Cup of Health Wonder

Reaping Health Benefits with Tea

“A cup of tea would restore my normality."
- Douglas Adams

 That’s what that humble cuppa of most versatile beverage does to senses!

There are as many myths and legends surrounding the origin of tea as there are varieties of tea. The ceremony of tea is etched in deep traditions in cultures across the world.  Originating in China, possibly as early as 2737 B.C., it spread far and wide along with traders, missionaries and explorers.

There is nothing that a cup of tea can’t fix! The medicinal properties of tea, regardless of whether it is black, green or oolong variety, have been known for thousands of years. There is plethora of research regarding benefits of tea on health, therefore, a cup of tea is not just savoured for refreshment; rather every sip is loaded with goodness and well-being.

1. Contains Antioxidants

Green tea is considered to unleash health benefits due to its high antioxidant content, namely polyphenol compounds which have been backed by research to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. They are believed to be powerful inflammation fighters, n fact, the Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in green tea has been found to be 100 times more potent than the antioxidant power of super vitamin C.

2. Healthy for Brain

It is believed that regular tea consumption may lower the risk of getting neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Although the exact relation is unclear yet research studies have confirmed that drinking green and black tea leads to improvement in cognitive scores of those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

3. Enhances Memory

Further, tea boosts memory and increases attention span and the combination of caffeine and L-theanine prevents cognitive decline. It improves concentration, reaction time and enhances information processing.

4. Boosts Metabolism

The polyphenols in tea rev up the metabolism by increasing calorie expenditure and reducing body fat.

5. Improves Oral Hygiene

Researchers in Japan have shed light on how tea can decrease tooth loss as it changes pH balance in the mouth, which may help prevent cavities. Further, unlike soda-based beverages, tea does not erode tooth enamel.

6. Improves Immunity

Tea has been consumed since centuries and its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties studied much. It is believed that when fortified with ginger and holy basil, tea kick-starts the immune system after illness or injury, thus making recovery and healing faster.

7. Soothes the Digestive System

Chamomile, the herbal tea is a natural antispasmodic which works effectively for people with irritable bowel syndrome. On the other hand, ginger tea is helpful for calming nausea.

8. Improves Heart Health

Research shows tea helps in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure; which keeps the heart healthy. Further, reduced risk of heart disease has been observed in people who drink green or black tea regularly.

9. Weight Management

The extract in Green tea is rich in catechins, which aids in weight loss by increasing the number of calories body burns through thermogenesis. Green tea boosts this process of burning calories, which leads to weight loss.

10. Good for Skin

People in East Asian cultures vouch for the positive impact of green tea on improving skin elasticity by providing a moisturizing effect. Research has demonstrated how green tea extract can help treat a variety of skin problems, such as dermatitis, rosacea and warts, as well as skin aging and acne. It’s no wonder that modern cosmetic brands add green tea extract to the skin products as it has been shown to benefit the skin immensely.

Now taking into account the multiple benefits of tea, what’s stopping you from reaching out to the cup of steaming brew!!

Nidhi Jakhar