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All the Tea in China...
It's hard to pick up the paper these days without reading yet another article about the benefits of tea. While coffee still reigns supreme in San Francisco (and on West Portal for that matter), a plethora of scientific discoveries is confirming the wisdom of the sages over the ages, which is that the humble tea plant (camilia sinsencis) in its many forms has an impresive list of health–endowing qualities. In this article I will attempt to recap some of the highlights:
L–Theanine: An amino acid that has remarkable stress reducing effects. Studies have shown that people who drink tea have increased alpha waves, the brain waves that are associated with states of calm alertness. This same amino acid is related to increased levels of GABA, another amino acid that tones down the brain's response to stress by increasing levels of two other brain chemicals (dopamine and seratonin) that promote well-being. Other research points to L–Theanine's ability to boost concentration, reduce blood pressure, support the immune system, and help reduce PMS.
Antioxidants: Primarily polyphenols, which are compounds that have a wide range of beneficial effects. One such compound is catechins, which have 200 times the antioxidant activity of vitamin E. Another substance called ECGG (epigollocatechingallate) works much the same as aspirin in its ability to reduce the stickiness of platelets that can cause heart attacks and stokes when they obstruct small blood pathways. It has also been linked to lower rates of lung cancer and better control of blood sugar for diabetics.
Saponins: These substances have been show to promote fat metabolism and reduce the levels of fat in the blood. This is also associated with lower cholesterol and better ratios of HDL ("good" cholesterol) and LDL ("bad" cholesterol).
Tannic acid: Slows the absorption of caffeine into the bloodstream and acts as a time-release mechanism, providing sustained energy rather than a quick jolt followed by a "crash and burn" feeling. Tannic acid compounds also bind with toxins in the stomach and intestines, thus protecting the digestive tract as well.
Trace minerals: Certain teas depending on the variety and origin have been shown to have beneficial amounts of minerals including fluoride, which makes teeth stronger, and manganese, which strengthens bones.
Keep in mind that green tea and black tea are in fact the same plant, and the difference is in the degree that it has been processed, which allows for the wide range of flavors, colors, and aromas. Green tea is less fermented and tends to be higher in antioxidants. Black tea has been allowed to ferment longer and may have flavors added (such as bergamot in the case of Earl Grey blend). Regardless they all are sure to do your body good.
Another interesting tea fact: Tea is the second most widely consumed drink in the world. Only plain water is consumed more. Got tea? Tea does a body good!
© 2004 Larry Forsberg. All rights reserved.
Articles posted on this Web site are for personal use only and remain the property of Larry Forsberg, L.Ac.
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