Hot or cold, green, black, white or herbal, for more than 5000 years, we consume tea for its refreshing taste, energizing boost and health benefits.

Each tea has unique benefits, yet with a humble cup of tea, our body and mind get many essential nutrients we might not be aware of. However, which tea should we drinking? Which kind is the best? And why should we drink it?

Tea contains powerful compounds that have many health benefits. It is composed of polyphenols, alkaloids (caffeine), amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, fluoride, aluminum, and minerals.

Health benefits of tea are well documented, with numerous studies showing why we should enjoy a cup of tea.

The reason tea is one of the healthiest beverages in the world is due to antioxidants (polyphenols) and phytochemicals.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition featured many studies that explain the benefits of tea, presenting numerous reasons why tea is a mighty health booster: Tea could help reduce the risk of heart attack and help protect against cardiovascular and degenerative diseases.

Thus, which tea is the healthiest?

The antioxidants help protect against many cancers (stomach, skin, lung, breast, colon, liver). Tea helps destroy and fight free radicals (the damage of these free radicals is linked to heart disease and cancer).

• Tea is linked with a lower risk of Parkinson’s disease in both men and women.
• It is a hydrating drink despite caffeine; it maintains normal hydration.
• Tea protects from ultraviolet rays (green tea polyphenols protect from ultraviolet injury).
• Tea can counteract the negative effects of smoking.
• Green tea might improve bone mineral density and protect against fracture.
• Tea is found to be beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes (green tea helps the better process of sugars)
• Antioxidants and caffeine increase metabolism and promote weight loss.
• Tea is found to be effective in the treatment of neurological diseases.
• Antioxidants increase the body’s ability to burn fat (and could improve muscle endurance).
• Tea helps with learning, memory, concentration and performance.

First, you need to know the difference between tea varieties. Green, black, oolong and white teas are derived from one particular plant Camellia sinensis (they undergo different processes). Herbal tea, which isn’t technically a tea, is an infusion of a different plant.

 

Black Tea

It contains the most caffeine (40 milligrams per cup) and has a bitter flavor.

Black tea contains thearubigins and theaflavin, antioxidants that help lower cholesterol levels. Traditional cuppa is rich in manganese and fluoride, which keeps the bones strong.

To sum up, black tea contains:

• Caffeine
• Amino acids
• Carbohydrates
• Potassium
• Manganese
• Fluoride
• Polyphenols
• Proteins

 

What about black tea health benefits?

Relieves stress

One study at University College London found that black tea decreases the levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Studies show that the amino acid L-theanine helps us relax and concentrate better.

 

Improves cardiovascular health

If you drink three or more cups of black tea daily, you will cut the risk of stroke by 21 percent, scientists at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm found in a study that involved 75,000 men and women.

According to Boston’s School of Medicine, black tea reverses the abnormal functioning of blood vessels and prevents strokes and cardiovascular problems.

A research paper called “ Green and black tea consumption and risk of stroke: a meta-analysis”, shows that individuals who consume 3 or more cups of tea have a 21% lower risk of a stroke than people who drink less than 1 cup of tea per day.

 

Lowers the risk of diabetes

Based on a research study, people who had been consuming black tea on a long-term basis on a moderate level, 1-2 cups a day, had a 70% lower chance of having or developing type 2 diabetes.

 

Oral Health

Polyphenols in black tea kill cavity-causing bacteria. Studies suggest that black tea reduces plaque formation and restricts the growth of bacteria that promotes tooth decays.
Improves Digestion

Black tea is rich in tannins that have a positive effect on the digestive system, which means that black tea can help with digestive disorders.

 

Cancer Prevention

According to studies and research have done through the years, it is suggested that antioxidants like polyphenol and catechins in tea may help prevent some types of cancer. However, a lot more research is required to confirm these suggestions.

Remember: putting milk in black tea reduces the antioxidant value.

 

Relieves an upset stomach

A cup of black tea may help you with an upset stomach. The compound called tannins, which is present in black tea, has a helpful astringent effect on the intestinal lining. A study showed that black tea tablets could be an effective and inexpensive way to help manage diarrhea in children with acute nonbacterial diarrhea.

 

Antibacterial benefits

Black tea possesses powerful potent antibacterial and antioxidant powers. Phenolic compounds and tannins can inhibit some types of bacteria.

