THE ROLE OF HERBAL TEA IN FUNCTIONAL FOODS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF HEALTH BENEFITS AND APPLICATIONS

Herbal tea has emerged as a key component in the development of functional foods, offering a wide range of health benefits and applications. This comprehensive review explores the role of herbal teas in promoting health and wellness, focusing on their rich content of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants. These compounds contribute to various health-promoting properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting effects. The incorporation of herbal teas in functional foods enhances their nutritional value and provides therapeutic potential in managing chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and digestive disorders. Additionally, herbal teas are applied in diverse food products, such as beverages, baked goods, and dietary supplements, where their flavor, aroma, and health-promoting properties are utilized. This review highlights the growing interest in herbal teas as functional ingredients and their promising role in improving overall well-being through dietary innovation. The review also addresses key considerations such as safety measures, quality control, and regulatory frameworks to ensure the effective use of herbal teas in functional food products. Additionally, it highlights future opportunities for innovation, including the development of unique herbal tea blends and their combined impact on promoting health and wellness.