1. Why drink infusions around sport?
A natural alternative to energy drinks
Unlike industrial drinks, sports herbal teas contain no added sugars or additives. They offer healthy hydration , enriched with adaptogenic, antioxidant or remineralizing plants , which support the effort while respecting the body's balance.
Targeted effects depending on the time of practice
Drinking the right plants at the right time allows you to:
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Boost energy before exercise
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Improve breathing and avoid cramps during
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Reduce inflammation , acidity and pain after
2. The ideal plants before sport
Drinking an infusion 30 to 60 minutes before exercise helps prepare the body and naturally boost energy. Here are the most recommended:
Green tea (Camellia sinensis)
Rich in antioxidant catechins and natural caffeine , green tea improves alertness, increases fat oxidation , and supports endurance. It's perfect for cardio activities or resistance sports.
Recommended tea from Chic des Plantes!: Freshness of Japan – organic green tea, sweet mint, peppermint, fennel.
Mate (Ilex paraguariensis)
Mate is a South American plant rich in theobromine , which stimulates without causing nervousness. It increases mental and physical energy, improves mood, and promotes fat mobilization .
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Fresh or dried ginger stimulates blood circulation, gently warms the body, and has a mild anti-inflammatory effect. It's ideal for morning or winter sessions.
Recommended infusion Chic des Plantes!: Chic Chai – ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, lemongrass and cloves.
3. Plants to favor during exercise
During sport, the goal is to maintain hydration , limit acidity, promote oxygenation and avoid cramps.
Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis)
Naturally caffeine-free, rooibos is rich in minerals (potassium, magnesium, calcium). It helps reduce oxidative stress linked to physical exertion.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
It facilitates breathing , provides an immediate feeling of freshness and can relieve minor digestive problems during exercise (bloating, mild nausea).
Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, hibiscus supports blood pressure regulation and combats dehydration, especially in hot weather.
Recommended infusion Chic des Plantes!: Ruby Water – hibiscus, verbena, red fruits.
4. Plants to promote recovery
Recovery is an essential phase for repairing muscle fibers , remineralizing the body and preventing muscle soreness.
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Rich in silica, iron and calcium , nettle helps eliminate toxins generated by exercise, drains the kidneys and remineralizes deeply.
Recommended infusion Chic des Plantes!: Belle Plante – nettle, rose, ash, raspberry, linden, pink berry.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Thanks to its key molecule, curcumin , turmeric is a recognized natural anti-inflammatory . It helps soothe muscle and joint pain.
Recommended infusion Chic des Plantes!: L'Eau d'Or – turmeric, ginger, coconut, cinnamon, lemon, fennel, black pepper.
German chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile calms the nervous system, promotes muscle relaxation and restful sleep. Perfect after an evening session.
Recommended infusion Chic des Plantes!: L’Élancée – matricaria chamomile, red vine, ash, linden, ginger, bergamot, marshmallow.
5. Summary table of plants by time of effort
| Time of day | Recommended plants | Main benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Before the effort | Green tea, mate, ginger | Stimulation, concentration, warm-up |
| During the effort | Rooibos, hibiscus, mint | Hydration, minerals, oxygenation, respiration |
| After the effort | Nettle, turmeric, chamomile | Recovery, anti-inflammatory, relaxation, mineralization |
6. Food and drinks to avoid around sport
Before sport
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Avoid fatty meals or meals that are too rich in fiber (slow digestion).
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Limit excessive caffeine , which can cause jitters or an energy spike followed by fatigue.
During sport
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Avoid overly sweet drinks, sodas or industrial juices .
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Beware of so-called “energy” drinks that are too rich in stimulants or sodium.
After sport
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Limit alcohol , which is very dehydrating.
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Avoid processed or highly salty foods , which increase inflammation.
7. Tips for staying hydrated while exercising
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Before : drink 500 ml of water 2 hours before, then 200 ml just before exercise.
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During : 150–250 ml every 20 min for long efforts.
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After : rehydrate with 1.5 liters of water for each kilo lost.
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In addition : hot or iced infusions , rich in minerals, for a beneficial and tasty water intake.
