Tea has been regarded for centuries in the east as the key to wisdom, health, and happiness. In the west we have studied and realized that drinking black, green, oolong, white tea and herbal teas provide many health benefits. In a hectic, sometimes overwhelming world many of us are looking for ways to live healthier lifestyles.
Studies have found that drinking tea may help with cancer, diabetes, weight loss, and help lower cholesterol. Tea can also inspire and change moods. Tea can be calming, energizing, uplifting, healing, or focusing. It can be used as a digestive aid, sleep aid, help calm nerves, soothe illness, energize, and to promote mental alertness. Black teas are filled with antioxidants known as flavonoids and polyphenols that detoxify cell-damaging free radicals in the body.
Some may ask, doesn’t tea have more caffeine than coffee? This is a common misconception as tea only has more caffeine before it is processed, fermented or aged. Tea is a healthy alternative to sugary beverages and sodas as well as coffee which contains much more caffeine than tea. I always keep a large dispenser of cold brewed unsweetened herbal tea in the refrigerator and at my office to keep me hydrated while receiving many health benefits. When I am feel tired and sluggish instead of coffee I like to substitute green tea, herbal tea or chai who’s spiciness warms and energizes me.
Rooibos, known as red tea is caffeine-free and highly beneficial for bones, skin, heart, and immune system. It is rich in calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. One of my favorites especially when blended with herbals.
Herbal teas are made from herbs, fruits, seeds, and roots. They all possess different chemical compositions and health benefits. They have anti-aging properties, can ease anxiety and stress, lower blood pressure and sugar, improve digestion, and relieve nausea.
Black , green , oolong, and pu’erh tea are all from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Each type of tea is processed, fermented and aged differently resulting in different caffeine content, color, flavor and health benefits. These teas can promote strong bones, good oral health, reduce stress, increase energy, promote good gut health, and fight off free radicals that cause disease.
There are many great health benefits in your cup of tea!
