So, What’s the Tea?

Tea holds cultural significance in various cultures across the world for several reasons. From the Chinese discovering the medicinal properties behind the tea plant in the 3rd century AD to having it popularised by the British at the start of the 19th century with their concept of afternoon tea, the beverage has proved to be of great importance to much of society throughout history. But what exactly makes it such a widely consumed beverage even to this day?

Science tells us that regular consumption of tea derived from a Camellia sinensis plant benefits long-term health, hence why the drink has rightfully earned its place as one of the healthiest beverages out there. Packed with caffeine and polyphenols, teas are known to be rich in antioxidants that keep you healthy. No wonder tea-lovers are so passionate about the craft!

More than just a drink

Among tea drinkers, a freshly brewed cup of tea can envelop one in its soothing warmth and offer a moment of tranquillity. As a source of nourishment, this timeless healer has captured the hearts of many tea drinkers around the world throughout history. Tea flavours vary depending on where the leaves are harvested and how they are processed and grown. Among the most popular teas are black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea, each contributing its own unique handful of health benefits.

(photo from Olly)

Black tea for better heart health

Often praised as the healthiest tea, studies find that incorporating black tea into your daily routine can help lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes, and other heart diseases. This is all thanks to the component in black teas known as flavonoids, a family of polyphenolic compounds that have long been associated with medicinal benefits.

Green tea to fight inflammation

The anti-inflammatory elements in green tea are a great weapon against chronic inflammation, which is related to various other illnesses, including cancer and dementia. Moreover, green tea contains a type of polyphenol called catechins that aids in preventing cell damage.

White tea for mental clarity

Along with all the benefits that both black and green tea offer, white tea is equipped with a gentle caffeine boost that helps to improve mental clarity. Other compounds found in white tea work alongside caffeine to help improve cognitive functions such as memory retention and attention span.

Oolong tea for bone health

One of the unique perks of oolong tea lies within its levels of theaflavins and Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), also under polyphenols, that keep your bones and teeth strong. Positive effects on bone mineral density were proven to be a contribution of oolong tea, which pointed to a lowered risk of fractures.

With over 3,000 varieties to explore, one is bound to suit your needs and taste buds. The movement towards a more health-conscious lifestyle is not old news in the modern world. You may not be a tea drinker but you can still indulge in this tastiest form of self-care and sustenance.