Herbal tea and raw honey are two natural products that may have some benefits for longevity when consuming them regularly:
- Herbal tea, especially green tea, contains antioxidants that may protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to aging and chronic diseases. Green tea also contains a polyphenol called EGCG, which may extend the lifespan of some organisms.
- Raw honey, especially from regions like Ikaria, Greece, where people live longer than average, may have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that may boost the immune system and prevent infections. Honey may also improve blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and neurological conditions, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes
The Blue Zones: Secrets for Living Longer author Dan Buettner explores lifestyle habits central to centenarians long, healthy, and fulfilling lives in his new Netflix docuseries Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones.
In this riveting docuseries, Ikari, Greece share common traits with other blue zones for longevity, however, unique to Ikarians, Dan Buettner found they are heavy sage, rosemary and mallow tea drinkers which are loaded with antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is linked to everything from heart disease and arthritis, to a shorter healthspan and lifespan, but anti-inflammatory drinks can help. The other unique contributor is raw Ikarian honey. Most store-bought honey has been boiled, which destroys the pollen grains but Ikarian honey isn’t pasteurized or boiled—it goes straight from the bee to your tea.
Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones is available for streaming now on Netflix.