Tea

Celebrate tea.

National Tea Day, April 21

For centuries we have enjoyed tea, hot or cold, and of course there’s the tradition of British afternoon tea.

What about true teas?  What are they?
True teas are black, green, white, or oolong teas which come from the Camellia sinensis plant. The young leaf buds and leaves are steeped in boiling (or hot) water, producing the tea we know and love today. The Camellia sinensis plant is actually an evergreen shrub grown in mountainous areas in Asia, the US, and other countries.

Green tea leaves are quickly heated or steamed to avoid oxidation or browning. Black tea leaves are rolled, crushed, or torn and then allowed to oxidize before being dried.  However, this reduces some of the flavonoids, resulting in lower amounts than green tea.  Oolong tea leaves are partially oxidized before being dried.  White tea leaves are picked from the Camellia sinensis buds and young leaves and then goes through very little or no oxidation before drying.  With this small amount of processing, this very delicate tea is believed to have more antioxidants than any other tea.  Research shows that antioxidants can help fight free radicals and may help prevent chronic health conditions, like heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer.

Tea

True teas contain the plant chemical compounds catechins and epicatechins called flavonoids (which are polyphenols).  These plant compounds contain antioxidants.  Research suggests that flavonoids help suppress inflammation, which may reduce plaque buildup in arteries.  Some studies have shown that drinking tea may help to improve vascular reactivity and may lower harmful LDL cholesterol levels.  While other studies have shown that people who regularly drink green or black tea may be less likely to have strokes and heart attacks.

Herbal “teas” on the other hand are actually tisanes which are made from a variety of different herbs, spices, fruit, dried flowers and plants ex: mint, ginger, chamomile, hibiscus, and echinacea. And some like Earl Grey are made from black tea.

So whether hot, or cold enjoy a cup or glass of tea in celebration of National Tea Day.

Try a tea infuser for great flavor.

Disclaimer:  No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for medical advice from your physician.

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