Most of us love to start and end our day with a cup of tea by our side. It is our guilty pleasure that everyone knows about. But not many of us are aware of the extensive health benefits of our favourite drink. Tea leaves belong to the Camellia Sinensis plant family. It is rich in antioxidants which improve our body’s immunity and helps to reduce the chances of diseases and infections. It aids in digestion, weight loss and better metabolism and facilitates better heart health by preventing the formation of bad cholesterol. It also contains essential minerals and vitamins like magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, D and the like.
To enjoy these health benefits, here are some of the healthy tea that you can consider for the summer season –
- Green Tea –
This tea is rich in antioxidants and contains less caffeine than black tea, making this a suitable summer beverage. It is harvested during the first flush and then steamed raw to prevent oxidisation. It is rich in antioxidants like catechins and epicatechins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and fights against viral infections, colds, and other types of diseases.
Green tea also contains polyphenols which reduce sebum secretion in the skin that cause acne. There are different types of green tea available such as jasmine green tea, lemon green tea, matcha tea and the like.
- White Tea –
This is a premium quality tea which is processed as minimally as possible. The leaves are handpicked carefully when they are only partially developed and covered in fine silvery-white hairs which is why its named ‘white tea’. After they are harvested, the leaves are dried but are not oxidised at all. As a result, this tea when brewed gives off a delicate garden-fresh aroma.
However, there are different varieties of white tea, and each of them has a distinct flavour. Some white tea varieties Assam white tea, monkey picked white tea, Bai Mudan, or white peony. Since it is not fermented at all, the tea leaves contain a higher amount of antioxidants compared to green and black tea leaves. Hence, it is aids in boosting metabolism, weight loss and promotes good heart health.
- Oolong Tea –
This traditional Chinese tea blend contains the properties of both green and black tea. It is only partially fermented which lends it its distinct colour and flavour which has a therapeutic effect on the drinker. Considering that it contains the properties of both black and green tea. oolong tea serves as an excellent immunity booster during the summers.
The leaves are plucked during April when the buds have fully matured. After plucking, they are partially dried and then semi oxidised. Next, they are carefully hand-rolled, sorted, and packed to be sent to customers. Apart from boosting immunity, this tea also regulates blood sugar and improves metabolism.
- Earl Grey Tea –
This is a suitable option for those who are tired of regular black tea and looking to try other interesting flavours. Orthodox black tea leaves are blended with aromatic bergamot rinds and lavender flowers to produce this mellow and flavourful tea.
This tea derives its name from the former British Prime Minister Earl Charles Grey. Due to its delicate aroma, Earl grey tea is beneficial for people suffering from stress and anxiety. It soothes nerves and induces a calming effect. It also combats cold and fever and aids in weight loss.
Hence, if you are thinking of switching to a healthier lifestyle, you can opt for any one of the teas as mentioned above and enjoy their refreshing flavours during the summer months.
