Tea

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TEA TYPES OF TEA AND THEIR BENEFITS

WHAT IS TEA? drink treasured by emperors, warriors, poets, holy men and revolutionaries, as well as all the unsung heroes of everyday life. For nearly 5,000 years this fascinating plant has been a source of medicine, meditation, adventure, congregation, and creative expression.

Tea is the second most consumed drink in the world, surpassed only by water. An often-surprising fact to tea novices is that all teas come from the same plant.

The scientific name of this versatile plant is Camellia sinensis (it’s actually related to the lovely camellia flowers seen in botanical gardens and landscapes). Camellia sinensis is a sub-tropical evergreen plant native to Asia but now grown around the world. The tea plant grows best in loose, deep soil, at high altitudes, and in sub-tropical climates. So, in short, “tea” is anything derived from the Camellia sinensis plant.

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TEA IS WONDERFUL FOR YOU!

Tea is a magical and mysterious drink that produces an extraordinary mood of enjoyment, relaxation and attentiveness.

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REASONS FOR CONSUMING HERBAL TEA 4

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Herbal teas are loaded with antioxidants that are helpful for neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress – one of the chief reasons for cancer, protect our bodies with some much-needed hydration. They also help us to fight against infection and nausea.

Drinking teas is a wonderful way to support the body through detoxification and it can refresh and revitalize your cells. You can also make a combination of any two or three teas.

To make any medicinal tea, let steep for at least 5-10 minutes, and then consume or make into iced tea.

WHY DRINK TEA? • Rich source of antioxidants catechins that fight free radicals damage and oxidative stress • Fluoride present in herbal tea improves oral health and prevents cavities • Vitamin D present in herbal tea improves bone strength • Antioxidant EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) recovers heart health after heart attack and stroke.

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TYPES OF TEA AND THEIR BENEFITS 6

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GREEN TEA The “wonder herb” Green tea is called the “wonder herb” because it has various health benefits, it is one of the lesser processed teas, therefore: • It’s high in antioxidants, specifically catechins. Catechins help fight cell damage • the presence of potent antioxidants called polyphenols helps to reduce free radicals.

• It reduces the chances of cancer and prohibits the formation of tumors too.

• It is really beneficial to our health because it lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

• It strengthens our immune system and helps fight against tooth decay and different viruses and also lowers blood pressure.

• It reduces bad cholesterol and although there is caffeine in it, which boosts metabolism and aids in weight loss, green tea can have a relaxing and calming effect.

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GINGER TEA It has so many amazing healing properties Ginger increases our energy and also acts as a stimulator. It helps to digest our food and to control problems like nausea. The presence of anti-inflammatory properties makes it really helpful to Arthritic patients.

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• When it comes to allergies and colds, its natural antihistamine is a boon.

• Ginger’s anti-inflammatory abilities can soothe the stomach, relieve sore muscles, and lessen the strength of menstrual cramps.

• Drink it to ease motion sickness.

• And of course we are all familiar with ginger’s natural kick, which makes it a great flavor booster even in small amounts.

PEPPERMINT TEA Those who have been suffering from heart problems must avoid drinking peppermint tea because it might deteriorate your health It is a soothing tea made from the fragrant herb Peppermint.

• It reduces the problems of vomiting, motion sickness and nausea.

• It strengthens our immune system and gives our body protection against mild coughs, mild asthma, and clearing of congestion, mild aches and chronic pain.

• The oil and menthol found in peppermint can have a therapeutic effect, acting as a decongestant and an anti-inflammatory.

• Also helps to suppress the appetite.

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CHAMOMILE TEA A word of caution to allergy sufferers though, the chamomile plant is a relative of ragweed Chamomile is one of the best known popular herbs which is used all over the world, it is becoming quite popular in North America.

• It aids to reduce our stress and helps to digest food.

• It secures peaceful sleep and reduces the problems of insomnia.

• It can also soothe puffy eyes and be used as an anti-bacterial mouthwash.

• It is an excellent all-natural skin bleach, it lightens your complexion and renders it a healthy glow naturally.

• This magic potion is a powerhouse of antioxidants that help you fight acne and breakouts. It also works wonders to eliminate acne scars.

• It helps maintain blood glucose levels and therefore it helps in controlling diabetes mellitus symptoms.

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LEMON BALM TEA It belongs to the mint family, but has a lemony scent hence its name • It is really beneficial to our health and effective to reduce stress and calm nerves.

• It helps to control thyroid problems and lowers insomnia and anxiety.

• It increases the capacity of our memory and refreshes our mood.

• It lowers the problems of stomach, digestive system and flatulence.

• It can also help with the common cold and other respiratory issues.

• It alleviates digestive problems, such as an upset stomach and gas, and also works well for painful ailments like a headache or toothache.

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HIBISCUS FLOWER TEA Hands down, Hibiscus is a favorite tea choice to cool off with during the summer • Hibiscus flower Tea is made from dried hibiscus flowers.

• It helps to reduce hypertension, cholesterol and blood pressure.

• The presence of anti-oxidants in hibiscus tea gives us protection against cell-damaging free radicals.

• It is also used in Zinger and Sorrel Tea. • In addition to being refreshing, hibiscus also has properties that help lower blood pressure, especially for those with diabetes.

• It is naturally high in vitamins, like vitamin C, and acts as a natural diuretic.

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DANDELION TEA It is popular because it acts as a diuretic to stimulate digestion Dandelion Tea is made from the plant’s leaves and flowers. It contains immense vitamins and minerals.

• It lowers fluid retention and provides soothing pleasure to pain and swelling caused by arthritis.

• It improves our digestive system and liver function.

• The root is used medicinally to treat hepatitis, jaundice and dyspepsia.

• Dandelion tea lessens hot flashes and combats the formation of kidney stones.

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CINNAMON TEA The super spice of the herb world Consider it if you’re interested in lowering cholesterol, fighting viruses, increasing your antioxidants or alleviating systems of arthritis.

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• It has many health benefits, and it is really easy to prepare.

• It is extremely beneficial for weight loss.

• It enhances our bodily strength to fight against viruses and also helps to control blood sugar.

• It becomes even more effective when it is blended with honey.

ROOIBOS TEA Also called Red Bush Tea Comes from South Africa. It is naturally caffeine-free and contains two bioflavonoids called rutin and quercetin. Both of these compounds block the release of histamine (the chemical our bodies produce in response to allergens)

• It is one of the most popular herbal teas worldwide.

• It is good for our health due to the presence of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

• It has an incredible distinct flavor, plus reduces stress and lowers the problems of insomnia.

• It may also have benefits for skin irritations and contain cancer fighting properties.

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A CUP OF TEA MAKES EVERYTHING BETTER

DESIGNED BY: ZAH IRA P. PINTO PALACIOS