HEALTH DRINK SPECIAL.... BLACK TEA

HEALTH DRINK BLACK TEA

What is black tea?

Black tea is made from the plant Camellia Sinensis where green tea also originates. Black tea goes through a very different fermenting process than green tea called oxidation; the leaves are left to breathe in moist oxygen.

The tea is then rolled and heated and dried out and when the process is completed it is black in colour. The end result is a potent caffeine drink that has all kinds of health benefits and many drink it as an alternative medicine. Black tea is becoming more and more popular as it has several components that can benefit general well-being as well as aid with some common medical complaints. Many supermarket brands like Earl Grey or Darjeeling are made from black tea and they have a very powerful and pungent taste. Tea drinking is an ancient art in some countries and its part and parcel of a healthy every day life.

Looking after your teeth

A study carried out by the Tea Trade Health Research Association, found that consumption of black tea can help prevent the formulation of plaque on the enamel of the teeth. Plaque is a leading factor in the development of gum disease, a prevalent trouble spot for many.

Gum disease causes teeth to loosen and eventually fall out so keeping them in good condition is paramount. Oral hygiene can really benefit from doses of black tea because it staves off bacteria from getting into the teeth which in turn causes cavities. There are Polyphenols in the composition of black tea and they actively kill bacteria enzymeswhich protects the enamel from becoming infected and rotting. Considering untreated tooth-decay can lead to widespread gum disease and the loss of all teeth, partaking of a few cups of black tea and sticking to a good oral care regime may help to ward off problems later on.

Stress and strain

Herbal teas are renowned for their soothing and calming qualities, but not many people know how good black tea can be when consumed in moderate quantities. The Chinese call black tea Hong Cha, and they've been using it for forever and a day as an aid for anxiety and stress.

Black tea contains the amino acid L-theanine, which is renowned for its relaxation properties and it's said to help with poor concentration too. Because it has a high concentrate of caffeine it helps blood circulation without increasing the heartbeat. This has a duel-effect on the body; it releases good energy and promotes a sense of harmony and balance. Tannins found in black tea are great for the immune system and they promote healthy working digestive systems all which restore the body to its natural peaceful state.

Reducing risk of major illness

Black tea can be used as a preventative medicine as well as an alternative one. The natural phytochemicals can produce strong, healthy bone structure and help ease conditions like arthritis and rheumatism.

There's also evidence to suggest that people who regularly drink black tea have 70% less chance of developing diabetes. Polyphenols which are found in black tea are natural antioxidants which are capable of ridding the body oftoxic chemicals. These same antioxidants are said to prevent and reduce some types of cancers although research is still in its infant stages. There have also been findings that support the theory that black tea can reduce the risk of heart disease and the possibility of strokes. When one takes all these health benefits into account, it's hard to understand why so many of us don't drink black tea more regularly. 

RECEIVED FROM PG