The health benefits of tea include relief from cancer, early aging, gum disorders, fatigue, fever, depression, dental care, etc.
Tea is undoubtedly the most popular beverage in the world and the results of innumerable researches on tea leaves very little scope to doubt its great medicinal values. It is believed that Chinese were the first to discover the medicinal values of tea and use it as a beverage. They considered it as a tonic which could stop aging, promote youth & vitality and ensured a long life, which is why only the Noble descendents were allowed to drink it and it was kept secret for long. After it was introduced, it literally made the world go crazy after it. Tea is scientifically known as Camellia Sinensis. Tea is graded on the basis of its flavor and taste, which mainly comes from an alkaloid called Tannin. It is also graded on the size of the leaves, cut, grains etc. which decide its price in the market. Well! Enough of commerce for now!
Let us see against which ailments, tea can be beneficial for us. The health benefits of tea include the following:
- Cancer: Many studies have proved that tea is rich in Polyphenols like Catechins and some variants of Catechins, present in its Flavonoids and attributing to its rich aroma, have high anti oxidant properties and are effective in preventing growth of tumors and cancer, particularly of liver, intestines, prostrate, kidneys, breasts and lungs. The alkaloids like Tannin and Caffeine present in tea also help inhibiting growth of cancerous cells.
- Aging & Oxidation: As believed in China long-long ago, and as proved now, anti oxidants in tea can really slow down aging process by preventing the free radicals (oxidants) from damaging the metabolic, circulatory and respiratory and nervous systems through oxidation. These anti oxidants effectively neutralize the free radicals. Green Tea or White Tea, added with lemon/lime juice is supposed to be more beneficial in this regard. Tea can also help delay loss of vision, macular degeneration, loosening of muscles etc. induced by aging.
- Depression & Fatigue: Tea is a great anti depressant and energizer. Actually the alkaloids, Tannin and Caffeine, present in tea are very quick and efficient natural stimulants. Drinking tea gives immediate relief in fatigue, stimulates the brain and elevates mood. It also lessens the feeling of cold during cold seasons. It is very effective to drive away sleepiness. The best part of it is that its effects are almost immediate. An amino acid L-Theanine, present in tea, increases alertness of the brain.
- Fever, Infections & Immune System: Alkaloids like Tannin and Caffeine, present in tea, are powerful disinfectants and have high anti microbial, anti viral and germicidal properties. This is due to the fact that all alkaloids (Tannin, Caffeine, Nicotine, Strictine etc.) are actually poisons, mild or harsh, for living cells. If consumed in concentrated form or high dosage, they can be fatal for human. But since consumed in very low dosages, they kill only the germs. Anyway, that is why tea helps relieving fever and preventing infections. The anti oxidants in tea also strengthen immune system. Oxalates and Polyphenols like Catechin and Epigallocatechin Gallate, present in tea, are also found effective in checking growth of HIV virus.
- Gums & Teeth: Tannin in tea is an alkaloid and has strong astringent properties. If taken without sugar, it neutralizes acids in the mouth and also destroys germs, being alkaline in nature. The astringent part of it fastens the gums firmly on teeth, preventing them from loosening and falling. Tannin also prevents hair fall and strengthens its roots, if applied externally. So, many people wash their hair with black tea.
- Diabetes & Metabolism: Tea stimulates metabolism which results in faster consumption (breaking down) of sugar and lowering of its level in blood. This way it releases energy and also helps diabetic people.
- Skin & Muscles: The astringent properties of tea tone up skin and muscles and gives you a younger look.
- Other Benefits: Tea is a stress reliever. It also gives temporary relief in nervous disorders and induces a feel good factor.
Few Words of Caution: Tea is addictive and makes you habituated to this external stimulant. So, in absence of it, you may feel weak and worn out as you own energy level drops down below normal and you will eventually want more. The alkaloids Tannin and Caffeine in it can have harmful effects in the long run and can even damage lever and lung if excessively taken. This harmful effect can be minimized by adding lemon/lime juice or milk in it. Tea also kills appetite. If taken in excess or before sleep, it can cause severe sleeplessness and resultant headache.
Back to Health Benefits of Food
This article was contributed by Aparup Mukherjee.
