Tea and Human Health

Tea is packed with antioxidants and other plant compounds (polyphenols, L-theanine, and catechin) that offer various health benefits. Tea contains a unique amino acid called l-theanine, which is best known for its powerful relaxing effect. It works to balance the effect of caffeine to give you calm, sustained energy. Plant compounds in tea like polyphenols offer protection against development of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, osteoporosis and neurodegenerative disease. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants and are generally involved in defense against UV radiation or aggression by pathogens. Tea is used as medicine in Africa and is valued everyday for its health improving properties. While drinking tea will contribute to overall health and well-being, it is becoming evidence that the many unique compounds in tea work together to benefit the body, providing protection from stress and disease, and strengthening the bone and immune system. From oral health to digestive health, tea is valued as much for its beneficial attributes as for its delicious flavors.

All teas produced from camellia sinensis plants including rooibos and herbal infusions are good for health. Many studies have looked into the effects of green tea extracts in particular, and most recommend drinking at least three cups of tea per day to gain the health benefits.

DRINKING TEA EVERY DAY IMPROVES HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

Caffeine: Tea contains caffeine, a bitter compound that stimulates the nervous system. It is one of the various compounds sent from the roots of the plant to protect and nourish the buds as they grow, and is known to repel insect attacks. There are similar amounts of caffeine in tea per dry leaf weight to coffee. However, the polyphenols (tannins) in tea regulate and slow the release of caffeine, so that the feeling of alertness it gives lasts much longer. Caffeine levels in tea depend on the style of tea used, water temperature, steeping time and the time of the year tea leaves were picked.

Drinking tea every day is a great way to get the energy boost you need without the added anxiousness or jitters that you might get from coffee.