Green Tea
Green tea is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin
gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant. EGCG will
inhibit the growth of cancer cells as well killing cancer
cells without harming healthy cells. It is also effective
in lowering LDL cholesterol levels and inhibiting the formation
of abnormal blood clots. This is especially important since
abnormal blood clots are the leading cause of heart attacks
and strokes.
Green, oolong and black teas all come from the same plant,
Camellia sinensis. The health benefits of green teas come
from how the tea leaves are processed. Green tea leaves are
quickly air-dried and steamed, which prevents the EGCG compound
from being oxidised. In black and oolong teas, the leaves
are oxidised which causes the EGCG to be converted into other
compounds that are not as beneficial.
Further benefits may include help in weight loss. A study
at the University of Geneva in Switzerland in November, 1999,
found that men given a combination of green tea and caffeine
extract burned more calories than those given only caffeine
or a placebo.
The bacteria-destroying properties of green tea can help
prevent food poisoning and kill the bacteria that cause dental
plaque.
For further information on Green Tea and its benefits, please
browse the following links:
www.teahealth.co.uk
White Tea
White tea is made from the immature leaves of the Camellia
sinensis that are picked shortly before the buds have fully
opened. The name is taken from the silver fuzz that still
covers the buds, which turns white as the leaves are dried.
Tea leaves sold as White Tea undergo even less processing
than Green Tea leaves. Instead of air-drying, the unwithered
leaves are merely steamed. This results in a pale tea with
a sweet, silky flavour. It also tends to lack the grassy aftertaste
of many green teas.
Furthermore, studies show that white tea is even better for
you than green tea because it contains more polyphenols, due
to the reduced processing. A 2004 study at Pace University
found that White Tea helps the body’s immune system
fight off viruses and infection-causing bacteria. White tea
is also naturally rich in fluoride and helps reduce tooth
decay.
For further information on White Tea and its benefits, please
browse the following links:
www.teahealth.co.uk
Herbal Tea
Here are some of the health benefits of herbal teas!
| Chamomile |
- soothes digestive disorders
- offers moderate sedative and calming effects
- relieves symptoms of cold and flu, especially aches and pains
- soothes irritated, sunburned skin or sore muscles when added to bath
- excellent hair rinse for blondes
|
| Ginger |
- relieves symptoms of cold, flu, and coughs
- helps relieve indigestion, cramps, nausea
- increases circulation, warms and increases energy
- cleanses colon, fights colitis and diverticulitis
- eases symptoms of hangover and general debility
- helps relive arthritis
|
| Hibiscus |
- replaces electrolytes and quenches thirst
- eases symptoms of colds, flu, coughs
|
| Lemongrass |
- relaxes stomach muscles to relieve cramps and flatulence
- reduces fever, with a cooling effect on the body
- gentle herb for facial steams and baths
|
| Liquorice |
- relieves coughs, sore throats, congestion
- soothes digestive tract. Supports adrenal function
- strengthens an balances female reproductive system
- advised not to take if you have high blood pressure
|
| Peppermint |
- relieves flatulence, cramps, nausea, heartburn
- helps ward off initial symptoms of cold and flu
- eases headaches
|
| Nettle |
- purifies, nourishes, and builds blood
- builds adrenal and kidney function
- strengthens pregnant women and increases milk supply for nursing mothers
- helps moderate allergy response
|
| Sage |
- calms and strengthens nerves, soothes nervous headaches
- cleanses the liver and stimulates digestion
- eases colds and flu, especially lung congestion
- use as a gargle for sore throat, apply to relieve mouth ulcers or sore gums
- dries milk production in weaning mothers, avoid if still nursing
- can trigger epileptic attacks due to thujone content
- can relieve pms and menstrual symptoms in women
|
| Fennel |
- stimulates appetite, relieves upset stomach, flatulence, colic
- expels mucus, soothes cough, throat and lungs
- boil in barley water to stimulate lactation in nursing mothers
- best to bruise seeds with mortar and pestle before infusing
|
| Rooibos |
- naturally caffeine free
- soothes symptoms of colic in babies
- cleanses blood and kidneys
- soothing to skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne
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