In the scorching summer, people enjoying cool air indoors are prone to “air conditioning sickness,” experiencing symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, sore limbs, and dry skin.
“Air conditioning sickness” is caused by factors such as dry indoor air, poor air circulation leading to increased bacteria, and large temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments.
In addition to improving indoor air circulation, we can also alleviate symptoms by drinking tea.
But what kind of tea is best?
Ginger Tea to Remove Cold from the Body
In an air-conditioned environment, feeling dizzy and fatigued can be attributed to the accumulation of cold in the body.
Ginger has the effect of warming the middle and dispelling cold, as well as inducing sweating and relieving exterior conditions. Simply steep 3 to 5 slices of ginger in boiling water, and drinking it will help remove the cold.
To enhance its effectiveness, you can boil the ginger slices in water for 5 minutes or heat them in a microwave at high power for 3 minutes.
It's important to note that hot ginger tea can dispel the cold in your body and boost your immunity.
If you experience noticeable discomfort in your stomach, adding a bit of agastache to the ginger tea can effectively remove dampness from your body.
Osmanthus Oolong Tea for Moisturizing the Skin
Oolong tea, being semi-fermented, aids digestion and reduces greasiness, with less stimulation to the stomach compared to green tea.
Osmanthus tea effectively detoxifies, moistens the lungs, and relieves dry skin.
Drinking osmanthus oolong tea, which combines their respective benefits, can help alleviate skin discomfort in an air-conditioned and dehumidified environment.
For brewing, it's best to use a purple clay pot and 100°C boiling water to first steep the oolong tea. Once the tea has fully infused, add dried osmanthus flowers, and then it's ready to serve.
White Tea for Effective Bacterial Killing
The poorly ventilated air-conditioned room becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, and sedentary individuals who work long hours and exercise little become their targets.
According to an article published in the American “Science Daily” titled “White Tea Has Better Bacterial Killing Effects than Green Tea,” extracts of white tea have preventive effects against infections such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, and pneumonia.
Moreover, white tea produces a clear yellow-green infusion with a light and sweet aftertaste. On a sweltering summer day when one feels sleepy, white tea is worth trying both visually and tactilely.
In addition to improving “air conditioning sickness” through drinking tea, we should also avoid direct exposure to air conditioning, exercise more, regularly open windows for ventilation, clean the air conditioner regularly, and ensure adequate sleep.
By addressing both internal and external aspects, we can strengthen our defenses against “air conditioning sickness,” ensuring good health while enjoying the pleasant indoor temperatures of summer.