Tea is undoubtedly one of the most popular luxury foods worldwide. The warm drink is not only for enjoyment, but also offers a variety of health benefits. In the meantime, numerous scientific studies have been able to prove that the consumption of tea is associated with positive effects on health.
The variety of teas
Real tea is made from the tea plant Camellia Sinensis. Depending on the time of harvest and the manufacturing process, green tea, black tea or white tea, which is less well known in this country, is produced from the leaves of the plant. The leaves of the tea plant contain numerous healthy nutrients that can promote health and well-being in a variety of ways.
According to the legal definition, herbal and fruit teas are not tea, but “tea-like products”. These differ from real tea primarily in that they contain no stimulating theine. Depending on the type, herbal and fruit teas also contain various minerals, vitamins and other nutrients. There are numerous medicinal plants that can counteract various health problems in a natural way in the form of herbal tea.
The beneficial effects of green and black tea
Green tea contains large amounts of various phytochemicals such as flavonoids. A wide range of health-promoting effects is ascribed to them. Flavonoids have an antibacterial effect, strengthen the immune system and have been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. According to studies, drinking green tea causes blood vessels to become more elastic and flexible. It is also believed that tea can reduce the risk of developing cancer, heart attacks and cardiovascular diseases. Green tea is also often recommended for weight loss because it reduces cravings, stimulates digestion and is a calorie-free alternative to other drinks.
Black tea is also made from the leaves of the tea plant, but is more processed than green tea. During production, the leaves are dried, fermented and then roasted at high heat. Green tea, on the other hand, is only heated briefly, which means that a large part of the valuable ingredients are retained. As a result, green tea contains significantly larger amounts of vitamins A, B, C, E and K as well as various minerals such as potassium, copper, fluorine and sodium. Green tea also contains larger amounts of flavonoids than black tea. Black tea, on the other hand, contains theaflavins, which are formed during oxidation. Although the antioxidant effect decreases during fermentation, black tea also contains healthy ingredients that contribute to vascular protection, among other things.
The awakening effect of tea
In addition to its many positive effects on health, tea also influences the human psyche. Both black and green tea contain large amounts of theine. Theine has the same chemical structure as caffeine and therefore has a very similar effect. Because consumption of green and black tea raises blood pressure, certain groups of people should not consume excessive amounts. Pregnant women and people with high blood pressure or sleep problems should therefore consume tea with caution and, if in doubt, consult their doctor.
Black tea contains more theine and is therefore more stimulating than green tea. 200 milliliters of the drink usually contain between 40 and 100 milligrams of the active ingredient. Since theine, unlike caffeine, is bound to polyphenols, the substance is only released in the intestine. As a result, the stimulating effect of the tea sets in a little later and lasts longer. For this reason, it is recommended to drink the last green or black tea in the early afternoon so as not to disturb the night's sleep. However, if you don't want to go without your tea in the late afternoon or evening, you can extend the brewing time to reduce the waking effect. A longer brewing time means that more tannins are released from the tea, which bind the cein. You can find more information about the correct preparation and enjoyment of tea in the TeaClub Tea Blog.
The versatile healing effects of herbal teas
Even if fruit and herbal tea is not strictly tea, most people refer to it as tea. All over the world there are numerous medicinal herbs, fruits and spices whose health-promoting properties have been known for many centuries. Each of these plants has its special area of application – from colds to menstrual cramps to headaches.
Herbal and fruit teas can therefore be used as a natural remedy for various physical and mental ailments:
- Chamomile tea is known for its soothing and disinfecting effects. The tea can help with inner restlessness, as well as with abdominal pain, inflammation of the mouth and throat and other problems.
- Peppermint tea has a calming, anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant effect, among other things. The tea is used specifically for indigestion, gastrointestinal complaints, nausea, migraines and headaches.
- Fennel tea has an anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect, which is why it is used for colds and infections. In addition, the tea is considered a remedy for abdominal pain and indigestion. Due to its calming effect, it can also make it easier to fall asleep and improve the quality of sleep.
- Sage tea is often recommended for abdominal pain, bloating and digestive problems, as well as a sore throat and excessive sweating.
- Rosehip tea is particularly rich in vitamin C and therefore has a positive effect on the immune system. It also contains vitamin B, which inhibits the release of stress hormones. The tea can be drunk both for prevention and to support the treatment of a cold. It also has a diuretic and slightly laxative effect.
- Yarrow tea contains bitter substances that stimulate digestion and detoxify the body. It also has an antispasmodic effect and can be used for abdominal pain and cramps.
- Nettle tea has a blood-cleansing and blood-forming, diuretic and detoxifying effect. The drink stimulates the metabolism and cleanses the body of toxins and bacteria. For this reason, it is also considered a natural remedy for urinary tract infections.
- Lady's mantle tea is known in particular for its positive effects on the female sex. The tea has an anticonvulsant effect and is also said to strengthen the uterus and regulate the hormone balance. Due to its healing properties, the tea is particularly recommended for PMS, menstrual and menopausal symptoms.
- Hibiscus tea contains high amounts of vitamin C, so it can promote immune system health. According to studies, it also lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels, relieves the body and prevents the development of cardiovascular diseases. Due to its antibacterial and expectorant effect, it can also help with bronchitis and colds.
12/20/2022