International Tea Day: Tea is Medicine

Ah, the love of tea in Britain is legendary, with 84% of the population enjoying a staggering 100 million cups of tea daily! It's a cherished tradition, but what makes it even better is that tea isn't just comforting; it can also be good for us. As we celebrate International Tea Day, let's uncover the remarkable properties of various teas that may already be in your kitchen cabinets.

Let’s begin with the classics

Black, green, and white teas which are often referred to as "true teas" because they all originate from the Camellia sinensis plant. It's fascinating how different parts of the plant are used to create these distinct teas. White tea, crafted from the youngest buds, offers a delicate and subtle flavour. Green tea, made from the leaves in the middle, is known for its fresh and slightly grassy taste. Black tea, created from the larger leaves, has a robust and full-bodied character due to oxidation.

While all of these teas contain flavonoids and antioxidants, their concentration and types vary. Green tea, for instance, boasts a significantly higher amount of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a compound which makes it so famous for its health benefits. Black tea is a valuable source of theaflavins, which also offer health benefits, although they may not be as pronounced as those of EGCG.

To put this in context, for example, a review of studies found that people who drank 1–3 cups of green tea a day had a 19% lower risk of heart attack, compared to those who had less than 1 cup a day (1). Those drinking at least 3 cups of black tea were found to have an 11% lower risk of heart disease (2).

Many people steer clear away from black tea because of its caffeine content. (A robust cup of black tea can have as much caffeine as a weak cup of coffee.) Green tea and white tea also contain some caffeine, but generally less. It's often the caffeine that drives people to choose herbal teas instead.

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Claudia's favourite herbs to make tea:

Rooibos

Also known as red bush tea, with a naturally sweet and earthy flavour. It's celebrated for its rich antioxidant content and potential benefits, such as promoting digestion, supporting skin health, and providing a caffeine-free alternative for those looking to enjoy a warm and soothing beverage.

Chamomile

This tea is well-known for its soothing properties. It's excellent for helping people relax and unwind, making it a wonderful choice for those dealing with stress or sleep issues.

Fennel

Fennel tea is a post-meal treat known for its digestive benefits. It can help ease bloating and indigestion, making it a fantastic choice to promote better digestion after a hearty meal.

Peppermint

Peppermint tea is a soothing option, known for its ability to calm an upset stomach. It's great for relieving digestive discomfort, including gas and bloating, and can also help with headaches.

Ginger

Ginger tea is a versatile choice with a range of benefits. Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, making it an excellent option for those dealing with nausea, motion sickness, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Echinacea

Echinacea tea is often used to boost the immune system and help fend off colds and infections. It's a popular choice during the flu season.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm tea has a refreshing citrus flavour and is known for its mood-lifting and stress-relieving properties. It can also aid digestion.

Nettle

Nettle tea is packed with nutrients and is often used to alleviate allergy symptoms, reduce inflammation, and support overall wellness.

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Hibiscus

Hibiscus tea is not only visually appealing with its vibrant red colour but is also rich in antioxidants. It may help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

Chai

Chai tea is a blend of various spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, making it a warming and aromatic choice. It can aid digestion and boost circulation.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass tea has a fresh and citrusy flavour and is often enjoyed for its calming and digestive benefits.

Dandelion

Dandelion tea is known for its potential to support liver health and aid with detoxification. It can also have mild diuretic properties.

Tea is more than just a comforting beverage; it's a source of natural medicine that can enhance our physical and mental well-being.

Whether you're sipping on green tea for its antioxidant powers, ginger tea for digestive comfort, or chamomile tea for a peaceful night's sleep, you're tapping into the incredible health benefits these teas offer. As one anonymous tea quote states: “With a cup of tea in your hand, anything is possible.”

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