Black tea can also be beneficial for the following problems and concerns:

• Due to caffeine, black tea can alleviate headaches and boost mental activity. The recommended dosage is up to 250 milligrams of caffeine per day.
• A cup of black tea each day can reduce heart attack and kidney stone risk
• One to four cups of black tea, which is 125 to 500 milliliters, each day can prevent hardening of the arteries
• When black tea is consumed with honey, it can prevent infections, including ulcers and specifically kill H. pylori bacteria

Note: Black tea is the most processed tea of all teas.

 

Green Tea

Green tea contains 25 milligrams of caffeine per cup. It is rich in antioxidants.

According to scientists from Tokyo, green tea is best for weight loss, all due to compounds that raise metabolism.

• Green tea is a healthier substitute for coffee, according to many studies, it is a stimulant
• Increases the concentration of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, and due to caffeine, green tea improves mood, memory and other brain functions
• Lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases and the risk of infections

Green tea is my favorite, I cannot hide my joy 🙂 I have already listed many health benefits of the green tea, but here I am going to remind you about them.

 

Why is green tea healthy?

Improve Brain Function Making You Smarter

Green tea does not only improve the brain functions but in a different way, helps you to improve logical thinking and reaction time and enhance memory. It also has the amino acid L-theanine that increases the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects.

According to studies, the combination of these two compounds is potent at improving brain function.

 

Improves Physical Performance

One study showed that in 10 healthy men, green tea increased energy expenditure by 4%.

Another study showed that caffeine could increase physical performance by 11-12%.

Green tea is shown to increase the processes of fat burning by boosting the metabolic rate in human controlled trials.

 

Lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

Antioxidants in green tea can protect the brain in old age. Several studies showed that catechins have different protective effects on neurons, hence the potential to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

 

Lowers the risk of Type II Diabetes

Different studies have shown how green tea can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.

A review of 7 studies that included a total of 286,701 individuals showed that people who drink green tea had an 18% lower risk of becoming diabetic.

 

Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease

Some of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease are related to the total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and green tea can help improve these factors, lowering total and LDL cholesterol and protecting the LDL particles from oxidation.

People who drink green tea have up to a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, according to studies.

 

Lowers the risk of obesity

Green tea can boost the metabolic rate and decrease body fat, especially in the abdominal area, thus could help with weight loss. One study conducted in China concluded:

“Consumption of two servings of an extra high-catechin GT leads to improvements in body composition and reduces abdominal fatness in moderately overweight Chinese subjects.”

A randomized controlled trial in 240 men and women that went on for three months concluded that the green tea test group had a significant decrease in body fat percentage, body weight, and abdominal fat.

 

May lower the risk of cancer

Oxidative damage contributes to the development of cancer and antioxidants present the potent first line of defense. Given that green tea is an excellent source of antioxidants, it can help with reducing the risk of certain types of cancer:

• One study found that women who drank the greenest tea had a 22% lower risk of developing breast cancer
• A study found that men who regularly drink green tea had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer
• A study of 69,710 Chinese women found that women who drank green tea had a 57% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer

 

Improves dental health

Several studies have shown that the catechins can inhibit the growth of the primary harmful bacteria in the mouth, Streptococcus mutans. Thus, green tea can improve dental health and lower the risk of caries.

Certain studies have shown that green tea can reduce bad breath.

 

Lowers the risk of infection

The catechins in green tea can kill bacteria and inhibit viruses such as the influenza virus, and thus potentially lowering the risk of infections.

 

Oolong tea

This is a hybrid tea with the second-highest caffeine and antioxidant levels (after green tea).
It helps lower the cholesterol, treats digestive problems and, by boosting metabolism, aids in weight loss (it activates an enzyme that dissolves triglycerides which are stored in fat cells).

It’s similar to black tea; however, it has a slightly richer taste.

The Journal of Investigative Medicine published a study that found that 2 to 3 cups of oolong tea a day results in a 10 percent increase in metabolism in women.

 

Why is Oolong Tea healthy?

Cardiovascular health

Research shows that people who drink 1 to 6 cups of Oolong tea in a week are at a lower risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases.

 

Obesity control

Oolong tea contains polyphenols that enhance the metabolism of fat in the body. Polyphenols called catechins can keep the metabolism from slowing down and aid in weight loss, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2013. Oolong tea is also rich in caffeine that is as important for increasing the chances of weight loss as the catechin.

