health and well-being? For starters, it helps to reduce PMS-related symptoms. Also, because of the powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties that it contains, consuming cinnamon tea a couple of times a week is a proactive way to keep vaginal infections at bay as well.
5. Ginger
Another pretty spicy tea is ginger. But listen here, if you happen to have a bout of morning sickness, motion sickness, or nausea, you will be more than just a little happy that this is in your stash. Ginger also has a good amount of anti-inflammatory properties in it which makes it pretty effective when it comes to helping to relieve headaches and even migraines. Some other reasons to drink this particular tea is it's rich in the kind of antioxidants that can help to prevent cancer cells, it has a lot of antimicrobial properties to speed up the healing process of a cold and it's loaded with antifungal properties that are great for maintaining good oral health.
There are also properties in ginger that can help to relieve muscle contractions that are typically associated with period cramps. Plus, because ginger is effective in keeping your gut healthy, that means you've got a greater chance of warding off the kind of bad bacteria that can ultimately trigger a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.
6. Green Tea
If there is a tea that is above all teas, it would probably have to be green tea. It actually has a reputation for being one of the healthiest teas on the planet and it is well-deserved. Green tea is full of antioxidants that are great for your brain, weight loss, and protecting your system from cancer. Green tea also has polyphenols that reduce bodily inflammation, antioxidants called catechins that help to prevent cell damage, and properties that fight off germs that cause bad breath.
Some other great things about this tea are it helps to prevent heart disease and type 2 diabetes as well as strengthen your bones. And why does green tea please your vagina so? Well, remember the catechins that I mentioned earlier? Something else that they do is protect your urinary tract. This is great because that can significantly decrease your chances of having a UTI — and if you've ever had one of those before, you know you want to avoid getting those bad boys at all costs if you can.
7. Lemon
Lemon tea is good for you because it's full of Vitamin C. In Vitamin C, there is citric acid that can help to cleanse your liver and ultimately detox your system. Lemon tea also has astringent properties in it that work to combat acne and give your skin an overall radiance and youthful appearance. Something else that's cool about this particular kind of tea is it's got plant flavonoids that can help to lower your cholesterol levels as well as properties that can help to heal inflamed gums and restore oral health. As far as your vaginal health goes, the acidic nature of the tea is great at helping your vagina to maintain its pH levels as it also fights off free radicals and keeps your immune system up so that it's harder for you to get vaginal infections.
8. Rooibos
The first time I recall having a cup of rooibos tea was the first time I went to South Africa. To me, the best way to describe it is, if you're looking for a coffee (tasting) substitute, it's one to strongly consider. And why is it so good for your health? Rooibos can assist with supporting your weight loss plan; the alpha hydroxy acid that's in it can help to improve your skin's appearance; it has the bioactive flavonoid chrysoeriol that can reduce allergy-related symptoms; it's rich in antioxidants that can help to boost your immunity and it's caffeine-free if, again, you're trying to get less of a caffeine fix.
The anti-inflammatory properties in rooibos can help to reduce period-related pain because the properties in this tea are able to stimulate the production of potassium in your system. Also, the antioxidants aspalathin, nothofagin, and quercetin are great because they can decrease oxidative stress, including in your vaginal area. This is good to know because this kind of stress has been directly linked to fibroids, endometriosis, and the overproduction of vaginal mucus.
So, what are you waiting for? Rooibos is just waiting to do your body good — vagina and all!
To learn more about all things vaginal health and wellness, check out the xoNecole Women's Health section here.
Featured image by Getty Images
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Different puzzle pieces are creating bigger pictures these days. 2024 will mark a milestone on a few different levels, including the release of my third book next June (yay!).
I am also a Professional Certified Coach. My main mission for attaining that particular goal is to use my formal credentials to help people navigate through the sometimes tumultuous waters, both on and offline, when it comes to information about marriage, sex and relationships that is oftentimes misinformation (because "coach" is a word that gets thrown around a lot, oftentimes quite poorly).
