How can you imagine a morning without a steaming cup of healthy tea?
It is the only savior on a dull Monday. It is also the first thing we never forget to offer our guests. But much before it became such a popular beverage and an intrinsic part of our life, tea was largely consumed for treating many common diseases and health conditions. Besides the caffeine and the potent flavor, teas are notable for their medicinal value. Be it a cup of Ginger tea to cure sore throat or Green tea to enhance metabolism, they are a healthy alternative to aerated drinks.
1. Black Tea
Did you now that your basic cup of black tea fights cancer besides kicking all that energy into your system? Yes you heard it right! Black tea abounds in powerful antioxidants like flavonoids, known for preventing heart diseases, and catechins that inhibit carcinogenesis. Add to that the raw and intense flavour that awakens your soul. What else do you need? It is easily the best beverage for people with a strong palate.
2. Green Tea
It has not been too long since we started seeing fitness enthusiasts singing praises of green tea on the internet. Soon enough, it became a hit with just everyone, making it the ‘most popular drink’ around the world. And the title is justly earned. It is rich in polyphenol antioxidants that help boost metabolism, monitor blood sugar levels, and prevent cell damage and premature ageing. Green tea has also been demonstrated to be beneficial in the treatment of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease as it improves thinking and reasoning abilities by rejuvenating brain cells.
3. White Tea
With a subtle flavor profile and negligible caffeine content, white tea is termed the ‘healthiest’ tea. Being the least processed variant, white tea contains levels of antioxidants higher than that in green tea. It is noted for boosting immunity, reducing cholesterol and having anti-inflammatory properties. It is also great at fighting off free radicals, responsible for cell damage. It is also rich in fluoride, which is good for preventing tooth decay and cavity, and treating osteoporosis.
4. Oolong Tea
Want a taste of authentic Chinese tea? Then Oolong tea is the one. Its semi-oxidized leaves are rich in alkaloids and an amino acid called L-theanine that enhances the production of dopamine and serotonin also known as the ‘happy hormone’. It has a relaxing effect and remarkably improves mood and enhances performance. Additionally, oolong tea is packed with other nutrients like vitamins and minerals. As a result, regular consumption helps regulate insulin levels, reduces possibilities of stroke and maintains overall good health.
5. Herbal Tea
Herbal tea covers a wide variety of teas, infused with various medicinal herbs, flowers and spices. In addition to the concoction of delightful aromas and flavours, herbal teas are one of the most refreshing and healthy teas. Chamomile tea known for calming your nerves, turmeric and ginger tea beneficial for preventing common flu and boosting immunity, and peppermint tea popular for curing gastric issues are some of the variants.
Of course, the type of tea you have made your routine drink might seem the best and the healthiest. But as excessive consumption of anything can pose health problems, the same is true for tea. High doses of caffeine can have damaging effects on mental as well as physical health. Since the medicinal effects of tea are mild, you must consult your physician and keep up with your prescribed intake of medicines as well to see desired results.
