As summer rolls in with a vengeance, the last thing you might be thinking of drinking is hot tea. However, the various health benefits may outweigh the heat. Teas derived from Camellia sinensis, like green teas, black teas, and the like are known for having a high antioxidant content, specifically flavonoids. You might remember from an earlier article that flavonoids, also present in dark chocolate, can mitigate the impact of free radicals, reducing some cancers and cardiac complications and improving arterial health.
Green tea is thought to reduce the risk of neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It has the highest flavonoid content in this group of teas and can lower bad cholesterol and blood pressure. It’s also anti-inflammatory and promotes healthy skin! Matcha is a powder made from green tea and is thought to deliver even more of the same benefits as it is much more concentrated.
Black tea is made from the dried and fermented leaves of the same plant but the process produces a much richer taste. With black tea you get some of the same benefits as green tea and it can also be used as a compress for dermatitis to alleviate inflammation.
Oolong tea is another Camellia sinensis tea and is partially fermented, though not as completely as black tea. The Oolong benefits package is very close to that of black and green tea and the caffeine content is also somewhere in between the first two teas. All three teas are sometimes referred to as true teas; drinking them is considered overall beneficial. It’s important to consider the fact that all of these teas have some amount of caffeine.
If you are looking for something without the caffeine kick, you might try herbal tea instead. A few common ones include dandelion tea, which is great for kidney and urinary tract health. Echinacea tea is a common and effective way to boost your immune system. Chamomile tea is not only relaxing but may be preventative of diabetes, kidney damage and cancer. Ginger tea is great for digestive health and may also be helpful with inflammation of the joints. This makes it a great choice for those that suffer from arthritis. The possible benefits are honestly endless when you start looking into the herbal options. Tea might not be as integral in American life as, say, coffee has become, but it might be a habit we consider adopting if supporting our health is number one!
Resources:
The Hidden Health Benefits of Tea | Penn Medicine
Types of Teas and Their Health Benefits
Oolong Tea vs Black Tea: Which One is Healthier? – Sencha Tea Bar