Sip Your Way to Wellness: 10 Scientifically-Backed Benefits of Hand-Rolled Tea
It is pertinent to note that green, black, oolong, and white teas all come from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis.These types of tea differ primarily in their degree of oxidation.The leaves of green tea are unoxidized, while the leaves of black and oolong tea have been partially oxidized. Generally, white tea is derived from the young leaves and buds of the plant, which have been minimally processed.
Hand-rolled green, black, oolong, or white tea has numerous health benefits. Ten of the most significant benefits are as follows:
- Green tea, black tea, oolong tea, and white tea are all rich in anti-oxidants known as polyphenols, which can help to protect the body against free radical damage. Plant compounds known as polyphenols have a number of health benefits, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Green tea has been shown to have a positive effect on weight loss and fat oxidation. Numerous studies have found that green tea helps boost metabolism and increases fat burning, making it an effective weight loss aid.
- There is evidence that black and oolong teas can lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. These teas contain compounds that are capable of reducing levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and improving overall cardiovascular health.
- Studies have shown green tea to have a positive effect on brain function, including improving memory and mental alertness. As a result of L-theanine in green tea, brain cells are protected from damage and communication between neurons is improved, enhancing cognitive function.
- White tea is extremely beneficial for the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Antioxidants in white tea protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, leading to a youthful appearance.
- Green tea is beneficial for people with diabetes as it has been shown to have a positive effect on blood sugar control. Catechins in green tea, especially EGCG, reduce blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Black, oolong, and white teas are all beneficial for dental health. The antioxidants in these teas can help to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in the mouth, thus reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- The dietary flavonoids, especially flavanols present in green tea are thought to help increase bone density and strength and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Black and oolong teas have been shown to have a positive effect on digestion, helping to reduce bloating and improving gut health. The polyphenol compounds in these teas are thought to help improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut, leading to better gut health.
- Green, black, oolong, and white teas have all been shown to have a positive effect on stress and anxiety, helping to reduce the physical and emotional symptoms of stress. The antioxidants and other compounds in these teas are thought to help regulate the body's stress response, leading to a feeling of relaxation and calm.
Overall, there is enough evidence that suggests hand-rolled green, black, oolong, or white tea can provide a substantial number of health benefits when consumed regularly. To get the most out of these teas, it's critical to choose high-quality, hand-rolled fresh leaves and to brew them using the proper techniques.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3498696/
https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/98/6/1694S/4577502
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2748751/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3123403/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7084675/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2855614/