Health Benefits of Green Tea

What is Green Tea?

Unbeknownst to many, green tea actually comes from the same plant where

normal tea is obtained. Scientifically, it is known as Camellia Sinensis. In fact, it is the

same tea but it is processed differently. The normal black tea is obtained by fermenting

the tea leaves. This fermentation changes its color and flavor, while raising the level of

caffeine and tannin in it. On the other hand, in the case of Green Tea, the tea leaves are

dried or slightly steamed but not fermented. This is what makes it look green when it’s

brewed.

Health Benefits of Green Tea

The health benefits of green tea are primarily due to its antioxidant properties

that come from its caffeine, Catechin Polyphenols and Theonine content. The major

health benefits stemming from antioxidant effects are listed below.

Anti-Aging: 

The free radicals created in the body are responsible for corroding the body in

various ways, one of which we see as the signs of aging and the related symptoms. The

main job of antioxidants is to neutralize the oxidants or free radicals present in the body

and green tea is very rich in antioxidants. The Catechin Polyphenols present in green

tea are hugely responsible for the antioxidizing effects, the most powerful among them

being the Epigallocatechin Gallate. Therefore, regular consumption of green tea can

effectively delay the signs and symptoms of aging.

Stimulating: 

One of the primary reasons for the popularity and consumption of all kinds of tea

by human civilizations is its stimulating effect. This effect, again, is due to the Caffeine

and Tannins present within the tea leaves. Caffeine & Tannins, despite their potentially

adverse effects on health in the long run, act as very powerful stimulants. That is why a

cup of tea makes you feel fresh and highly energized. Tea is an easy and ideal solution

to counter fatigue, laziness, sleepiness and lack of energy, and to improve blood

circulation. This is why it is so popular with a wide variety of people in various industries,

including professionals, housewives, students, and anyone else who has ever felt a bit

drowsy during the day!

Immunity Boosting:

Research shows that people who regularly drink green tea do not fall victim to

common bacterial and viral infections as easily as those who do not add green tea to

their diet. The message is clear. Green Tea boosts the strength of the immune system.

The Catechins present in green tea prevent bacteria and viruses from attaching

themselves to cell walls in order to infect them. These Catechins also counter the toxins

released by microbes. This antimicrobial property also protects you from bad breath,

dysentery, diarrhea, tooth decay, indigestion, flu, cough & cold, and colitis, all of which

are caused, in some way, by microbial & fungal action.

Astringency: 

This is yet another powerful benefit of green tea. Astringent substances trigger

contractions in muscles and tissues, while toning up muscles and skin. Even if you do

not wish to drink green tea, a simple, daily mouthwash with green tea can cause

sufficient contraction in your gums to keep them firm and tight on the teeth, thus

preventing loosening and loss of teeth. You can also wash your hair with green tea and

feel it grow stronger and healthier every day.

Anti-carcinogenic: 

Apart from causing premature aging, free radicals are also responsible for

causing certain types of cancer. The Catechins present in green tea neutralize these

free radicals, prevent formation of carcinogens like nitrosamines and reduce the risk of

cancer for people who regularly consume green tea. Green tea is now being clinically

used and prescribed as a home remedy to aid in the prevention of cancer, particularly

for those patients at high risk for cancer in the colon, rectum, pancreas and intestines.

Reducing Cholesterol: 

Green tea has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels to some

extent, probably due to its alkalinity.

Cardiac & Arterial Health:

Certain components in green tea prevent thickening of the blood, thereby

reducing chances of Arterial Sclerosis, Thrombosis, as well as Cardiac and Cerebral

Strokes.

Anti-diabetic: 

If not taken with sugar, the alkaline nature of green tea helps to reduce the blood

glucose level. Moreover, the antioxidant and astringent qualities of green tea ensure

good health and better functioning of the pancreas. Improving the function of the

pancreas means a more efficient and regulated secretion of insulin and the subsequent

improvement  in decomposing and absorbing of sugar. This increase in effective

functions can help prevent the onset of diabetes.

Weight Loss: 

Believe it or not, but green tea also helps people lose weight by enhancing the

rate of metabolism, thereby promoting a faster consumption of the fat storage of the

body. Recently, green tea has replaced many other beverages in the western world as

its helps in weight loss, and obesity is still a chronic problem in many places. Drink

a cup or two of green tea every morning and you are bound to lose a few pounds of

excess weight over a week or so.

Stamina & Endurance Booster: 

You can prove this quality to yourself quite easily. Just have a cup of hot green

tea after some rigorous exercise and within no time, you will be ready for a few more

sets. Furthermore, it effectively counters muscular pain due to overexertion of muscles.

Although green tea isn’t as widely publicized for western athletes due to the dominant

energy drink companies in the market, if you visit Japan & China, you will see that green

tea is the premiere beverage used by practitioners of martial arts and various other

sports.