During the frigid depths of winter, the only thing people want to do is find a way to warm up, whether that is by sitting near a fire, bundling up with a blanket or drinking a warm drink. There are numerous options for what to drink, but one of the best choices is tea.
While drinking a cup of tea may seem like a very British concept, numerous studies have proven that consuming tea has many health benefits. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the leaf of the Camellia sinensis, the plant from which most of the world’s tea is made, “contains… components that may reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis and diabetes. More recently, the beneficial properties associated with daily consumption of green tea… report that green tea reduces the risk of cancer, which is the major cause of mortality throughout the world.”
In addition to its health benefits, drinking tea routinely also relaxes the nervous system and can help with sleep. L-theanine, an amino acid found in teas (especially loose-leaf and green teas), has a wide variety of benefits, including improving sleep quality, reducing stress and anxiety and improving mental clarity. However, L-theanine can produce minor side effects similar to those of caffeine (headaches, dizziness and irritability) when consumed in high doses.
Different types of teas provide various benefits, so it is helpful to know which types offer what. Teas are sorted into two main categories: “true” teas, made from the Camellia sinensis plant, and herbal teas, made from other plants. “True” teas are then further categorized by oxidation level and processing into six varieties: black, white, green, oolong, pu-erh and purple. These teas help promote heart health and metabolic function, improve focus and even lower the risk of some cancers. Herbal teas are made from assorted other plants, but common options include peppermint, chamomile, hibiscus, lavender and rooibos. These varieties do not have quite as many direct health benefits, but aid in lowering stress and improving sleep.