I am also still super devoted to helping to bring life into this world as a doula, marriage life coaching will always be my first love (next to writing, of course), a platform that advocates for good Black men is currently in the works and my keystrokes continue to be devoted to HEALTHY over HAPPY in the areas of holistic intimacy, spiritual evolution, purpose manifestation and self-love...because maturity teaches that it's impossible to be happy all of the time when it comes to reaching goals yet healthy is a choice that can be made on a daily basis (amen?).
If you have any PERSONAL QUESTIONS (please do not contact me with any story pitches; that is an *editorial* need), feel free to reach out at missnosipho@gmail.com. A sistah will certainly do what she can. ;)
Exclusive: Gabrielle Union On Radical Transparency, Being Diagnosed With Perimenopause And Embracing What’s Next
Whenever Gabrielle Union graces the movie screen, she immediately commands attention. From her unforgettable scenes in films like Bring It On and Two Can Play That Game to her most recent film, in which she stars and produces Netflix’s The Perfect Find, there’s no denying that she is that girl.
Off-screen, she uses that power for good by sharing her trials and tribulations with other women in hopes of helping those who may be going through the same things or preventing them from experiencing them altogether. Recently, the Flawless by Gabrielle Union founder partnered with Clearblue to speak at the launch of their Menopause Stage Indicator, where she also shared her experience with being perimenopausal.
In a xoNecoleexclusive, the iconic actress opens up about embracing this season of her life, new projects, and overall being a “bad motherfucker.” Gabrielle reveals that she was 37 years old when she was diagnosed with perimenopause and is still going through it at 51 years old. Mayo Clinic says perimenopause “refers to the time during which your body makes the natural transition to menopause, marking the end of the reproductive years.”
“I haven't crossed over the next phase just yet, but I think part of it is when you hear any form of menopause, you automatically think of your mother or grandmother. It feels like an old-person thing, but for me, I was 37 and like not understanding what that really meant for me. And I don't think we focus so much on the word menopause without understanding that perimenopause is just the time before menopause,” she tells us.
Gabrielle Union
Photo by Brian Thomas
"But you can experience a lot of the same things during that period that people talk about, that they experienced during menopause. So you could get a hot flash, you could get the weight gain, the hair loss, depression, anxiety, like all of it, mental health challenges, all of that can come, you know, at any stage of the menopausal journey and like for me, I've been in perimenopause like 13, 14 years. When you know, most doctors are like, ‘Oh, but it's usually about ten years, and I'm like, ‘Uhh, I’m still going (laughs).’”
Conversations about perimenopause, fibroids, and all the things that are associated with women’s bodies have often been considered taboo and thus not discussed publicly. However, times are changing, and thanks to the Gabrielle’s and the Tia Mowry’s, more women are having an authentic discourse about women’s health. These open discussions lead to the creation of more safe spaces and support for one another.
“I want to be in community with folks. I don't ever want to feel like I'm on an island about anything. So, if I can help create community where we are lacking, I want to be a part of that,” she says. “So, it's like there's no harm in talking about it. You know what I mean? Like, I was a bad motherfucker before perimenopause. I’m a bad motherfucker now, and I'll be a bad motherfucker after menopause. Know what I’m saying? None of that has to change. How I’m a bad motherfucker, I welcome that part of the change. I'm just getting better and stronger and more intelligent, more wise, more patient, more compassionate, more empathetic. All of that is very, very welcomed, and none of it should be scary.”
The Being Mary Jane star hasn’t been shy about her stance on therapy. If you don’t know, here’s a hint: she’s all for it, and she encourages others to try it as well. She likens therapy to dating by suggesting that you keep looking for the right therapist to match your needs. Two other essential keys to her growth are radical transparency and radical acceptance (though she admits she is still working on the latter).
