After only water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world (European Journal of Clinical Nutrition). It only makes sense to take a look at the health benefits of some of the more popular teas we see or hear about on a daily basis. Generally, tea is a health promoting substance yet there appears to be no conclusive scientific evidence at this stage.

Myth: A cup of tea contains more caffeine than a cup of coffee.

Truth: In its dry form, tea contains more caffeine than coffee. When brewed as a drink however, significantly less tea is used for making one cup than is used to make one cup of coffee. If you are worried that an after dinner coffee may keep you up at night, choose the lower caffeine containing tea option.

green tea

Image Source: Flickr – Kanko*

Below, we have outlined some of the positive health effects that various teas are thought to have.

White Tea, Green Tea, Oolong Tea, Black Tea and Chai Tea

These teas all derive from the same plant (Camellia sinensis) and only differ in the amount that they have been processed. White tea is the least processed and black tea is the most processed. White tea also contains the most antioxidants followed by green tea and black tea respectively. Chai tea is essentially black tea with spices such as pepper, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. It is often blended with milk and sweetened with sugar or honey.  The health benefits:

  • A type of antioxidant (catechins) in white, green and black tea help fight and prevent cancer.
  • Fights heart disease.
  • Lowers bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein or ‘LDL’).
  • Helps prevent diabetes by lowering blood sugar.
  • Stimulates the metabolism and helps fight obesity.
  • Strengthens immune system.

Rooibos (redbush tea)

  • Rich in anti-oxidants, including flavonoids. Helps protect from free-radical damage that causes cancer and heart disease.
  • Does not contain any caffeine, which can keep some people up at night.

Mint Tea

  • Eases problems such as nausea, heartburn, indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome.

Chamomile tea

  • A natural remedy for heartburn, indigestion and upset stomach.
  • Sedative properties, which can help with sleep.
  • May play a role in lowering blood sugar levels and thus help control diabetes.

Let us know what your favourite type of tea is and why!