About Tea > Tea and Health

It is said that tea started out as a medicinal drink. Ever since the seventeenth century when the use of tea spread, there have been speculations about good and harmful effects of tea on human health. The amount of caffeine in tea is about half of that in coffee.

Much research has proven the antioxidant properties of tea. This is helpful in combating premature aging. Recently it was found that regular intake of tea helps fight cavities by weakening the cavity causing bacteria streptococcus mutans. It is also shown that tea drinkers have a higher bone density. The flavonoids in tea seem to more than compensate for the effect of caffeine in calcium excretion. Tea is also believed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research conducted in the Netherlands showed that those who drank more than four cups of tea per day reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease by 69%. Green tea is also believed to help increase metabolism and help reduce weight. It is found that tea compounds fight cancer by inhibiting the cancer causing tnox enzyme.

One of the most effective ingredients of tea is probably its social aspect, which helps the mind, which in turn definitely has an effect on body functions. Tea preparation generally takes some time and the tea is usually consumed in congenial social or in a quiet home atmosphere.