"I was a bad motherfucker before perimenopause. I’m a bad motherfucker now, and I'll be a bad motherfucker after menopause. Know what I’m saying? None of that has to change. How I’m a bad motherfucker, I welcome that part of the change."
Gabrielle Union and Kaavia Union-Wade
Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty Images
“I hope that a.) you recognize that you're not alone. Seek out help and know that it's okay to be honest about what the hell is happening in your life. That's the only way that you know you can get help, and that's also the only other way that people know that you are in need if there's something going on,” she says, “because we have all these big, very wild, high expectations of people, but if they don't know what they're actually dealing with, they're always going to be failing, and you will always be disappointed. So how about just tell the truth, be transparent, and let people know where you are. So they can be of service, they can be compassionate.”
Gabrielle’s transparency is what makes her so relatable, and has so many people root for her. Whether through her TV and film projects, her memoirs, or her social media, the actress has a knack for making you feel like she’s your homegirl. Scrolling through her Instagram, you see the special moments with her family, exciting new business ventures, and jaw-dropping fashion moments. Throughout her life and career, we’ve seen her evolve in a multitude of ways. From producing films to starting a haircare line to marriage and motherhood, her journey is a story of courage and triumph. And right now, in this season, she’s asking, “What’s next?”
“This is a season of discovery and change. In a billion ways,” says the NAACP Image Award winner. “The notion of like, ‘Oh, so and so changed. They got brand new.’ I want you to be brand new. I want me to be brand new. I want us to be always constantly growing, evolving. Having more clarity, moving with different purpose, like, and all of that is for me very, very welcomed."
"I want you to be brand new. I want me to be brand new. I want us to be always constantly growing, evolving. Having more clarity, moving with different purpose, like, and all of that is for me very, very welcomed."
She continues, “So I'm just trying to figure out what's next. You know what I mean? I'm jumping into what's next. I'm excited going into what's next and new. I'm just sort of embracing all of what life has to offer.”
Look out for Gabrielle in the upcoming indie film Riff Raff, which is a crime comedy starring her and Jennifer Coolidge, and she will also produce The Idea of You, which stars Anne Hathaway.
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Feature image by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images
Victoria Monét Opens Up About Feeling ‘Validated’ Months After VMAs Turned Her Down To Perform
Victoria Monét has had an incredible year. Thanks to the success of the widely popular “On My Mama” that went viral, the singer/ songwriter’s Jaguar II album debuted in the top 10 of Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart. She also went on to headline her own sold-out tour. So, when the MTV VMAs happened in September, everyone was surprised to learn that Victoria’s team was told that it was “too early” for the “Smoke” artist to perform at the award show. However, a couple of months later, the mom of one received seven Grammy nominations, including “Best R&B Album” and “Record Of The Year.”
Victoria is currently in London and stopped by The Dotty Show on Apple Music and shared how she feels “validated” after being dismissed by the VMAs.
“It really does feel nice and validating because, in my head, the reason why I wanted to be a performer at the VMAs or award ceremonies like that is because I felt like I am at the place where I should. I would work really hard to put on the best show that I could, and I was excited to do so,” she said.
“And I guess the best way to describe it for me is like when you're like on a sports team, and the coach is like, ‘No, you gotta sit this one out.’ When they finally put you in, and then you score all these points, and it feels like that feeling. You're like, yes, I knew it wasn't tripping, but I knew I worked hard for this, and so it's been super validating to just have these accolades come after a moment like that, and I know the fans feel vindicated for me.
While her fans called the VMAs out on their decision, the “Moment” singer kept it cute and is still open to performing at the iconic award show. “I feel no ill towards them because it's just maybe that's just truly how they felt at the time, but I hope their mind has changed,” she admitted.
Aside from recognition from the Grammys, she has also received praise from legendary artists such as Janet Jackson, Kelly Rowland, and Usher.
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Feature image by Amy Sussman/WireImage for Parkwood