While you may start your day off with a cup of coffee you might want to consider switching to tea. There are many different health benefits that you might not be aware of. Here are some of the most popular teas and the known health benefits to suit your needs:
White Tea
Research conducted by the NIH states that this tea may be the most effective tea in fighting various forms of cancer thanks to its high level of antioxidants. White tea may also be good for your teeth since it contains a high source of fluoride, catechins, and tannins that can strengthen teeth, fight plaque, and make them more resistant to acid and sugar. White tea also contains the least amount of antioxidants.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas are very similar to white teas, instead, they contain a blend of herbs, spices, fruits or other plants in addition to tea leaves. Herbal teas don’t contain caffeine, which is why they’re known for their calming properties.
There are numerous types of herbal teas according to Penn Medicine, each with it’s own benefit!
- Chamomile tea – Reduces menstrual pain and muscle spasms. May improve sleep and relaxation and reduce stress.
- Rooibos – May improve blood pressure and circulation, boosts good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol, keeps hair strong and skin healthy, and provides relief from allergies
- Peppermint – This contains menthol, which can soothe an upset stomach and serve as a cure for constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and motion sickness. This tea variety also offers pain relief from tension headaches and migraines.
- Ginger – Helps to fight against morning sickness, can be used to treat chronic indigestion, and helps to relieve joint pain caused by osteoarthritis
- Hibiscus – May lower blood pressure and fat levels, improves overall liver health, can starve off cravings for unhealthy sweets, and may prevent the formation of kidney stones
Green Tea
According to Penn Medicine, green tea is exceptionally high in flavonoids which can help boost your heart health by lowering bad cholesterol and reducing blood clotting. Studies from the NIH show this type of tea can also help lower blood pressure, triglycerides and total cholesterol.
NIH also makes claims that this tea has a possible impact on liver, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers. This tea variety has also shown to be anti-inflammatory, which helps keep your skin clear and glowing.
Matcha, a form of green tea, has recently grown in popularity. Penn Medicine states, “Matcha is a very fine, high-quality green tea powder made from the entire leaves of tea bushes grown in the shade. Since it is the only form of tea in which the leaves are ingested, matcha contains even more antioxidants than regular green tea.” Some have suggested that one cup of matcha is the equivalent of 10 cups of regular green tea.
Black Tea
Black tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, the same plant that’s used to make green tea. Benefits include reduced inflammation and immune system support. Black tea is caffeinated, so it’s important to monitor your intake.
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is known for containing l-theanine, an amino acid that reduces anxiety and increases alertness and attention. According to the NIH, scientists have found that l-theanine can help prevent cognitive diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Oolong tea is also high in polyphenols, which are linked to lowering inflammation, preventing the growth of cancers and decreasing type 2 diabetes risk.
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