The effects of tea on health has been researched since it was discovered in China around 500 years ago. It’s not surprising that it has always found a place within traditional medical practices. It is the World Health Organization defines traditional medicine as:
“The health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs incorporating plant, animal and mineral-based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques and exercises, applied to treat, diagnose and prevent illnesses or maintain well-being.” chamomile tea
Tea has been utilized since the beginning of time for a myriad of health benefits. The most important thing is that it has been utilized to fight illnesses and to maintain health. Below, we will discuss the numerous benefits of tea for health will be discussed.
What is Tea?
Tea, as we refer to it could be found in a variety of forms. The term tea is actually referring to the plant that produces tea, which is also called Camellia Sinensis. The leaves created by the numerous varieties that this species produces, make the teas that are known as white tea, black tea, tea with green and Oolong tea. There are many other teas readily available, including the herbal teas African RooibosTea. The South American Yerba MateTea and others. Even though these other teas do not originate of those of the Camellia Sinensisplant, they are still known as tea.
Why is Tea So Healthy?
The reasons that tea is so beneficial, in certain ways, can be innumerable. There are countless reasons because of the numerous varieties of herbal teas, teas and fruits, as well as flowers and so on. all over the globe, which are that are naturally occurring and accessible to us. The majority of these teas and herbal teas are rich in essential minerals, compounds as well as antioxidants, enzymes and other compounds that are highly beneficial for the human body. Numerous tests have been done to support claims that tea has benefits for mind and body.
The Health Benefits of Tea ( Camellia Sinensisand The Battle of Free Radicals)
White, black, and green and oolong teas get the leaves of a warm climate tree called Camellia Sinensis. Its leaves tree contain an antioxidant that is potent, known as polyphenols. Numerous studies have confirmed the anti-aging and anticancer effects of polyphenols. A few studies have proven that polyphenols could reduce the risk of kinds of cancer. Polyphenols combat against the naturally occurring byproducts from our bodies, known as free-radicals.
The American Heritage Dictionary defines free radicals as follows:
“An atom or group of atoms that has at least one unpaired electron and is therefore unstable and highly reactive. In human tissues, free radicals can damage cells and are believed to accelerate the progression of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and age-related diseases.”
Without having to bring back horrible memories to Chemistry 101, we know that the human body is composed of a variety of cells. These cells are composed of different moleculesthat are composed of atoms that are connected through chemical bonds. Atoms are composed of a nucleus, neutrons, many electrons, and also a few of protons. Most bonds don’t break, leaving an unpaired electron. If the weak bond splits leaving an atom an electron that is not paired which is a free radical formed. Free radicals are extremely unstable and they react quickly with other compounds, attempting to capture electrons for stability. In general they attack the closest stable molecule and steal the electron. If the molecule that is attacked loses electrons and transforms into a free radical, initiating the chain reaction. After the process has begun, it may continue to grow leading to the disintegration of living cells.
