Drinking tea can prevent cancer, aid weight loss, improve concentration and keep you younger for longer

Tea — not herbal or fruit tea but ‘regular’ tea — comes from the infusion of the plant known as the Camellia Sinensis. It is oxidised, dried, withered and rolled in various ways at different stages to create the different types of tea we taste today. The history of tea dates back to when tea was discovered by the second emperor of China, Shen Nung, in 2737 BC.

Tea leaves were said to have blown into his cup of hot water, beginning the fascination of tea. It wasn’t until 1664 when the English East India Company sent King Charles II and Queen Catherine of England the famous gift of tea, which is today looked back as the discovery of tea to the world.

Tea continues to fascinate drinkers to this day, with teas being blended in many ways to create the highest possible health benefit from a single cup.

Black, Green, White and Oolong teas are all derived from the plant Camellia Sinensis.

Herbal teas are hot-water infusions of herbs, dried flowers, seeds, spices, roots and/or leaves, while fruit teas are hot-water infusions of dried fruits and dried flowers. Herbal and fruit teas are properly referred to as tisanes as they do not actually have the tea plant Camellia Sinensis as one of their ingredients. Rooibos and Honeybush teas are also not derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant, but from plants native to the South African mountains.

To make the black tea we see today, Camellia Sinensis leaves are withered, rolled, oxidised and then dried. They are then later pulverised to create the powder we see so often. Black tea contains theaflavins and thearubigens that give it its dark colour and distinctive taste. These compounds are believed to stimulate the brain and energise the body. Black tea makes a perfect early morning beverage, while acting as a healthier alternative to coffee. The caffeine in black teas is known to provide the stimulation that is gained from coffee, while calming the nerves and improving focus and concentration. Black teas are further believed to support good oral health and prevent gum disease.

Oolong tea, also known as Blue Tea, has been traditionally manufactured in China or Taiwan. Oolong tea leaves are picked as the plant reaches its peak. They are wilted, shaken, oxidised and then heated over charcoal-fired stoves. Oolong tea is believed to detoxify the body, while acting as an anti-aging elixir, as well as an aid against obesity and weight gain.

Green tea, known for its high level of antioxidants and healing qualities, is a world-wide popular tea. Lower in caffeine levels to the Oolong and Black teas, green tea is a popular choice. Green tea is picked in the early stages of the plant’s maturity. It is rich in catechin polyphenols which is believed to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, as well as kill them without harming any healthy tissue. Green tea is known to aid in overall digestion and colon cleansing, boost metabolic rates and help with weight loss. Combined with mint, it helps in the reduction of plaque and bad breath. Green tea is also believed to be a great stress reliever as it calms the nerves while instilling concentration.

White tea, now known as the new green tea, is the tea with the highest level of anti-oxidants. Picked in the very early stages, just as the plant flowers, white tea has a soft delicate flavour. This tea is known as the miracle cure due to its high levels of catechins and very low levels of caffeine. White tea is believed to flush the body of all toxins, while stimulating kidney function. The flavonoids, a class of antioxidants, found in white tea, are believed to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and prevent the development of new ones. White tea is also believed to help calm and soothe skin conditions and eliminate fatigue and tiredness. Many nutritionists encourage women over the age of 30 to drink white tea to prevent future osteoporosis and bone density problems. White tea is known for its anti-aging, anti weight-gain properties, keeping you young and trim and promoting the overall general well-being of the body.

Nutritionists and health professionals recommend drinking four to six cups a day. Without milk and sugar, tea contains zero fat and zero calories making it an attractive alternative to water. Each flavour and blend of tea provides you with different health benefits, so do not be afraid to incorporate a variety of teas into your lifestyle. For your health, pick up a tin of tea, and start your journey of discovery today.


Can’t stand the taste of tea?

Try fruit and herb tisanes. They are rich in nutrients, high in health benefits, and contain no caffeine. Fruits provide high doses of vitamin C which help boost your immune system while giving you much-needed energy.

Rooibos and honeybush teas are harvested in natural environments in the South African mountains. These teas are believed to lower cholesterol, fight depression and nervous conditions as well as hydrate and rejuvenate the body. Rooibos and honeybush teas are also good alternatives to juices for children, as the teas are naturally sweet and blend well with other flavours. Furthermore, they are known to be safe for pregnant women and breast-feeding mothers due to their zero caffeine levels.