According to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in November 2009, it seems that the tea that contains both caffeine and catechins have more benefits for weight loss than consuming either caffeine or catechin alone. People who consumed oolong tea for six weeks decreased both body weight and body fat, as reported in a study published in the Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine in 2009.

 

Free radicals protection

Although green tea showed the most significant benefits for skin protection combating free radicals, oolong tea can also help remove free radicals from the body, and slow down the aging process.

 

Oral health

Another benefit of polyphenols is preventing tooth decay. Oolong tea inhibits the growth of bacteria, which cause tooth decay and, in the long run, oral cancers. These antioxidants contribute to the improvement of dental health and hygiene as well. The randomized, double-blind, controlled studies showed that tea extract-containing mouthwashes could benefit dental health.

 

Oolong Tea combat cancer

Polyphenols like thearubigin and theaflavin, which are higher in oolong tea in comparison to other varieties, combat carcinogens and help to reduce the risk of cancer. This is because polyphenols act as chemopreventive agents to suppress the development of other forms of cancer.

Although more than 50 epidemiologic studies that were looking into the association between tea consumption and cancer risk have been published, the results have been often inconsistent. Some studies have linked tea consumption to reduced risks of prostate, lung, ovary, colon and breast cancers.

 

Treat diabetes

Due to the high concentrations of antioxidants, vitamins such as Vitamin A, and minerals such as calcium, potassium, selenium, magnesium and phosphorus, oolong tea can help in treating and preventing diabetes. Moreover, oolong tea is maybe an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes, although we need more research.

 

Stress reliever

Oolong tea acts as a stress reliever and can help alleviate mood swings. By decreasing the levels of stress, the tea helps to maintain focus and improves mental agility.

 

Skin benefits

A high concentration of antioxidants in oolong tea brings many benefits to the skin. By destroying free radicals, tea can prevent and treat many skin problems.

Minerals like calcium, manganese, copper, carotene, selenium, potassium and vitamins A, B, C, E and K are responsible for skin’s youthful appearance.

Oolong tea can also help with atopic dermatitis treatment. Infection can occur as a result of frequent scratching.

According to research, patients who use a combination of dermatological treatment and natural treatment, consuming at least 3 cups of oolong tea a day, experience more relief than patients who do not consume the tea.

 

White tea

This is the least processed tea (leaves are still in bud form). It is similar to green tea, and it has a lighter, sweeter taste.

It has 15 milligrams of caffeine per cup, and offers the same health benefits as green tea, having excellent potent antibacterial and antiviral effects.

According to one study, white tea keeps the skin’s natural elastin and collagen and blocks fat cells from forming.

 

What are the health benefits of white tea?

Treatment Of Cancer

White tea is found to be more effective than green tea in helping combat and destroy cancer cells, according to a study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research.

Another study showed that it does not only destroy the diseased cells but also protects the healthy cells from DNA damage.

Due to being a great source of antioxidants and polyphenols, white tea has more positive effects on the metabolism, blocking some of the cancer-causing effects. Another study showed that the antioxidant could inhibit the growth of prostate cancer.

Catechins are known for their excellent anti-cancer properties and given that white tea contains the highest concentration of catechins, it is an ideal healthy drink that can prevent cancer and aid in treatments.

 

Hair And Skin Health

Antioxidants have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that improve the health of skin and hair by strengthening the connective tissue and reducing allergies like dandruff or eczema.

EGCG in white tea can enhance hair growth in humans, according to a study. It has also been found that EGCG has benefits for skin conditions like psoriasis, wrinkles, rosacea and wounds. The high phenol content in white tea also strengthens elastin and collagen making the skin strong and elastic, and preventing wrinkles.

 

The Treatment Of Diabetes

Regular consumption of white tea could benefit diabetes patients. The catechins in white tea are the reason white tea is becoming an aid in treating diabetes. These antioxidants take the credit for the anti-diabetic properties of white tea. It has been found that catechins play an important role in the treatment or prevention of type 2 diabetes.

One study found that white tea burns the existing fat cells and helps to prevent the formation of new cells.

“In industrialized countries, the rising incidence of obesity-associated disorders, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, constitutes a growing problem. We have shown that white tea may be an ideal natural source of slimming substances.”

