health benefits of tea
Long ago, tea was consumed for medicinal purposes to help control bleeding, to help wounds heal, to regulate body temperature and blood sugars, and to improve digestion.
A Health Canada study acknowledged in 2007 three health claims associated with tea consumption. All types of tea (black, green and oolong) are now formally recognized as:
- a source of antioxidants for the maintenance of good health;
- helpful in enhancing alertness;
- helpful in maintaining cardiovascular health.
All teas are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are essential in repairing the cells in our bodies. Green tea contains particularly high levels of antioxidants – specifically, polyphenols. A Boston Tufts University study from 1996 concluded that one cup of green tea has the equivalent level of antioxidants to 22 vegetables.
Some antioxidants found in teas are called catechins, which increase the antioxidization of the blood. Like all antioxidants, they battle free radicals and repair damaged cells within the body, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stokes, and slowing down the aging process.
Over the centuries, herbal teas have also been used effectively to treat maladies. Today, we see many herbal concoctions on grocery and tea merchants’ shelves… e.g., tisanes for relaxation, calming the nervous system, soothing the stomach, and even providing relief from constipation.
Links to tea health research and conclusions: