Tea has a well-established reputation as a healthy beverage. Thanks to modern marketing, Camellia sinensis (tea tree) is often portrayed as a miracle plant. There are claims that it will clear skin, halt cancer, or melt body fat. For the most part, these claims aren’t true. While the research conducted generally supports the idea that tea is good for you, results on specific health benefits are less conclusive. But here are a few benefits of tea that we know for a fact:
Tea is good for your health, especially when it is fresh and naturally grown. Tea is a hydrating beverage packed with bioactive compounds. It is rich in phytonutrients that support overall well-being. Modern day scientific research has proven tea to contain many healthy compounds that include potent antioxidants and L-theanine.
True tea, ie, white, green, yellow, oolong, black (red), and pu-erh (but not herbal), all come from the leaves of Camellia Sinensis. Although there are differences in the amounts of caffeine, theanine, and magnesium among tea types, all teas generally contain meaningful amounts of tea phytonutrients. Shade-grown teas like Matcha and Gyokuro are typically highest in L-theanine.
Flavonoids are dietary compounds found in tea, wine, cocoa, fruit, and vegetables. Tea flavonoids help maintain normal blood vessel function.
Drinking tea regularly can contribute to proper hydration, improve focus and concentration, and help maintain a positive mood throughout the day.
Large observational studies and meta-analyses suggest that drinking three or more cups of tea daily is associated with improved cardiovascular health, including healthy blood pressure levels. Regular tea drinkers tend to have a lower risk of heart disease and stroke compared with non-drinkers
There are also studies (though inconclusive – the results vary from Asian to Western populations) that suggest drinking green tea may help maintain a healthy body composition. Tea is a negligible-calorie beverage, containing roughly 2 calories per cup; therefore, when used in place of higher-calorie beverages, it can help control caloric intake, which is important for managing weight.
With this in mind, our recommendation is simple. The most beneficial tea is one that you enjoy drinking often, ideally without milk and sugar.
Developed over the past thousand years, tea-crafting techniques have produced a wide variety of styles and flavors that are both tasty and healthy. This is particularly helpful if it replaces a less healthy beverage habit, such as soda, or increases your overall water intake.
To maximize health benefits, choose whole-leaf tea free from artificial additives. While fresh Green Teas are high in catechins, aged teas like Pu-erh and White Tea offer unique bioactive compounds that develop during aging.