Every type of tea has a different health benefit. What may surprise you, is that all tea is made from the same plant, the Camellia Sinensis. What makes each tea different is how it is processed, where it is grown (i.e. climate, soil, air, water) and the species of Camellia Sinensis plant that it is. While this list is not all inclusive, here are some of the specific health benefits of each type of tea:
White Tea- this tea contains the most antioxidants, because it has not been altered and is the first three buds on each plant. Therefore it is known to be anti-aging, cancer-fighting, and is good for damaging free radicals in your body that could cause a variety of issues.
Green Tea- The processing of green tea is minimal so the tea leaves retain all of the good energy of the plant. Western Medicine has done many years of research on it, while Eastern Medicine has been studying it’s benefits for centuries. Green tea helps fight cancer, heart disease and atherosclerosis. Studies have shown that it can help stave off dementia and strokes. It helps soothe joint pain in arthritic patients. Green tea is good for your teeth as well. It contains calcium and enzymes that help neutralize the acid on your teeth when the tea is consumed after a meal.
Oolong Tea- This tea is most noted for being the “Weight Loss Tea.” It helps to metabolize fat, and helps to keep it off. It is what is served at most Chinese restaurants.
Black Tea- most people do not realize that this tea is very heart-healthy. In those who have had heart attacks, this tea, when consumed on a regular basis, is shown to lower the risk of subsequent heart attacks. Black tea also has many polyphenols, a type of antioxidant, that is also found in other healthy treats such as dark chocolate and red wine.
Pu-erh Tea has been processed with one additional step, the process of fermenting. By fermenting the tea, microbes, which enhance the teas benefits, become present. Pu-erh is known for its weight loss properties. It is also believed to remove toxins, aid in digestion, improve blood circulation and even revive those who are overly intoxicated. For centuries it was used as a food supplement to the people of the mountainous region of the Yunnan Providence.
Rooibos Tea- this does not come from the Camellia Sinensis plant so it is naturally caffeine free, but also has tannins in it like black tea, leaving the dry feeling on your tongue. Rooibos has a nice full and bold flavor that is also due to the tannins. This tea is good for those with kidney stones because it does not contain oxalic acid. It has a ton of trace minerals such as manganese, zinc, copper, magnesium and potassium. It also has fluoride and calcium which is good for your bones and teeth. It also has polyphenols, which are a type of antioxidant shown to be good for your heart and are also found in dark chocolate and red wine.
Herbal Tea- is a broad term that encompasses all teas made from anything other than the Camellia Sinensis plant. The most beneficial aspect of herbals is that each plant is known for helping with a different ailment. In fact, it is the medicine that has been used by people since the dawn of time…and in our current medicinal system.