 

Weight Loss

According to the Harvard Medical School, the catechins promote weight loss.
“Caffeine and antioxidants called catechins found in green, oolong, and white teas may increase metabolism and promote weight loss. “

 

Treatment Of Acne

White tea has antiseptic and antioxidant properties and thus protects the skin from the damage caused by free radicals.

Whether you drink white tea or use it topically, the antioxidants in white tea can flush out the toxins in the body, and preventing their accumulation, aid with reducing the appearance of acne.

 

Energy and Alertness

White tea has the highest concentration of L-theanine, an amino acid that boosts alertness and increases the energy and increases the production of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. Given that the white tea contains less amount of caffeine, it is also more hydrating. This amino acid can improve memory and reaction time. According to numerous studies, the combination of L-theanine and a little amount of caffeine can lower anxiety levels.

 

Reduce Inflammation

The catechins reduce inflammation and the risk of diseases linked to chronic inflammation, in particular, cancer, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. The EGCG in white tea has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and can effectively treat cold and flu, and kill various bacteria and viruses.

 

Liver Health

The catechins offer protection against hepatitis, and according to one study, can prevent hepatitis B infection. However, keep in mind that excessive intake of catechins is also found to be toxic to the liver.

 

Heart health

According to a study, consumption of white tea for over 12 months can reverse the oxidative damage done to the heart’s cells. It is shown that catechins can lower cholesterol levels, and decreasing blood pressure and improving the functioning of the blood vessels, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

 

Good For The Teeth

Fluorides, flavonoids, and tannins in white tea are beneficial to the teeth. Tannins inhibit the formation of plaque, while flavonoids are found to prevent the growth of plaque bacteria. Unlike grees and herbal tea, white tea cannot discolor your teeth as it contains tannins in small quantities. According to another study, white tea can help to destroy the bacteria that cause cavities in the teeth.

 

Herbal tea

As we already said, herbal tea isn’t technically a tea. However, the infusion of dried fruits, herbs, seeds, roots and flowers has many health benefits we get from the plants.

 

Why is peppermint tea beneficial for health?

Peppermint plant is rich in numerous nutrients, in particular, calcium, potassium, copper, iron, and manganese and potent vitamins, C, A and B2. It is, in general, a soothing drink, recommended for muscle spasms and digestive issues.

Peppermint tea is a remedy for headaches and to treat stomach pain. A cup of this tea will also help with nausea and vomiting (motion sickness). It’s also good for mild coughs, asthma, congestion and stress.

 

What are the many benefits of chamomile tea?

The chamomile plant is one of the most used plants in folk medicine. It has a mild taste and calming flavor and an abundance of vitamins and minerals we need to keep our optimum health.

Chamomile tea is a calming tea that is usually the best aid for insomnia. In cases of cold, fever or bronchitis, chamomile is also very beneficial. People usually drink chamomile tea to help them relax and deal better with stress.

 

Why is lemon balm tea good for?

Lemon balm, or “Melissa officinalis,” is a plant that belongs to the mint family.

Lemon balm is loaded with antioxidants and contains caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and rosmarinic acid that support the body’s natural response, protecting the organism and skin in particular from the harmful organisms.

We can conclude that lemon balm tea is a winter tea for anxiety that significantly improves concentration. When mixed with peppermint tea, it helps with an upset stomach.

Lemon balm tea is also safe for children. One study showed that children slept more peacefully throughout the night and another placebo-controlled trial found that menopausal women who were suffering from interrupted sleep reported better rest after taking a valerian and lemon balm extract.

Why is nettle tea good for you?

Nettle tea is one of the best herbal teas due to the numerous health benefits of nettle.

The nettle plant contains sugar and lecithin and prostaglandins, a compound that treats inflammation. The leaves are rich with the essential minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. Both fresh and dried leaves contain proteins, and beta-carotene, and vitamins A, C, D, K and B complex.

The nettle tea helps with different common health problems, such as coughs and colds, congestion, and treat anemia, rheumatism, high blood pressure, urinary tract infection and kidney problems.

 

What’s in ginger tea good for your health?

A flowering plant that originated from China belongs to a family that is closely related to turmeric and cardamom. As chamomile and nettle, ginger has a long history of use as a folk medicine in alternative medicine. The most common health problems treated with ginger are flu, common cold, as well as stomach pain and other issues. It may be the most effective tea when it comes to pregnancy-related nausea.

