Sipping tea can be used for reasons other than unwinding. Tea has long played a major role in traditional medicine in curing a wide range of illnesses. Chinese and Japanese traditions have included tea consumption for generations to improve general health. Tea is recommended as a treatment for cold and flu symptoms, even in Western medicine.
Whether you enjoy something to warm you up in winter or cool you down in the summer, tea is the healthiest option to try year-round. Beyond their surprising benefits, teas are highly delicious and rich in flavors.
What is Tea?
Tea is a beverage prepared by steeping leaves of Camellia sinensis in hot water. Tea is a widely recognized and much-enjoyed beverage that provides energy and warmth. It is a vital part of the daily lives of many people worldwide. It is often claimed that, after water, tea is the beverage that people drink most frequently.
In addition to being widely consumed, tea is also the subject of several tales and theories regarding its origins. In contrast to popular culture and assumption, tea is believed to have originated in China around 5,000 years ago, not in England or the British Empire. Emperor Shen Nung discovered tea in 2732 B.C. when leaves from a wild tree flew into his boiling water pot. He took a sip of the resulting brew and was captivated by its pleasant aroma. The emperor felt warm as though the enticing brew was exploring every area of his body as he drank it.
Shen Nung named the infusion “Ch’a,” using the character in Chinese which means “to look or investigate.” An emperor in the Han Dynasty, in 200 BC, ordered tea to be written with a unique character that showed grass, wooden branches, and a man in between. This character, which is also pronounced “ch’a,” represents the Chinese concept that tea unites people and the natural world.
Health Benefits of Tea
· Rich source of Antioxidants
Teas are abundant in polyphenolic compounds, which act as strong antioxidants. These molecules neutralize free radicals, decrease oxidative stress, and reduce the risk of chronic illness.
· Boost Energy Levels
A small amount of caffeine present in tea may help boost energy. Green tea is an ideal option for those who want to reduce caffeine intake because of its low caffeine content. L-Theanine, an amino acid, contributes to the energy-boosting effects of green tea. This amino acid slows caffeine absorption. Consequently, compared with a cup of coffee, the energy increase from green tea is more consistent and lasts longer. Without the jittery side effects, once caffeine wears off, you will still experience enhanced energy and focus. L-theanine has a soothing and relaxing impact, in addition to increasing alpha waves in the brain, which aids in improving attention.
· Speed up Metabolism
Polyphenols in oolong, green and black chinese tea have been demonstrated to increase calorie expenditure and lower body fat.. Interestingly, tea promotes brown fat. Brown fat may burn calories and speed up metabolism since it has more mitochondria and is more metabolically active than white fat. A comprehensive analysis of 15 studies showed that those who drank two to six cups of green tea daily for over a year had reduced body weight and body fat compared to those who did not.
· Improve Oral Health
Not every beverage is healthy for the teeth. However, teas may also enhance the dental health. Tea can help increase the number of bacteria in the mouth because it contains fluoride. This reduces the risk of cavities, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. Therefore, if you are drinking tea, you may still feel good about your dental health, even if you occasionally skip brushing.
· Can Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Regular tea consumption may help prevent or treat diseases such as type 2 diabetes and regulate blood sugar levels. After meals, black tea has been shown to lower blood sugar levels. The effects persisted for up to 120 minutes following the meal. Researchers have attributed tea polyphenols to these health benefits. These polyphenolic compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
· May Promote Heart Health
Tea consumption has been linked to a lower risk of major heart diseases, including heart attacks and blood clots. The anti-inflammatory properties of tea aid in reducing arterial tissue inflammation. Regular tea consumption reduces the chance of inflammation, which can impede blood flow and result in clotting. Tea consumption may also help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure. According to one study, those who drank four or more cups of green tea a day had a 32% decreased risk of having a heart attack and a considerable reduction in their LDL cholesterol levels.
· Can Help Regulate Weight
Like coffee, tea is appealing to those who are trying to lose weight because, if milk or sugar is not added, it is calorie-free. It may be a delicious, hydrating, and appetite-suppressing substitute for calorie drinks, such as sugar-filled sodas. According to some studies, drinking tea that contains both caffeine and catechins may increase the burning of fat and calories.
· Hydrate the Body
You might be surprised by the hydrating properties of tea. It is often thought that tea and coffee act like diuretics and cause the body to lose fluid, however, the research found that drinking up to 6-8 cups of tea provides hydration as the same amount of water.
How to Brew a Perfect Cup of Tea?
The process of making an outstanding cup of tea involves not only choosing quality tea leaves but also careful preparation. Start with premium organic teas, such as those in Green Tea Selection, to provide a base of outstanding taste and fragrance. In addition, Tie Guan Yin and Classic Tea Selections provide a wide variety to suit different tastes. Water quality is crucial for brewing; it uses pure filtered water to bring out subtle tastes. Observe the temperature and steeping times so that the leaves unfold naturally.
The Tea Sampler Collection is a carefully selected experience that provides an elegant journey through various flavors and sourcing nations for people who are keen to try a selection of premium teas. Savor the extraordinary quality of these choices to enhance your tea-drinking experience. Every sip promises an unmatched exploration of fine teas.
