People all over the world have been drinking tea for thousands of centuries, and for good reason. Numerous studies have shown that they may boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.
While some brews provide more health advantages than others, there’s plenty of evidence that regularly drinking it can have a lasting impact on your wellness.
Put the kettle on, because we’re sharing some of the biggest benefits of the world’s most popular teas.
White Tea Benefits
Research shows it may be the most effective one in fighting various forms of cancer thanks to its high level of antioxidants. It may also be good for your teeth since it contains a high source of fluoride, catechins and tannins that can strengthen teeth, fight plaque, and make it more resistant to acid and sugar.
This variety also offers the least amount of caffeine, making it a smart choice for its drinkers who want to avoid or limit their caffeine consumption.
Herbal Tea Benefits
Sometimes called tisanes, these are very similar to white teas, but they contain a blend of herbs, spices, fruits or other plants in addition to tea leaves. Herbal ones don’t contain caffeine, which is why they’re known for their calming properties.
There are numerous types, all with their unique benefits. Some of the most popular types include:
- Chamomile– Helps to reduce menstrual pain and muscle spasms, improves sleep and relaxation, and reduces stress
- Rooibos – Improves blood pressure and circulation, boosts good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol, keeps hair strong and skin healthy, and provides relief from allergies
- Peppermint – Contains menthol, which can soothe an upset stomach and serve as a cure for constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and motion sickness. This variety also offers pain relief from tension headaches and migraines.
- Ginger – Helps to fight against morning sickness, can be used to treat chronic indigestion and helps to relieve joint pain caused by osteoarthritis
- Hibiscus – Lowers blood pressure and fat levels, improves overall liver health, can starve off cravings for unhealthy sweets, and may prevent the formation of kidney stones
Green Tea Benefits
It originates from China, where the leaves are processed with heat using a pan-firing or roasting method and Japan, where the leaves are more commonly steamed.
It is exceptionally high in flavonoids that can help boost your heart health by lowering bad cholesterol and reducing blood clotting. Studies show this type of tea can also help lower blood pressure, triglycerides and total cholesterol.
Other research has found that it has a possible impact on liver, breast, prostate and colorectal cancers. This tea variety has also shown to be anti-inflammatory, which helps keep your skin clear and glowing.
In recent years, matcha – a form of it – has grown in popularity. Matcha is a very fine, high-quality powder made from the entire leaves of tea bushes grown in the shade. Since it is the only form in which the leaves are ingested, matcha contains even more antioxidants. In fact, some have suggested that one cup of matcha is the equivalent to 10 cups of regular green tea.
Black Tea Benefits
It is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. However, the leaves are dried and fermented, giving it a darker color and richer flavor.
Unlike many other varieties, it is caffeinated, so it’s important to monitor your intake. When you do pour yourself a cup, you benefit from flavonoids that combat inflammation and support healthy immune function.
However, you don’t have to merely drink it to benefit from its healthy properties. It can be steamed, cooled and then pressed on minor cuts, scrapes and bruises to relieve pain and reduce swelling. A bath in it can also ease inflammation caused by skin rashes and conditions such as poison ivy.
https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2019/december/health-benefits-of-tea