The main compound in ginger responsible for its health benefits is gingerol, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Ginger tea is an energizing drink, mostly used for upset stomach and nausea. When consumed with lemon juice and honey, it is a powerful germ-fighting drink.

 

Echinacea tea health benefits

Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is one of the most effective natural remedies for cellulitis, a bacterial infection.

There are nine different species of echinacea, but only three contain medicinal value.

Echinacea Angustifolia is often referred to as Black Samson Coneflower. This specie is used mostly to remove toxins, prevent infections and treat snakebites.
It stimulates the production of white blood cells. It is known by the name Big Purple Coneflower and is used to boost the immune system.

Echinacea tea is the best prevention from the common cold and the best booster for the immune system. The tea contains vitamins A, B-complex and E and the minerals magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium and sodium. It also relieves pain and reduces inflammation.

 

Have you tried rosehip tea?

Rosa gallica and Rosa canina are two varieties of rosehip, fruit native to Asia, Europe, and North Africa. The fruit has several uses. Primarily to prevent several ailments such as osteoarthritis and stomach ailments. The common use of rosehip is as a diuretic and mild laxative.

Rosehip tea is rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, compounds that are responsible for its powerful antioxidant effect. According to science and research, rosehip tea is the best source of vitamin C; the fruit of the rose plant is great for the immune system and skin.

Rosehip tea is a powerful remedy. It can be used to treat and prevent diseases related to oxidation (heart disease, arthritis and cancer).

A study published in “Molecular Aspects of Medicine” found that rosehip tea is a significant source of lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that is linked with reduced risk of heart disease.

 

Flavored Tea

Flavored tea is a combination of aromatic extracts (cinnamon, lavender, and orange for instance) and white, black or green tea having the same levels of antioxidants and health benefits as unflavored tea.

Blueberry tea, however, contains even more antioxidants.

Lavender tea has even more powerful benefits for those who have sleep problems. Also, Lavender tea is essential for those who are dealing with asthma, cold, or bronchitis.

 

Bonus: Rooibos Tea

 

Have you tried Rooibos red tea?

The tea is known for the many health benefits for the skin. Why? It seems that rooibos tea has more powerful antioxidants than green tea. These antioxidants can prevent premature aging. Also, antioxidants keep the skin soft because they stop the movement of the free radicals in the body. The alpha-hydroxy content of the tea can reverse cell damage. It seems that the secret to beautiful and radiant skin is rooibos tea.

Rooibos herbal tea that grows exclusively in South Africa has a sweet taste and floral aroma. You can usually find naturally fermented and commercially available Rooibos tea. But the un-fermented tea, which is higher in antioxidants, is also available in some stores.

 

Why should you try Rooibos tea?

The health benefits of red rooibos tea are many. It is a natural remedy for headaches, insomnia, allergies, asthma and eczema.

This is why you should drink a cup of rooibos tea a day:

• Free from caffeine content
• Low in tannins
• Rich in iron, calcium, potassium, copper, manganese, zinc, magnesium
• Loaded with antioxidants
• Source of the flavonoids luteolin and Quercetin
• Source of vitamin C

 

The red tea has many health benefits for hair

The powerful minerals in rooibos tea can improve hair growth by strengthening hair follicles. Therefore, if you are suffering from hair loss, red tea can provide the required nutrients your hair needs.

 

Rooibos tea is good for the bones and teeth

Given rooibos tea is rich in several essential minerals, it’s no wonder the tea promotes healthy bones and teeth. Moreover, drinking rooibos tea daily may help prevent common conditions, including joint pain, osteoporosis and arthritis.

 

Redbush tea promotes a healthy weight and good digestion

The tea is rich in antispasmodic agents, which activate potassium in the body, help ease stomach cramps, and aid digestion. Proper digestion can result in health benefits for weight loss as well.

Rooibos is especially rich in quercetin. Quercetin is a super-antioxidant that has many benefits to the heart. It helps to reduce the risk of various types of cancers. The compound also fights viruses and can help to reduce the risk of many kinds of health problems.

To sum up, drink the rooibos tea either for taste or health, you will see numerous benefits.

Remember: the quality of the tea depends on its processing and the way it was brewed.

Which is your favorite tea?

 
Images credit: 123rf.com & depositphotos.com

 
Last article update: 10/9/2019