White tea originates from China from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Its buds and leaves are allowed to wither in the sun during the plants growth. They are harvested prematurely and the delicate buds and leaves are processed to prevent oxidation. They say this preserves the distinct flavor of this aromatic tea. Camellia Sinensis plant is abundant with what is called polyphenols, a phytonutrient which is responsible for the tea’s health benefits.
Which One is the Healthiest Tea?
Improved Cardiovascular Function
White tea has a substance known as Catechins, a group of antioxidants that have been shown to reduce cholesterol, decrease blood pressure, repair vein tissue, and improve overall cardiovascular function.
Immune System Booster
Studies have shown that animals that were given white tea were more resistant to the bacteria Salmonella. Furthermore, the antioxidants that is abundant in white tea helps to booster the immune system in animals and humans. And there’s more good news: A study conducted by the Pace University in 1984 revealed that white tea may in fact slow down viruses and the growth of bacteria, reducing the incidence of staphylococcus and streptococcus infections, pneumonia, fungus growth, and even dental plaque.
Amazingly, white tea has been shown to work as well as prescription drugs in providing the body with antioxidants and preventing many types of cancer, such as colon, prostate, and stomach cancers. Flavonoids, a group of antioxidants present in this tea reduce the growth of cancer cells, and help new ones to grow!
It would seem a good idea to drink this tea often throughout the day. Not a tea-lover? Well, how about adding a teaspoon of raw honey and a squeeze of a lemon or lime to your tea for an added zest?
Reduce Blood Pressure
Chances are that you or someone you know personally has high blood pressure. Well, the good news is studies have proven that white tea can actually thin the blood and drastically improve artery function. Drinking white tea several times a day on a consistent basis can actually lower the pressure of your blood and protect the body against one of its common health enemies, stroke. This only works when you drink the tea every day, a couple of times a day. Bring it to work with you and share the health benefits with your coworkers.
Stronger Bones and Teeth, and Healthier Skin
Numerous studies have shown that regular drinkers of white tea had greater bone density than non drinkers of white tea. If you suffer from arthritis or osteoporosis, better grab yourself some white tea and have a couple of cups a day. White tea has small amounts of fluoride which help to keep the teeth and gums healthy too.
This remarkable tea has also been shown to fight free radicals from sun, stress and poor diet, and reverse some of the signs of aging. According to a study by Kingston University in London, it seems that white tea may be an interesting option for reducing and preventing wrinkles. Out of 21 different compounds tested, white tea was found to contain by far the highest concentration of antioxidants.
Is there anything this tea doesn’t help improve? Well, let’s see here, white tea may also reduce blood sugar and lessen the symptoms of diabetes. This astounding tea has shown to reduce stress and yet increase energy levels. Now who doesn’t want to have more energy throughout the day?
How to Brew White Tea
Boiling hot water can diminish the distinct flavor as well as deplete the nutrients of the tea. Experts all agree that water for white tea should be no hotter than 170-185 degrees Fahrenheit (76 to 85 degrees Celsius). For best results bring the water to a roaring boil and then let sit for a couple of minutes and then pour onto the tea leaves. This should be done for all types of teas.
Because white tea leaves are not as dense and compact as other teas you should use at least two teaspoons of white tea leaves for every cup (8 ounces) of water. The longer you brew the tea for the stronger the flavor and the more nutritional value you will be receiving. Some people recommend steeping the tea for up to 15 minutes.
White tea sounds like the king of teas and the health benefits are awesome! But with any natural health remedy or healing product out there they always work best when we do other things to take care of our body. White tea works well in conjunction with other ways to keep healthy and fit.
For an example: someone who eats a poor diet, is overweight, and leads a sedentary lifestyle will not see the health benefits from white tea as well as someone who already eats a well balanced diet, and who regularly exercises. The fact of the matter is, you have to take care of your body by doing everything you can to protect it from disease and illness.
Provide your body with clean whole foods, pure water, adequate amounts of exercise, and sufficient amounts of sunshine, and lead a stress free lifestyle as much as possible. You are your body’s best friend when it comes to health so treat it well and you will enjoy your life that much more. And of course, incorporating white tea into your diet would be a wonderful idea. Here’s to your health!