From Leaf to Life: The Health and Wellness Benefits of Tea

The story of tea begins in 2737 BC in China with the Chinese emperor Shen Nung. Shen Nung is known as the father of Chinese agriculture, who taught his people how to turn grain into food to prevent the killing of animals. One day, as Shen was sitting beneath a tree as his servant boiled drinking water, leaves from the tree fell into the water. Due to his curiosity about herbs, Shen Nung tried the drink and created what we know today as tea. 

Ever since its discovery, tea has been used for many different purposes. This article will explore the various ways tea benefits health and wellness. 

Green Tea

• Green Tea leaves are high in catechins, which act as antioxidants and reduce inflammation. 

• Amino acids found in green tea leaves, such as L-theanine, have brain-protective benefits. A study showed that adults who frequently drink green tea had a 64% lower risk of memory loss or concentration issues. L-theanine can also help ease stress and anxiety.

• Several studies found that drinking green tea may prevent diabetes; it improves blood sugar and the body’s sensitivity to insulin. A study in Japan found that drinking 4 or more cups a day reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes by 40%. 

Peppermint Tea

• Peppermint tea and oil have been shown to relax muscles in the digestive system and may relieve bloating, indigestion, and gas. 

• The menthol in peppermint increases blood flow and provides a cooling sensation, which may help ease pain like headaches. Menthol also improves airflow in the nasal passages and may help relieve clogged sinuses.

• Although caffeine-free, the oils in peppermint alleviate symptoms of fatigue and boost energy levels. In a small 2018 study involving 24 people, peppermint oil reduced mental fatigue and improved cognitive functioning.

Ginger Tea

• Research shows that consuming ginger daily in doses of 2-6 grams can protect against heart disease by lowering blood pressure, preventing blood clots, lowering cholesterol, and improving blood circulation. 

• A plethora of research has revealed that ginger has beneficial effects on weight and blood sugar by increasing thermogenesis, which is the production of heat by your body that helps burn fat, prevents fat storage and absorption, increases the breakdown of fats for energy, and helps control appetite. 

• Compounds found in ginger, called gingerol and shogaol, have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds have also been shown to protect the brain against an age-associated decline in brain functions due to their antioxidant characteristics.

Tea has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries, from boosting your immune system to reducing inflammation and even fighting off cancer and heart disease. With over 3000 different varieties of tea, each with its benefits and characteristics, the advantages of tea are vast. Enjoy a warm cup of tea before bed or as you wake up in the morning. 

Thumbnail photo credits to ABC News