Varieties Of Tea With Health Benefits
Tea has been around for centuries and is thoroughly enjoyed by people around the globe. Besides being refreshing and delicious, tea provides an array of health benefits. This has caught attention of researchers and studies have found that some teas may help in the management of obesity, Type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, and high cholesterol levels. Let’s have a look at the health advantages of the world’s most popular beverage.
Green Tea
Studies have observed that among all the tea varieties available in the market, the most significant health benefits have been observed with the consumption of green tea. It was exported to India from Japan for the first time during the 17th century. Unlike black tea, green tea is less processed, which preserves the polyphenols and their health-promoting properties. Catechins are the compounds present in green tea, which are responsible for the various health advantages. Consumption of green tea has been linked to:
- Prevention of many types of cancers
- Blood pressure control
- Reduced risk of stroke and heart diseases
- Management of high blood glucose level
- Weight loss as well as fat loss
Besides this, green tea is effective in treating diarrhea and typhoid. It further possesses anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial activities and it helps in the treatment of peptic ulcers by inhibiting the bacteria, which causes the onset of ulcers.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is one of the world’s most popular herbal tea. It is an amazing stress-reliever and is loaded with antioxidants that may help in fighting against several diseases. Chamomile tea fights insomnia and induces sedation. The calming effect of this tea is attributed to the presence of ‘apigenin’, a compound that binds to the receptors in the brain and promotes sleepiness. Chamomile tea is also helpful in the treatment of common cold symptoms. Consumption of this tea further shortens the course of diarrhea and can be used safely to treat infant colic disorders.
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea and it possesses anti-obesity effects. Studies have found that oolong tea has the ability to reduce body fat as well as body weight by improving fat metabolism. Thus, it is beneficial for weight-watchers. Besides this, regular consumption of oolong tea is advantageous for individuals with high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Health-promoting compounds present in oolong tea inhibit the enzyme that causes storage of fat in the body. Hence, it helps in lowering high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea is popular around the world for its effectiveness in lowering high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol levels. Research has observed that anthocyanins, a healthy compound present in hibiscus tea helps the arteries and blood vessels to relax, which ensures smooth blood flow all throughout the body. It prevents constriction of the arteries and reduces the risk of heart diseases too. Furthermore, other compounds in hibiscus tea inhibit the enzyme that causes synthesis of bad cholesterol in the body, thus it also hinders atherosclerosis. Hence, daily consumption of hibiscus tea has a favorable influence on lipid profiles and it also lowers high blood pressure in individuals with moderate hypertension
Spearmint Tea
Spearmint is a member of the peppermint family and it contains various nourishing compounds that keep you fit and healthy. Spearmint tea possess powerful antibacterial activity, that helps to stave off infections and boosts the immune system. This tea is an excellent remedy for eliminating nausea and an upset stomach. Hirsutism or excess facial hair growth in females is a common feature of PCOS. Scientific studies have observed that intake of spearmint tea twice a day reduces male sex hormones in females with PCOS and reduces hirsutism. Therefore, spearmint tea is a natural and helpful treatment for females with PCOS.
White Tea
Between the tea varieties (black and green), white tea is the least processed and abundant with nutrients. This healthy beverage strengthens the immune system and keeps diseases and disorders at bay. It eases the symptoms of illness and speeds up quick recovery. Besides this, white tea promotes healthy hair, skin and strong bones and teeth. This natural tonic reduces stress and anxiety, increases energy levels and keeps you alert. The high antioxidant content of white tea protects the healthy cells of the body against attack by free radicals and suppresses oxidative stress. Hence, it is useful in the management of cancer, where oxidative stress is the culprit.
A Word Of Caution:
- Though the above mentioned teas are healthy, consuming tea in excess quantities is not recommended.
- Do not have more than 1-2 cups of tea per day.
- Do not replace water with tea.