Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and it’s no surprise people have been drinking tea for centuries for the pleasure, routine, taste, and for the many health benefits.
Also, tea has a high concentration of antioxidants, which may contribute to the prevention of cancer, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases.
Here are some of the characteristics and healing properties of the major tea families:
Black Tea
This tea is more oxidized than other teas, which gives it a darker color, and a stronger flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Black Tea:
-aids the digestive system
-anti-inflammatory effects on the body
-protects the skin
-burns calories
Green Tea
This tea has not been processed as much as other forms, and so it has a gentler color and flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Green Tea:
-protects against cancer
-maintains heart health
-increases fat burning
Oolong Tea
This tea is made by a process of withering the leaves and drying them in the sun. This creates a light-colored tea with a mild flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Oolong Tea:
-manages diabetes
-protects your teeth
White Tea
This tea is not oxidized or rolled, and this creates a mild flavor profile.
Health Benefits of White Tea:
-supports mental health
-fights bacteria
Herbal Tea
This tea is comprised of the dried properties of petals, leaves, seeds, roots, stems, and petals of a multitude of plants and flowers.
Health Benefits of Herbal Tea:
-aids in digestion
-relieves anxiety and stress
-helps with sleep
-provides anti-inflammatory properties
With all of the benefits of drinking tea, choosing a tea for your specific needs is a great way to discover what is out there, because with over 1500 varieties, finding one that fits your ideal flavor profile can be a little overwhelming.
Here are a few common symptoms that many of us experience, and a tea blend that can help:
Stress Blend
-chamomile
-lavender
-passionflower
Fatigue Blend
-mint
-nettles
-ginseng
-licorice root
Exhaustion Blend
-chamomile
-nettles
-licorice root
-lavender
-ashwagandha root
-clove
How to Drink Your Tea
-Bring a kettle of water to a boil
-Add 2-3 tablespoons of tea to an infuser or tea bag and add to your water
-Cover and steep for 5-7 minutes
-Uncover and remove the bag or infuser.
-Enjoy your tea!
